Being aware of dog symptoms that require immediate attention is important for any dog owner. You should notice any changes in your pet’s behavior and observe any symptoms that are alarming. Some of the most urgent dog symptoms include: shaking and panting, vomiting and diarrhea, fever, weight loss, lack of appetite, scratching, foul odor and depression.
Shaking and Panting
Shaking and panting are symptoms that may point to several severe problems including shock, internal injuries, poisoning, hypoglycemia or a heat stroke. All these conditions need immediate attention and may be fatal if treatment is not administered in a timely manner.
Elevated Fever
Fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit may indicate the presence of an infection or a heat stroke. The heat stroke needs to be treated immediately, otherwise the dog may suffer from seizures and may even enter coma. Infections may not be severe; however a vet needs to establish the seriousness of the infection and administer antibiotics if need be.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea may not always be an urgent symptom, but if these symptoms are chronic, they point to a severe condition (i.e. canine distemper).
If there is blood in the vomit or in the stool, this may also be an alarming symptom.
Severe Weight Loss
Severe weight loss may indicate cancer, diabetes or that the dog has a metabolic disease. A periodical weighing of your dog is necessary to make sure he stays in good health.
A severe weight loss may also be visible on the dog’s body: you may notice that the ribs are showing and the dog may also have a lot of loose skin.
Lack of Appetite
The lack of appetite may be linked to a number of diseases. If your dog doesn’t eat for 1 to 2 days, this may not be a severe issue; however, if your dog doesn’t eat for several days in a row, you should see a vet.
Lumps on the Skin
When you groom or massage your dog and feel lumps or swellings on the skin, you should consult a vet. This may only be a benign tumor or a harmless cyst; however, the tumor may also be cancerous.
Behavior Changes
A sick dog may be depressed and display an unusual behavior. He may be more aggressive towards you or other dogs also.
Foul Odor
If there is foul odor coming from your dog’s mouth, ears or skin this may point to an infection, a tooth abscess or the presence of ear mites. A tooth abscess may cause severe pain and the infection may enter the blood stream.
The ear mites cause a lot of discomfort and may also result in other secondary infections or hearing loss, if left untreated.
Severe Scratching and Biting
If your dog displays symptoms such as severe scratching and biting of his skin and paws, you should take him to the vet. The dog may suffer from a skin infection, allergies or have parasites; if the condition is not detected, the dog may cause severe wounds that can get infected.