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Our pets can’t tell us how they feel, so it’s up to us to pay close attention to changes in their behaviour, body, and daily habits. Even small differences can signal that something isn’t right. Be alert and watch for these signs. Acting early can make a big difference in your furkid’s recovery and comfort.
A healthy dog usually has a good appetite and a steady water intake. So when your pup suddenly refuses food, eats significantly less, or seems uninterested in treats they normally love, it could be a red flag. If they’re skipping meals for more than 24 hours, it’s time to take it seriously.
Drinking much more water than usual can also signal trouble. It may be something mild like a tummy upset or more serious, such as kidney disease, diabetes, or a urinary tract infection. On the flip side, if your dog is drinking less water and seems weak or dehydrated, that’s also a concern. In either case, if the change lasts more than a day or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to call your vet.
Most dogs are naturally curious and active—especially when it comes to walks, toys, and food. If your usually curious pup is suddenly sleeping a lot more, appears uninterested in playtime, or moves more slowly, take note. This could be due to fatigue, pain, fever, infection, or even issues with the heart or lungs.
Lethargy that comes on quickly or lasts more than a day is never something to ignore. Trust your instincts—if your dog “just doesn’t seem like themselves,” it’s always better to get a professional opinion than to wait and hope it passes.
Occasional vomiting or a loose stool may not be a big deal, especially if your dog ate something different or unusual. But when vomiting or diarrhea happens more than once, contains blood, or continues for over 12 hours, it could be serious. These symptoms might be caused by infections, parasites, food poisoning, or other underlying health issues.
Off-the-shelf products like Furment Postbiotics PLUS Gel With Kaolin for Dogs & Cats (Pink) can be used to remedy digestive disorders like diarrhoea and food poisoning, however, this should not replace veterinary advice and treatment.
Dehydration is a major concern here. Dogs can lose fluids quickly, especially smaller breeds or puppies. Look for signs of dehydration like dry gums, sunken eyes, or a lack of energy. Monitor your dog’s water intake. Call the veterinarian if you notice signs of dehydration or your dog drinking less water than usual.
Coughing or sneezing isn't unusual, especially if there’s dust or pollen in the air. But if your dog is coughing persistently, wheezing, or seems to struggle with breathing, it could mean something more serious like kennel cough, heart disease, allergies, or even a blockage.
Laboured or rapid breathing requires immediate vet attention. Also, listen for unusual sounds like honking (often linked to tracheal collapse) or wet, phlegmy coughing (a possible lung infection).
Habits If your dog is suddenly peeing more, straining to go, having accidents indoors, or if there’s blood in their urine or stool—these are all signs that something might be wrong. They could have a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, kidney problems, or even diabetes.
Constipation is another thing to watch. If your dog hasn’t pooped in more than 48 hours or is straining, it could be due to dehydration, poor diet, or even a blockage. On the other end, soft stools with mucus or worms can signal parasites or digestive disease.
A really bad breath can mean more than just a smelly mouth. It’s often the first sign of dental disease, which can cause pain, gum inflammation, and even infection that spreads to the kidneys or heart.
Other clues? Red or swollen gums, bleeding, drooling, pawing at the mouth, or refusing to chew on toys or food. Dental pain can also lead to weight loss over time.
With dental health, routine dental care is key for prevention. Regular brushing with dog toothbrush and toothpaste will help to reduce tartar and freshen breath.
A dog’s coat is a great indicator of overall health. A shiny, smooth coat often means they’re healthy inside and out. But if your dog’s fur is dry, flaky, patchy, or falling out, it could mean allergies, skin infections, parasites like fleas, or even stress.
Constant licking, chewing, or scratching—especially in one area—shouldn’t be ignored. It could lead to open wounds or “hot spots” that may get infected. Sometimes food allergies are the cause, other times it’s environmental (like pollen or dust mites). An anti-itch spray like this Tropiclean Oxymed (Anti-Itch Medicated) Soothing Spray For Cats & Dogs may help to reduce swelling, redness and dandruff, while providing immediate relief from itching and allergies.
All wounds must be cleaned to prevent infection, and always use a pet-safe product like this MicrocynAH Wound and Skin Care Hydrogel for Dogs & Cats. The product must be safe if licked or ingested. If you notice signs of infection, please see the vet immediately.
Has your dog gained or lost weight without any change in diet or exercise? Sudden weight gain might mean fluid retention, hypothyroidism, or metabolic issues. On the other hand, rapid weight loss can be caused by cancer, diabetes, parasites, or problems with the liver or kidneys.
It’s also worth weighing your dog monthly at home, especially if they’re older or have ongoing health conditions. A pet scale or simply lifting them and checking on a human scale can give you a rough idea.
Moving If your dog suddenly starts limping, refuses to climb stairs, or struggles to stand after rest, these could be signs of pain, injury, or joint disease. This is common in older dogs with arthritis, but can also affect young, active dogs who sprain or tear a muscle.
Check for swelling, sensitivity, or unusual posture. If the limp doesn't improve in a day or two, or your dog cries out in pain, see the vet. Avoid walks or play during this time to prevent further injury.
Sometimes, the first clue your dog isn’t feeling well is a shift in their behaviour. Are they suddenly grumpy, clingy, withdrawn, or hiding? Do they growl when touched in certain areas? These changes could be their way of expressing pain, discomfort, or confusion.
Other signs may include pacing, restlessness, or barking at odd times. Older dogs may even show signs of confusion or get lost in familiar places—this could be early signs of canine cognitive decline.
Trust your instincts. You know your dog best. If something feels off—even if there’s no obvious symptom—it’s always worth checking in with your vet.
Some symptoms in dogs require immediate veterinary care. Waiting even a few minutes can be life-threatening. If your dog has pale, blue, or white gums, choking, collapses, becomes unresponsive, or shows signs of severe pain, don’t wait. Administer first aid (if you are familiar with the procedures) or go straight to the vet. Persistent, continuous vomiting or diarrhea, trouble breathing, or seizures are also serious red flags. These signs can point to internal bleeding, organ failure, poisoning, or other urgent issues. In any of these cases, don’t wait. Fast action could save your dog’s life.
Your dog depends on you to notice when something isn’t right. By staying alert to changes in appetite, mood, energy, mobility, bathroom habits, and the condition of their skin or coat, you can catch early signs of illness before they become serious. Trust your instincts! If your dog isn’t acting like themselves, even in small ways, it’s worth checking in with your vet. And if you notice any red flags, don’t wait. Acting fast can make all the difference in keeping your dog healthy and safe.
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