Signs Your Dog is Sick and What to Do
Initially, signs that your dog is sick may be subtle or vague, making them easy to overlook. Your dog cannot communicate verbally, so rely on visible signs. Here's how to identify sickness in your dog and when to consult a veterinarian.
Signs Your Dog Is Sick
Contact your veterinarian for advice if you notice any of the following signs, particularly if they last for more than a day or two:
Appetite changes1
Bad breath
Odors from skin or ears
Weight loss or gain (unintended)
Lethargy
Weakness
Anxiety
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Regurgitation
Limping or lameness
Wounds or sores
Excessive drooling
Excessive thirst (increased water intake)
Frequent and/or inappropriate urination
Constipation
Incontinence
Excessive scratching
Dull, dry, or flaky hair coat
Panting excessively or frequently for unknown reasons
Nasal discharge or congestion
Pain displays, such as whimpering or resistance when a specific area is touched or action is taken2
Dizziness or imbalance
Circling
Behavior changes
Not acting like normal self
You should contact your veterinarian if you notice any signs that you deem abnormal for your dog. It's better to be cautious than to wait. In some cases, your vet may be able to tell you over the phone if something does not need to be addressed right away. In other situations, your vet may advise you to make an appointment or to go to an emergency clinic, depending on the urgency. Above all, follow your vet's advice.
Emergency Signs in Dogs
Immediately go to your veterinarian or an emergency clinic if your dog shows these or any other signs that cause concern:
Blue or very pale gums
Labored breathing3
Collapse or loss of consciousness
Unresponsiveness
Severe vomiting and/or diarrhea, especially if there is blood in it
Inability to walk
Bloated abdomen
Trying to vomit repeatedly but nothing comes up
Moderate to severe wounds
Bleeding that is profuse or won't stop
Seizures
Severe pain displays, such as crying out very loudly and excessively, pronounced limping, acting aggressive when touched, or guarding a part of the body intensely
Body temperature over 104 F or under 99 F (normal is typically 100.5 F to 102.5 F)
A sudden and extreme change in mental state or cognitive function
After any kind of trauma such as a big fall, hit-by-car accident, dog fight, or ingestion of any foreign material or toxic foods
How to Tell If Your Dog Is Sick
Determining if a dog is sick or injured can be challenging. Dogs tend to hide symptoms of illness instinctively as a form of self-defense, as showing weakness could make them vulnerable in the wild. Unlike humans, dogs do not seem to experience emotional reactions like fear of mortality, so they often behave normally even when slightly unwell.1
Since dogs cannot use words to communicate, we must rely on their behaviors and demeanor. As you know your dog best, you are likely to notice when something is wrong. However, family and friends who do not interact with your dog daily may detect subtle changes, like gradual weight fluctuations, that you might overlook.
Body Language
Initially, body language cues are often subtle, but they can provide valuable information if you observe closely. Dogs in pain might lower their heads, sit awkwardly, or have abnormal gaits. Illness-related stress may lead dogs to show appeasement gestures, like yawning or licking their lips.
Recognizing Changes in Your Dog's Behavior
You might observe changes in how your dog interacts with people, other pets, and toys. A sick dog may avoid social interactions or become easily irritated by others. They could stop playing with toys, lose interest in walks, and avoid activities they once enjoyed. You may also notice they’re less responsive to obedience commands, and they may hide or reject contact and affection.
Always contact your veterinarian for advice if you suspect your dog is sick. It is essential to find the right veterinarian and establish a good relationship with that vet so you are more comfortable calling when something comes up.
