Dog symptoms may be of several types; some indicate a temporary problem that can go away without treatment, while other symptoms are urgent and require immediate veterinary help. There are a few symptoms you should never ignore including sudden collapse, seizures, bleeding or visible injuries. However, there are also a few more subtle symptoms that also need attention.
1. Breathing Problems
When your dog has breathing problems, as the lack of sufficient air can have fatal consequences. Breathing problems may indicate a heart problem, lung disease, a respiratory obstruction or infections.
You should also look for auxiliary symptoms such as heavy breathing, lethargy, coughing or panting.
2. Extended Periods of Diarrhea
Diarrhea may indicate a light stomach problem, but if this condition persists for more than 2 days, you should get veterinary help. Diarrhea may cause severe dehydration.
You should get help; however, most of the times the diarrhea can be solved with some medications or home remedies. In some cases, the vet will perform additional tests to see if the diarrhea is not caused by a severe underlying condition.
Let your vet know if the diarrhea is chronic.
3. Vomiting
Occasional vomiting may signal indigestion or that the dog has ingested garbage. However, if your pet vomits several times per day, you should consult a vet. Vomiting can be caused by intestinal obstruction, liver problems, kidney damage, pancreatitis or thyroid problems.
If your dog vomits several times per hour, he may be poisoned and this requires immediate attention.
4. Increased Thirst
An increased thirst may be identified by monitoring the water bowl and the frequency of filling the water bowl.
If you notice that you dog drinks more water than usual, he may have diabetes, poisoning, kidney or liver disease.
5. More Frequent Urination
The increased thirst may result in more frequent urination. This is a symptom that shouldn’t be ignored as it may indicate a urinary infection, diabetes or kidney problems.
However, in dogs, the urination may not be easy to monitor, especially if your dog is used to urinate in the yard.
6. Refusal to Eat for Over 48 Hours
The lack of appetite may not be a severe problem, if the dog starts to eat after 1 day of not eating. However, if the dog refuses to eat for over 48 hours, this may signal a serious problem. Consult your vet to find the problem and get some nutrients in your pet.
7. Inability to Urinate or Defecate
If your dog strains to urinate or defecate, this may be a warning sign and the dog may be affected by kidney problems, poisoning or urethral blockage.
8. Tarry Stools and Blood in the Stool
Black, tarry stools that are darker than usual may signal colitis or a problem with the anal gland.
Blood in the stool should also be an alarming sign and may be caused by a bleeding ulcer, tumors, parasites or ingested foreign objects.