Too Many Treats? How To Tell When Your Dog Is Under The Weather

Worried that your dog isn't feeling well? Dogs are resilient, but there are some sure signs that they are under the weather and need you to consult with their vet. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms and clues that it is time to visit your vet:

Changes in appetite. Dogs are creatures of habit so any changes in appetite can be a sign that something is wrong. Pay attention to how much water your dog is drinking, too, as decreased thirst may be a sign of stress while excessive thirst could point to kidney failure.

Weight loss or gain. It is always good to report any weight loss or weight gain to your vet. Gaining weight could be an issue with hormones while weight loss may be an early sign of serious illness, like cancer.

Mood changes. Keep an eye out for changes in your pet's mood like isolative behaviors or aggression. These can also indicate that your pet is feeling poorly and needs medical attention.  

Lethargy. If your dog is acting lethargic and low-energy, it could be that they don't feel well. Some dogs may seek out a quiet spot away from the humans when they are sick. 

A fever. If your dog's temperature is above 103-degrees, seek medical attention. Temperatures over 106-degrees could be life-threatening.

Shedding. If you notice that your dog is shedding more than usual, this could be a sign of stress or anxiety—which could come from not feeling well. Let your vet know.

Eating grass. When a dog has a sour stomach, you may find them eating non-edible things like grass. Typically, they will vomit this up and often it makes them temporarily feel better. If this persists, inform your veterinarian.

A limp. If your dog is limping yet you don't know of any recent injuries, this could be a sign of an internal issue and warrant veterinary attention.

Swelling near the stomach. If your dog has swelling around their stomach, contact your vet. This could be contributed to something as simple as an upset stomach though it could be an indication of a blockage of some kind.

Don't let your pet's symptoms go by unnoticed; if you notice any of these issues, it merits contacting your vet. Many of these are benign symptoms that can be indicative of a sour stomach but others can be a clue of something far more serious. Rather than risk it, seek advice from your veterinarian to rule out other issues and illnesses. For more information, contact local professionals like Animal House Veterinary Hospital.