Dogs are such an important part of our lives. They provide us with companionship, love, and laughter. In return, we try to care for them the best way we can. However, despite our best efforts, some things are just beyond our control. And in this case, we’re talking about your puppy’s health. The tricky part is that sometimes it’s hard to tell when our pets are unwell since they can’t speak to us and tell us what’s wrong. But there are certain signs your dog may be sick that you can look for that may indicate your pet needs to see the vet.
Signs Your Dog May Be Sick and Needs to See the Vet
Lethargy
Of course, every dog is different and there will be days when they are simply tired from playing hard or exploring their surroundings. However, if you notice a significant change in energy levels, maybe your puppy is sleeping more than usual, they aren’t as playful, or generally seem uninterested in things, it may be a sign that something is wrong. The best thing to do is to check in with your veterinarian. They will be able to give you a better idea of what may be going on and whether or not your furry friend needs to be seen.
Lack of Appetite
Another common sign that something may be wrong with your dog is a loss of appetite. If your dog is eating less than normal or refusing their food altogether, this could be a cause for concern. Again, there may be occasional days when your , but if this becomes a consistent thing, it’s worth talking to your vet. They will know how to best approach the situation and determine if an underlying health issue is at play.
Change in Bathroom Habits
If you notice that your dog is urinating or defecating more frequently than normal, this could indicate a problem with their kidneys or liver. Alternatively, if your puppy has trouble going to the bathroom or hasn’t gone in several days, this could signify constipation or an obstruction in their intestines. In either case, it’s important to seek professional help so that the proper treatment can be administered.
Weight Loss/Gain
Unexplained weight loss or gain can also indicate a health problem in pets. If you notice that your dog has lost a significant amount of weight without changing their diet or activity level, this could signal diabetes, cancer, or another chronic illness.
On the other hand, if your pet starts putting on weight without any lifestyle changes, this could point to hormonal imbalances, thyroid problems, or Cushing’s disease. As with the other signs on this list, any noticeable change in weight should prompt a trip to the vet so that the cause can be identified and treated accordingly.
Strange Lumps & Bumps
Lastly, watch for strange bumps or lumps on your dog’s body. These could indicate tumors or cysts that may need to be removed surgically. Even if the growths don’t seem to be causing any discomfort for your pet, it’s always best to have them checked out by a professional just to be safe.
These are just a few signs that your dog may be sick and needs to see the vet. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list and many other things could be wrong. If you have any concerns about your pup’s health, the best thing to do is to consult with your veterinarian.
Adopt a Puppy From The Barking Boutique
If you’re looking to adopt a puppy, The Barking Boutique can help! We’re here to make sure all our pups find a loving forever home. Contact us here to learn more or visit our stores in West Michigan and Buffalo, NY.
