Dog Diseases: Protecting Your Dog from Common Health Issues
Understanding dog diseases and their prevention is essential for every dog owner. Dogs, just like humans, can suffer from various health conditions, ranging from mild infections to serious diseases that require immediate veterinary care. Being proactive in recognizing symptoms and preventing these dog diseases can help keep your dog healthy, happy, and safe. You can find out more information on caring for your dog on our Dog Care page.
🐶 Understanding Common Dog Diseases
Dog diseases can affect any part of your dog’s body, from their skin and bones to their internal organs and nervous system. These diseases can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, poor nutrition, and genetics. While some dog diseases are preventable, others may require treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
You can jump to our alphabetical Dog Diseases Directory below, which explains a bit about each dog disease.
🔆 Common Infectious Dog Diseases:
Infectious dog diseases are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can be contracted from the environment or other animals. Here are a few of the most common infectious diseases that affect dogs:
🔹 Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects puppies. It attacks the gastrointestinal tract and causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and in some cases, death. Puppies are most vulnerable to parvovirus, but adult dogs can also contract it if they have not been vaccinated.
🔹 Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is another viral disease that affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems of dogs. It is often fatal and spreads through airborne particles from an infected dog’s cough or sneeze. Symptoms include fever, coughing, vomiting, and seizures. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent distemper.
🔹 Kennel Cough
Kennel cough, or canine infectious tracheobronchitis, is a contagious respiratory infection that causes coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. It’s often contracted in environments where dogs are in close contact, such as boarding kennels. While it is typically mild and resolves on its own, more severe cases may require antibiotics or other medications.
🔹 Common Non-Infectious Dog Diseases
Not all dog diseases are infectious. Many health problems in dogs stem from non-infectious causes, such as genetic predisposition, poor diet, and aging.
🔹 Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to arthritis and joint pain. Large dog breeds, like German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers, are more prone to hip dysplasia, though smaller dogs can also be affected. Early detection and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage the condition.
🔹 Heart Disease
Heart disease in dogs is one of the dog diseases that is often caused by factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, or a genetic predisposition to conditions like heart murmurs or congestive heart failure. Symptoms of heart disease include coughing, fatigue, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the abdomen or legs. Regular vet visits and a healthy lifestyle can help manage heart disease in dogs.
🔹 Diabetes
Diabetes in dogs is a condition in which the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. It is most common in older dogs and certain breeds, including Poodles and Dachshunds. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, and weight loss. With proper management, such as insulin therapy and dietary changes, dogs with diabetes can live a relatively normal life.
🔆 Preventing Dog Diseases
While some dog diseases are genetic or unavoidable, many can be prevented or managed with proper care and regular veterinary check-ups. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce the risk of your dog contracting certain dog diseases:
🔹 Vaccinations
One of the most effective ways to prevent infectious dog diseases is through vaccinations. Regular vaccinations protect dogs from serious diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, rabies, and kennel cough. Puppies typically receive a series of vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age, with booster shots given as they grow older.
🔹 Regular Vet Visits
Routine vet check-ups are crucial for detecting early signs of diseases and managing chronic conditions. During a vet visit, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam, administer necessary vaccinations, and test for common health problems. Early detection of health issues can make treatment more effective and prevent the disease from worsening.
🔹 Proper Nutrition and Weight Management
A balanced diet is essential for maintaining your dog’s health and preventing obesity, which is a contributing factor to many health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Feed your dog high-quality food that meets their nutritional needs and adjust their portion sizes based on their age, activity level, and breed.
🔹 Flea and Tick Prevention
Parasites like fleas and ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Regular flea and tick prevention treatments can help protect your dog from these potentially serious health problems. Speak to your vet about the best flea and tick prevention plan for your dog based on their environment and lifestyle.
🔹 Mental and Physical Exercise
Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial to your dog’s overall health. Daily walks, playtime, and training activities can help prevent obesity, joint problems, and behavioral issues. Exercise also helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to better overall well-being.
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Dog Diseases Directory
This alphabetical directory explains about each of the dog diseases.
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Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism): Caused by a deficiency of adrenal cortex hormones. Symptoms include weight loss, fatigue and vomiting.
Allergies: Dogs can be allergic to a variety of things, including foods and pollen. Symptoms can include runny eyes, itching, and skin rashes.
Alopecia: A genetic disorder that results in thin hair and hair loss.
Amyloidosis: The abnormal deposit of protein in the body’s organs.
Arthritis: Arthritis is the wearing down of cartilage and loss of fluid that surrounds the joints, caused by over-use, injury or age. Arthritis can also be inflammatory, which is caused by auto-immune disorders, viruses or infection.
Autoimmune Disease: This refers to a wide variety of diseases that are caused when the immune system attacks the body’s own cells and tissue.
Axonal Dystrophy: A rare neurological problem that affects the muscles and movement in young Ibizan Hound puppies. Symptoms from a few litters led to the naming of the dog disease, but it has not been seen in the breed in many decades.
Bladder Infection: Bladder infections can be caused by a variety of infectious agents. Symptoms can include pain and blood in the urine.
Bladder/Kidney Stones: Stones can be formed in the bladder or kidneys from minerals contained in the urine. Pain may be present, and severe blockage can occur.
Bleeding Disorder: There are several causes of bleeding disorders in dogs, which can result in internal or external bleeding. (see Von Willebrand’s)
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation/Tortion): Distention of the stomach, whereas the contents cannot pass into the intestines, giving a bloated look to the loin area.. It can be caused by large amounts of food or water. The stomach can eventually twist, requiring emergency veterinary care.
Breathing Problems: Problems with breathing can be caused by allergies but can also be caused by the shape of the muzzle in short-nosed breeds such as the Bulldog.
Cancer: There are many types of cancer. It is generally the result of cells in the body that multiply and spread in an abnormal manner.
Canine Epileptoid Cramping Disease (Spike’s Disease): Symptoms can include staggering, dizziness, exaggerated stretching, trembling, muscle contractions, abdominal pain, falling/unable to rise. Dogs are aware of their surroundings during episodes. May be confused with epilepsy. Symptoms may or may not progress.
Cardiomyopathy: A condition which causes abnormalities in the heart muscle.
Cataracts: Cataracts can be attributed to several causes, including the aging process, injury or heredity. (See juvenile cataracts.)
Cerebellar Ataxia: A progressive disease of the brain. Symptoms include an unsteady gait.
Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (Storage Disease): A hereditary disease which affects the nerve cells. Typically, symptoms of extreme fear, and unsteady gait begin at 18 months of age.
Cherry Eye: Prolapse of the third eyelid, appearing as a red swollen mass in the eye.
Chondrodysplasia: See dwarfism.
Collapsed Trachea: A problem where the trachea partly collapses, causing coughing.
Collie Eye Anomaly: This disease causes the eye to develop improperly. A small percentage of affected dogs go blind from the disease.
Congenital Esophageal Achalasia (cardiospasm, mega-esophagus, ectasia, dilated esophagus): A condition involving faulty muscles of the esophagus that can usually be detected in young puppies. Symptoms include regurgitating food shortly after eating.
Copper Toxicosis: An inherited disease in which the body stores and releases too much copper. It leads to liver disease.
Corneal Dystrophy: A degenerative dog disease of the cornea of the eye.
Cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCL): The tearing of a ligament in the stifle joint.
Cranial Muscular Atrophy: A disease that affects the muscles of the head, causing weakness.
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: A bone disease that produces excess bone along the jaw, causing problems opening and closing the jaw.
Cyst: A lump in the skin that is filled with a soft material. Some cysts remain small; however, they often become larger in size.
Cystinuria: The formation of cystine stones in the bladder and kidneys.
Deafness: Many things can cause deafness in dogs, such as ear infection or injury, certain drugs, old age or heredity. One or both ears may be affected.
Degenerative Myelopathy: A nerve disorder that causes progressive weakening of the rear legs.
Demodectic Mange: Cause is a microscopic mite. In puppies, the first sign is usually hair loss around the eyes and mouth. The symptoms often fade as the puppies’ immune systems mature and are able to resist the mites. There is also a more serious form that causes hair loss in patches over the body. Veterinary treatment is needed. There may be a hereditary tendency.
Dermatitis: An inflammation of the skin that can be caused by allergies, contact with an irritant, or internal causes.
Dermatomyositis: A disease which produces a skin rash and muscle weakness.
Dermoid Sinus: cyst-like growth along the neck or back that becomes impacted with debris.
Diabetes: A dog disease in which the body does not produce, produce enough of, or properly use insulin. Causes include diet and heredity.
Digital Hyperkeratosis: A thickening of the outer layer of skin of the foot pad caused by faulty keratin production.
Disc Disease: A degeneration of the vertebrae and surrounding support structures of the spine.
Distichiasis: Abnormal growth of extra eyelashes that can sometimes irritate the eye.
Dry Eye: See Keratoconjuncivitis sicca.
Dwarfism: A disorder that causes stunted growth. It is typically hereditary.
Ear Infections: Ear infections can be caused by a variety of culprits, including bacteria and yeast. Redness, odor, discharge and pain are typical symptoms.
Ectopia Cilia: Stray eyelashes that emerge through the eyelid and can interfere with the eye and cause pain.
Ectropion: The eyelid droops away from the eye, making the eye prone to infection.
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A defect of the connective tissue that causes skin and joint problems.
Elbow Dysplasia: A progressive, deteriorating problem in the elbow whereas the joint breaks down and cannot move efficiently. Cause is thought to be a hereditary tendency. Over-nutrition of puppies and fast growth in larger dogs are thought to contribute to poor formation of the joints. Minor dysplasia may go unnoticed, but pain is present in more severe cases.
Entropion: The eyelid turns inward, causing irritation. May require surgery.
Epilepsy: This term refers to symptoms of repeated seizures over time. If the cause can be found, then the epilepsy is secondary. If the cause cannot be found, it is called idiopathic epilepsy. Some cases of idiopathic epilepsy may be hereditary in nature.
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficienty (EPI): A disfunction of the pancreas which causes dogs to lose the ability to digest protein. Loose stools and weight loss result.
Eyelash Disorders: Eyelashes sometimes grow inward and rub on and irritate the eye.
Eye Infection: Can be caused by bacteria or virus. Discharge may be present. Consult your veterinarian for diagnoses and treatment to prevent possible loss of vision. Clear, watery discharge may be a sign of allergies. Some breeds are more prevalent to tear staining around the eyes.
Familial Nephropathy (FN): An inherited kidney disorder caused by deposits of protein within the kidney.
Fanconi Syndrome: In this disease the renal tubes of the kidneys fail to properly absorb nutrients. It is treatable if caught early.
Fibrocartilaginous Embolic Myelopathy (FCE): Causes paralysis due to cartilage-like materials that lodge in blood vessels of the spine.
Glaucoma: The term used for eye diseases that cause blindness through damage to the optic nerve.
Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy (GCL): A progressive dog disease of the brain and spinal cord.
Hashimoto’s Disease: An immune system disorder that affects the thyroid gland.
Heart Arrhythmia: An irregular beating of the heart muscle that may occur sporadically.
Heart Disease:There are many types of heart disease, and it can affect the valves or the muscular structure of the heart. Some forms are a result of viruses or other diseases. Others are present at birth and some can be hereditary.
Hemangiosarcoma: A cancer that originates in the blood vessels and spleen.
Hemolytic Anemia: Hemolytic anemia is a condition where the red blood cells break up, resulting in fewer red blood cells. There is a variety of causes including viruses and parasites.
Hemophilia: Abnormal bleeding caused by a deficiency in the clotting agents of the blood.
Hereditary Nephritis (HN): A serious hereditary kidney disease.
Hernia (Umbilical): If the hole where the umbilical cord is attached when a puppy is born does not eventually close, the organs and tissue can protrude. Some hernias can be hereditary in nature, and they can also be caused by injury.
Hip Dysplasia: A progressive, deteriorating problem in the ball-and-socket joint of the hip whereas the ball does not fit and move efficiently in the socket. Cause is thought to be a hereditary tendency. Over-nutrition of puppies and fast growth in larger dogs are thought to contribute to poor formation of the joints. Minor dysplasia may go unnoticed, but pain is present in more severe cases.
Hyperthyroidism: A dog disease in which the production of thyroid hormone is above normal.
Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD): Possibly caused by an infection, this disease causes painful lameness of young dogs.
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar levels. Causes include lack of food and hormone imbalances.
Hypomyelinogenesis: Dogs are born with defective formation of myelin in the spinal cord, brain, or nerves. Puppies can have symptomatic tremors. It can be inherited or caused by nutritional deficiency or by a virus.
Hypothyroidism: A disease in which the production of thyroid hormone is below normal.
Immune Disorders: A variety of dog diseases caused by an immune system that does not function properly.
Immune Mediated SLE: See Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Immunoproliferative Small Intestine Disease (IPSID): The dog cannot properly utilize nutrients from food. This causes weight loss and diarrhea.
Intervertebral Disc Disease: The cushioning agents around the vertebrae of the spine degenerate, which can lead to rupture of the disc.
Juvenile Cataracts: A cataract of the eye that forms within the first few years of life. Some cataracts are believed to be hereditary.
Keratitus: An inflammation of the eye that can lead to ulcers.
Keratoconjuncivitis sicca (KCS) (also called Dry Eye): A lack of tears which leads to conjunctivitis and corneal scarring.
Kidney Disease: There are many causes of kidney disease including bacteria, poisoning and heredity. Damaged kidneys cannot properly perform their function, including regulating blood pressure, calcium and phosphorous levels.
Kidney Stones: See bladder/kidney stones.
Legg-Calve Perthes: A deterioration of the head of the femur (thigh bone) due to insufficient blood supply.
Lens Luxation: The lens of the eye becomes detached.
Liver Shunt: Due to a deformity, blood cannot go through the liver and bypasses it. Blood that is normally detoxified by the liver becomes full of toxins.
Lupoid Dermatosis: A disorder that causes inflammation of the skin, scaling, and itching. Areas affected include the head, legs, and scrotum. This disease may be the result of immune system disorder.
Luxated Patellar, (Slipped Stifles): In this disorder, the patellar (kneecaps) luxate (slip out of the groove). Only the hind legs are involved, and the problem can affect one or both legs. Causes include heredity and injury.
Lymphosarcoma: A cancer that affects the lymph nodes.
Mammary Tumor: A tumor that is located in the mammary (under-chest) area of female dogs.
Microphthalmia: An eye disorder where either the globe or surrounding tissue is missing upon birth.
Mitral Valve Disease: The mitral valve regulates blood flow in the heart. Disease or hereditary defect can cause damage to the valve and cause it to function improperly.
Myotonia Congenita: A muscle disorder which causes a stiff gait, difficulty getting up, and trouble swallowing.
Nictitating Membrane Eversion: The nictitating membrane is a translucent third eyelid present in dogs. It can be closed across the eye, while still maintaining vision. Sometimes, through weakness or injury, the third eyelid becomes folded, causing irritation.
Ocular Melanosis Pigment/ Pigment Dispersion Syndrome: Pigment granules in the eye clog the tear ducts and decrease the effectiveness of fluid drainage from the eyes. Increased pressure in the eyes result.
Open Fontanel: This occurs when the fontanel (soft spot where the bones of the skull join at the top of the head) does not close properly at a few months of age.
Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the cartilage of the joints due to wear and tear.
Osteochondritis Dessicans (OCD): A fracture of cartilage which leads to deterioration in a joint.
Osteochondrosis: A disease in which the bones do not grow and join properly. This can cause Osteochondritis Dessicans.
Osteosarcoma: The most common cancerous bone tumor.
Panosteitis: Lameness that occurs in puppies and young dogs. It is limited in duration and the disease eventually resolves itself.
Paronychia: An inflammation of the skin around the toenails.
PBGV Juvenile Pain Syndrome: The spinal area becomes stiff and painful. High fever may be present.
Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA): A serious heart defect that is present at birth.
Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV): A disease which affects a developing fetus’ eyes and causes deposits on the back of the lens.
Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM): An eye problem that is caused when the fetal membrane does not reabsorb completely after birth.
Persistent Right Aortic Arch: Malformed artery constricts the esophagus. Vomiting results. Surgery is required. Inherited
Phosphofructokinase (PFK): Deficiency Caused by a lack of the enzyme that metabolizes glucose into energy. Weakness, muscle cramps, lack of energy and dark urine can result.
Pigmentary Ketatitis: A dark brown pigment that grows across the white part of the eye. May cause blindness.
Progressive Neuronal Abiotrophy: A nerve disorder of young puppies that severely affects the muscles.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A slow, progressive deterioration of the retina which can lead to blindness. Believed to be hereditary.
Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE) and Protein-Losing Nephropathy (PLN): Protein and plasma is lost through a damaged gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include diarrhea and weight loss.
Pulmonary Fibrosis: A disease of the lungs that causes scarring and difficulty breathing. A dry cough may be present.
Pulmonic Stenosis: A narrowing of the valve from the heart to the lungs.
Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency: A disease that affects the red blood cells and causes anemia.
Renal Dysplasia: A condition in which a dog is born with a under-developed kidney.
Retinal Dysplasia/ Retinal Folds: Abnormal development of the retina of the eye, which can range from mild symptoms to blindness.
Sebaceous Adenitis (SA): An inflammation of the oil glands of the skin.
Storage Disease: See Ceroid Lipofuscinosis.
Sub Aortic Stenosis/Sub Valvular Stenosis: A defect of the aortic valve which partially obstructs blood flow from the heart.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): An inflammatory connective tissue disease that affects many organs.
Tetralogy of Fallot: A condition that involves four specific defects of the heart.
Thyroid Disease: See Hypothyroidism; Hyperthyroidism
Trichiasis: A condition in which the eyelashes grow towards the eyeball, causing pain.
Uric Acid Syndrome: This occurs when uric acid is excreted from the kidneys. This can cause what is termed “bronzing” (a bronze hue to the skin) and urinary stones.
Von Willebrand’s: A bleeding disorder caused by the absence of a blood clotting protein. The blood does not clot properly, and the dog may bleed profusely if cut. It can be hereditary in certain breeds but can also be a secondary problem caused by another disorder.
White Shaker Dog Syndrome: A tremor that occurs in some young small-breed dogs.
Wobblers Syndrome: A malformation of the vertebrae of the neck, which causes pressure on the spinal cord and typically results in an uncoordinated rear gait.
🔆 Seeking Help for Dog Diseases
If you suspect your dog may have a health issue or has been diagnosed with a disease, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. They can offer advice on treatment options and lifestyle changes to help manage the condition. For more information on dog diseases and veterinary care, the American Veterinary Medical Association is where vets obtain guidelines.
🔆 Conclusion: Ensuring Your Dog’s Health
Preventing dog diseases requires a proactive approach, including regular veterinary visits, vaccinations, proper nutrition, and exercise. By staying informed and taking steps to protect your dog’s health, you can reduce the risk of many common diseases and ensure your furry friend lives a long, healthy, and happy life.
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