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4 Examples of Non-Infectious Dog Diseases

Dogs > Infections / Disease > 4 Examples of Non-Infectious Dog Diseases

also see Diseases Caused by Bacteria

also see Infectious Diseases of Dogs

also see Blood Pressure

also see Congenital Disorders and Diseases of Dogs

also see Diabetes in Dogs

Non infectious diseases come in a variety of forms, ranging from easily treated, to conditions that need lifelong treatment and maintenance. A dog with a hampered immune system, or poor diet, is more likely to get an illness such as cardiovascular disease or arthritis. Keep an eye on your dog for the following non infectious dog diseases.

Heart Disease and Your Dog

Diseases that affect the heart and circulatory system prove highly challenging for dogs. Heart disease is normally classified as any abnormality of the heart. Some of these cardiac conditions are due to congenital defects or hereditary issues. Other heart conditions can be prevented or managed better with medication and/or lifestyle changes.

Examples of cardiovascular disease dogs may get:

High blood pressure
Clogged arteries
Lung malfunction
Congestive heart failure

Symptoms of canine cardiac problems:

Wheezing
Labored breathing
Agility problems
Abdominal swelling
Decreased appetite or weight loss

What to Know About Hypertension

Hypertension is also called high blood pressure. It can lead to stroke and heart failure, kidney renal disease and hardening of the arteries. A vet will check your dog's vital signs during an exam. Your dog's blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood his heart is pumping related to the resistance of this blood flow in his arteries.

Causes of high blood pressure:

Chronic kidney disease
Elevated sodium levels
Fluid retention
Increased heart rate
Overworked circulatory system
Cushing's disease
Tumors in the adrenal glands

Symptoms of high blood pressure:

Depression
Side effect of an underlying disease, such as an endocrine disorder
Sudden blindness
Behavioral changes

Diagnosis includes:

Gathering the medical history of your dog and getting a complete examination by a veterinarian. An examination includes the following:

Blood pressure is measured in dogs via a Doppler flow device or an oscillometric device
Evaluation of the nervous system
Inspection of the eyes
Monitoring the heart and kidneys
Taking the arterial blood pressure

Non Infectious Dog Disease: Diabetes

One disease that requires vast lifestyle changes in pets is diabetes. Unlike an infectious disease, a condition such as diabetes can develop gradually. There are two forms of this disease:

Diabetes insipidus: This disease is caused by lack of antidiuretic hormone in dogs. It is noticeable when your dog has heavy urine and excessive thirst.
Diabetes mellitus: When your dog has a deficiency of the hormone insulin in his body. Ultimately, he will not be able to digest sugars.

Any gender or breed can have diabetes. But it usually affects middle-aged dogs, females, and small breeds like Dachshunds, Cairn Terriers and Beagles.

Signs of canine diabetes:

Excessive urination
High blood sugar
Hunger
Thirst
Weight loss

Another Condition for Dogs: Arthritis

A degenerative joint disease like arthritis is more common in dogs who already have hip dysplasia, muscular dystrophy or other congenital issues. While some canines are born with arthritis, most develop it after other injuries or problems occur, such as:

Fractures
Ligament injury
Increased weight gain
Joint problems
Old age

Signs your dog may have arthritis:

Behavioral changes: disinterest in playing
Difficulty standing
Favoring one limb; limping
Lethargy
Overly tired
Sore joints
Unwillingness to climb stairs

Relieve the pain of arthritis with:

Heated bed or blanket
Orthopedic bed
Ramps in the house
Supplements/medication
Additional Non Infectious Dog Diseases
Atopy or air borne allergies
Dog seizures
Eye problems: hereditary cataracts
Food allergies
Heredity disorders
Inflammatory CNS disease: the non infectious form is likely from a breed-specific disorder
Primary seizures: juvenile epilepsy
Skin disorders/allergies

also see Why Canine Diabetes Symptoms Require Further Testing

also see Dog Heart Failure: Identifying Possible Symptoms

also see Lyme Disease in Dogs: High Risk Areas in the US

also see Preventing Canine Heart Disease Through Weight Reduction