We all want our dogs to live long, happy and healthy lives. But sometimes, no matter how well we care for our companions, they can face a number of serious health challenges. From life-threatening conditions like parvovirus to more common issues like arthritis and obesity, our furry companions are vulnerable to a range of diseases throughout their lives.
As dog owners, we often rely on our instincts to know when something’s off with our pets, and many of us do have a sixth sense. However, knowing the specific signs to watch for can make all the difference between early treatment and serious complications. In this post, we’ll cover some of the most common dog diseases that every Aussie pet owner should be aware of so you can give your dog the best chance at a long and healthy life.
Different Breeds, Different Health Challenges
Just like every dog has its own personality, different breeds face unique health challenges and risks, too. Genetics, physiology, and body shape all play a role in determining what conditions a dog might be more prone to. Understanding these breed-specific risks can help you keep your furry friend healthy and catch any potential issues early.
Genetic Disorders and Selective Breeding
Selective breeding for specific traits can sometimes increase the likelihood of genetic disorders in certain breeds. For example, large breed dogs like Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, and Boxers are more likely to develop dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that weakens the heart muscle and makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. Keeping an eye on your dog’s energy levels, breathing, and any coughing can help catch this condition early.
Body Shape and Its Impact
Breeds with unique body shapes often experience specific health issues. Brachycephalic breeds—like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs—are at a higher risk for airway problems due to their shortened snouts. These issues can lead to breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or after exercise or playing.
Similarly, certain breeds, particularly those with wrinkly or furry faces, may develop eye problems like cherry eye or entropion (where the eyelids roll inward). These conditions can be uncomfortable and may need treatment.
When it comes to small breeds, like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers, patellar luxation (when the kneecap slips out of place) is something to watch out for. It can make them limp or have trouble moving around. They are also more likely to suffer from tracheal collapse, a condition affecting the windpipe. You may notice a distinctive “goose honk” cough when they’re excited or pulling on the leash. Regular check-ups are essential, as these issues can progress quickly.
On the other hand, large dogs like Labradors can experience a similar issue called lateral luxation, where the kneecap slips outward instead of inward. These conditions can cause discomfort and might require veterinary care or even surgery to keep your dog moving comfortably.
Bloat is another serious issue for large breeds, particularly as they age. This condition causes a dog’s stomach to fill with gas and twist, leading to a swollen, hard belly and signs of distress. It requires immediate veterinary attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
How Age Affects Our Dogs' Health
The care our pets need changes throughout their lives, so understanding how their health evolves at each stage can make a big difference.
Puppy Health:
The first few months with a new puppy are always full of excitement, but they also come with a few important health considerations to ensure they have the best foundation.
While puppies get some protection from their mum’s milk early on, this natural defence begins to wear off after six weeks. To keep your pup safe, they’ll need their first vaccinations between six and eight weeks old, followed by boosters every three to four weeks until they’re about 16 weeks old.
This is essential because your puppy is at risk of developing a range of serious but preventable diseases. In fact, during their first six months, puppies are particularly vulnerable to illnesses like parvovirus – a life-threatening, highly contagious virus that causes gastrointestinal issues.
Adult Dog Health:
As your dog grows into adulthood, their health routine shouldn’t slow down. Even if they seem perfectly healthy, adult dogs should have yearly check-ups to help catch any issues before they become serious. Common health concerns in adult dogs include allergies, ear infections, obesity, and dental problems.
Senior Dog Health:
Most dogs enter their senior years around age seven, and as they get older, their health needs become even more important.
Did you know that 14-35% of dogs over eight years old develop canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), AKA doggy dementia? Symptoms can include confusion, forgetfulness, wandering at night, and a change in sleep patterns. As these signs can be subtle, it’s important to watch for any changes in behaviour and provide special care to help them stay comfortable and engaged.
Senior dogs also face body changes like arthritis, mobility issues (such as stiffness or difficulty getting up), and an increased risk of conditions like cancer, heart disease, and kidney problems. Vision and hearing problems are also common, with cataracts being a concern in older dogs, sometimes requiring surgery to improve their quality of life.
Regular veterinary check-ups become even more important as dogs age, as they help catch these issues early, manage chronic conditions, and ensure your senior dog remains comfortable and happy throughout their golden years.
9 Common Diseases in Dogs
There are a range of diseases and health concerns our pets face throughout their life. Some might only cause some mild discomfort, whereas others are more serious. However, knowing what to look out for and how to manage common dog diseases is essential to keeping them happy and healthy. Here are some of the most common diseases in dogs Aussie owners should know.
Fleas and Ticks
Fleas and ticks are a nuisance for both you and your companion. Not only do they make everyone itchy, but they can also transmit serious diseases. In Australia, the Paralysis Tick and the Brown Dog Tick are among the most dangerous and can be life-threatening.
Signs to Watch For:
- For ticks, watch out for constant scratching, itching, and redness on the skin. It can also cause infection if left untreated.
- Paralysis ticks can affect your dog’s ability to move, breathe, and function normally, and if left unchecked, they can quickly deteriorate your dog’s health.
- The Brown Dog Tick is known to transmit diseases like Ehrlichiosis, which can cause fever, lethargy, and even organ failure if untreated.
What You Can Do:
Preventative treatments are your first line of defence when it comes to ticks and fleas. Regular flea and tick treatments like shampoos, tablets, or topical solutions can help protect your dog. Always check them for ticks after outdoor activities and keep their environment clean to reduce the risk of infestation.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that poses a serious threat to both dogs and owners. It’s most commonly contracted through contaminated water sources, which means your dog is at risk if they love swimming in lakes and puddles or drinking from stagnant water.
Symptoms to Look For
- Fever
- Muscle pain and stiffness
- Vomiting
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
What You Can Do
If left untreated, it can cause irreversible damage to the liver and kidneys. Vaccination is the best way to protect your dog from leptospirosis. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to contaminated water, get them checked by a vet immediately.
Heartworm Disease
Heartworm is a serious and potentially fatal parasitic infection that can cause significant damage to a dog’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes, which carry the larvae of the heartworm parasite. When an infected mosquito bites your dog, the larvae are introduced into their bloodstream, eventually growing into adult worms that can reach lengths of up to 30 centimetres!
Heartworm disease is particularly dangerous because it often doesn’t show symptoms until the infection is quite advanced. This means that by the time a dog is exhibiting signs, significant damage to the heart and lungs may have already occurred.
Signs to Watch For
- A persistent cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
- Swollen Abdomen
What You Can Do
- · Heartworm Prevention: The best way to protect your dog from heartworm disease is to make sure they take regular heartworm prevention medication. These medications come in different forms, including chewables, tablets, and even injections, and are typically given on a monthly basis.
- Heartworm Testing: Even if your dog is on a regular heartworm prevention regimen, it’s important to have them tested for heartworms annually. Regular testing helps detect any potential heartworm infections early, allowing for prompt treatment before the disease becomes severe or life-threatening. Early detection can also help your vet determine whether the current prevention plan is effective or if any adjustments are needed.
- Prompt Veterinary Care: If your dog shows signs of heartworm disease, it’s essential to get them to the vet immediately. Heartworm treatment typically involves a series of injections to kill the adult worms, but this process can be complex and requires close monitoring due to potential complications. The earlier the disease is detected, the easier it will be to manage and the better the chances for recovery!
Parvovirus (Parvo)
Canine Parvovirus, or Parvo, is a highly contagious and potentially deadly viral disease, especially when contracted by puppies.
The virus is known for its rapid onset and severe symptoms, making it one of the most dangerous diseases for dogs. Parvo spreads primarily through contact with infected feces, but it can also be transmitted through contaminated surfaces, water bowls, food, and even human clothing. This makes it incredibly easy for dogs to contract the disease if they are not properly vaccinated.
What to Look For
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Severe diarrhoea
- Fever
- Dehydration
What You Can Do
- Vaccination: The most important thing you can do to protect your dog from Parvo is to ensure they are properly vaccinated. Puppies should start their vaccination series as early as 6 to 8 weeks old, with follow-up boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Adult dogs should receive annual or tri-annual boosters, depending on their lifestyle and risk factors. The Parvo vaccine is part of the core vaccines recommended for all dogs.
- Avoid Contaminated Environments: If your dog is unvaccinated or has not completed their full vaccination schedule, avoid places where Parvovirus is more likely to be transmitted, such as dog parks, pet stores, or boarding facilities. Parvo can survive in the environment for months, so be cautious when bringing your dog into public spaces!
- Proper Hygiene: To prevent your dog from being exposed, clean and disinfect your home, yard, and pet’s belongings regularly. Be especially thorough in cleaning areas where infected dogs have been, including bowls, toys, and bedding.
- Isolation of Sick Dogs: If your dog shows signs of Parvo, it’s essential to isolate them from other pets to prevent the virus from spreading. Parvovirus is highly contagious, and even people who come into contact with infected dogs can unknowingly spread the virus to healthy dogs.
- Veterinary Care: If you suspect your dog has Parvo, contact your vet immediately. Treatment for Parvovirus typically involves supportive care such as intravenous fluids to address dehydration, medications to control vomiting and diarrhoea, and sometimes antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. While there is no cure for Parvo, early intervention can significantly improve your dog’s chances of survival.
Canine Distemper
Canine Distemper is a serious viral disease that can affect a dog’s body in multiple ways, including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological systems. It is highly contagious and spreads primarily through sneezing or coughing or through direct contact with infected animals or their bodily fluids.
Distemper can affect dogs of all ages, but young puppies and unvaccinated dogs are particularly vulnerable.
Signs to Look For
The symptoms of Canine Distemper can appear quickly and vary depending on which systems of the body are most affected. The disease progresses through several stages:
- Initial Respiratory Symptoms: A persistent dry or moist cough is often one of the first signs of distemper. Your dog might seem to have difficulty breathing or may produce more mucus than usual. Additionally, Watery or thick nasal discharge is common. This discharge may become yellow or green as the disease progresses, indicating an infection.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: As the virus spreads through the gastrointestinal system, dogs may begin to vomit or experience severe diarrhea. This can lead to dehydration, which is dangerous if left untreated.
- Neurological Symptoms: As the virus affects the nervous system, more serious symptoms may develop, including fine, rapid muscle twitching, particularly around the eyes or face. Seizures are also a sign of Distemper and can indicate severe neurological damage. If your dog experiences a seizure, immediate veterinary care is needed.
- Paralysis: As the disease advances, it can lead to partial or complete paralysis, especially in the limbs, making it difficult for your dog to walk or move normally.
- Behavioural Changes: Distemper may cause changes in your dog’s behaviour, including confusion, disorientation, and lethargy. Some dogs may appear unusually aggressive or fearful.
- Eye Issues: Distemper often causes a discharge from the eyes and can lead to inflammation, redness, and discomfort. This can sometimes lead to permanent damage to the eyes.
What You Can Do
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for Distemper, but with early veterinary intervention, symptoms can be managed. Vaccination is essential to prevent your dog from contracting this dangerous disease.
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is another tick-borne illness that can affect your dog’s joints, causing pain and swelling. It’s caused by a bacteria carried by ticks and, if left untreated, can lead to kidney damage. While Lyme disease is more common in certain parts of the world, it’s a risk for dogs everywhere due to the widespread presence of ticks.
Signs to Watch For
- Lameness
- Fever
- Joint swelling
- Fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Difficulty Breathing
- Vomiting
- Abnormal urine production
What You Can Do
- Tick Prevention: Prevention is the most effective way to protect your dog from Lyme Disease. There are a variety of options available, including tick collars, oral medications, and topical treatments. Make sure to follow your vet’s advice on the most suitable treatment for your dog’s needs.
- Regular Tick Checks: After your dog has been outside, particularly in wooded or grassy areas, thoroughly check them for ticks. Look for small dark spots in their fur, especially around the ears, paws, and underbelly. Ticks need to be removed quickly (within 24 hours) to reduce the risk of Lyme Disease transmission.
Canine Kennel Cough
Kennel Cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection. It is often spread in places like boarding kennels, dog parks, grooming salons, or even during walks if your dog comes into contact with other infected dogs.
This infection can be caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, most commonly Bordetella bronchiseptica. While Kennel Cough is generally not life-threatening, it can make your dog uncomfortable and, in some cases, lead to more severe complications if not properly managed.
Symptoms to Look For
- A persistent, dry cough that sounds like honking
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Lethargy or Decreased Activity
- Mild Fever
What You Can Do
While Kennel Cough is generally a mild illness that often resolves on its own, it’s still important to keep a close eye on your dog’s condition and take the right steps to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Rest and Quiet Time
- Cough Suppressants
- Antibiotics (If Necessary)
- Lots of Hydration and Nutrition
- Keep Them Isolated To Reduce The Risk Of Spreading The Illness
Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common health problems seen in older dogs, and it’s something every dog owner should be aware of. As dogs age, the cartilage in their joints naturally begins to break down, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. This wear and tear can lead to osteoarthritis, which can make your dog feel uncomfortable and limit their ability to do the things they love, like playing, walking, or running. While arthritis is most common in senior dogs, it can also affect younger dogs, especially those with joint injuries or certain breeds predisposed to joint problems.
What to Watch For
- Difficulty Getting Up
- Slower Movement
- Reluctance to Play or Exercise
- Limping or Favouring One Leg
What You Can Do
- Regular Low-Impact Exercise: Regular, gentle exercise such as short walks or swimming can help maintain joint mobility and strengthen the muscles around the joints. Be sure to avoid high-impact activities that could strain the joints further.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight puts additional stress on your dog’s joints, making arthritis symptoms worse. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight will reduce pressure on their joints and help manage their arthritis.
- Pain Relief & Anti-inflammatory Medications: Consult with your vet about pain relief options for your dog. Your vet may also recommend joint supplements to support joint health.
- Comfortable Resting Areas: Give your dog soft, supportive bedding to make resting easier on their joints. Memory foam or orthopedic dog beds can help reduce pressure and offer relief when they are resting.
- Joint Supportive Treatments: In some cases, your vet might suggest treatments like acupuncture or physical therapy to help manage pain and improve mobility. These are most beneficial in combination with other management strategies.
- Regular Vet Check-ups: Since arthritis can worsen over time, it’s important to have regular check-ups with your vet. They can help monitor your dog’s progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Your vet might also recommend x-rays to get a clearer view of your dog’s joint health.
Diabetes
Diabetes in dogs, just like in humans, occurs when the body cannot regulate blood sugar (glucose) properly. This is typically due to either insulin resistance (when the body doesn’t respond to insulin as it should) or insulin deficiency (when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin). Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels, and without it, glucose levels can rise to unhealthy levels, leading to serious health issues.
Signs to Watch For
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Increased Hunger
- Weight Loss
- Fatigue
- Cloudy Eyes (Diabetes can cause cataracts, leading to cloudy eyes and possible vision problems)
What You Can Do
To prevent diabetes or help manage it if your dog is diagnosed, a healthy lifestyle is essential.
- Balanced Diet: Provide your dog with a nutritious and balanced diet that’s suitable for their age, weight, and activity level. A high-quality dog food with controlled levels of sugar and carbohydrates will help maintain their blood sugar levels.
- Monitor Weight: Overweight dogs are at higher risk of developing diabetes. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight through diet and exercise is one of the best preventive measures.
- Routine Vet Check-ups: Regular vet visits are also important for early detection of diabetes. If your dog is showing any of the signs mentioned, it’s crucial to see a vet for a blood test and diagnosis. Your vet will provide a tailored treatment plan based on your dog’s condition.
Keeping Your Pet Healthy
As a pet owner, it is important to be aware of the risks your companions may face. Early detection and prevention make the most important difference in how well treatments work and can reduce the need for stressful and expansive treatments.
Preventing diseases takes more than one approach. Your dog needs regular vaccinations, protection from parasites, and a safe environment to stay healthy. The good news is that you’re not alone! Our team at The House Call Vet is here to help keep your furry friend happy and healthy. With a range of preventative services, from regular checkups and dental care to vaccinations and more, we’re dedicated to making veterinary care as easy and stress-free as possible for both you and your pet.
