Common Dog Illnesses

Catch common dog illnesses in the early stages by paying attention to changes in your pet's behaviors and appearance. Some canine health issues and tips for avoidance are discussed below.

Fleas make their meal from your dog's skin. Do not take your dog for walks in wooded areas or tall grass where fleas make their home. Daily brushings with a flea comb will help rid your dog of fleas before they enter home.

Ticks can also carry illnesses and like to embed themselves in the undercoat of your pet, eventually attaching to the dog's body. Unfortunately, tick removal can be painful. Keep your dog out of the woods, parks with thick undergrowth, and shaded areas. Be sure to check your dog regularly for ticks so that they can be removed before they have a chance to attach.

Ear mites are yet another parasite that can plague your canine. If you notice that your dog is frequently scratching his ears, look inside for black or brown residue which would indicate an ear mite invasion.

Various types of worms can also cause health issues. Common worms include heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms. Since some types of worms can infect humans, get treatment promptly if you suspect worms.

Allergies are also seen in dogs. A bite or sting can trigger reactions along with common human environmental allergens.

While you can avoid common dog illnesses to some extent, your dog could contract a parasite or develop allergies despite your best efforts. If this happens, prompt treatment will help keep your pet as healthy as possible.

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