Ever wondered what are the common illnesses that greatly affect our dogs? Much like us, humans, dogs can be susceptible to a range of illnesses that can affect their health and happiness. Whether you are a new dog owner or a seasoned one with years of experience, it is always beneficial to learn more about the health problems that your dog might suffer from during their lifetime. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of canine health and explore five common illnesses that dogs face.

1. Dental Health

Dental issues are a common concern for dogs, with problems like plaque, gingivitis and tartar topping the list. When left untreated, these issues can lead to infections and inflammation, potentially progressing to the more severe and painful condition known as periodontal disease. To ward off dental diseases and safeguard your pup’s oral health, it is essential to establish a proactive dental care routine.

Symptoms:

• Foul smelling breath
• Loose teeth
• Change in appetite
• Drooling
• Refusal to eat
• Discoloured teeth and gums
• When chewing, one side of the mouth is preferred

Maintaining your pet’s dental health is essential to guarantee their overall well-being. Regular teeth cleaning is a fundamental part of preventive care, it helps to maintain their dental hygiene and prevent the accumulation of plaque and tartar. Occasionally, in situations with stubborn plaque and tartar, dental scaling may be required. Additionally, in cases of severely decayed teeth, extractions will have to be performed by your veterinarian to prevent further pain and complications. 

2. Parasitic Infection

Dogs can suffer from internal and external parasites, such as fleas, ticks, worms, and mites. Regular preventive measures, like using flea and tick medications and deworming, can help protect your dog. 

Symptoms:

• Diarrhoea and/or bloody stools
• Distended belly
• Scooting around on their bottoms
• Lethargy
• Presence of small tapeworm that look like rice grains in its stool
• Loss of weight
• Change in eating habits

Consulting your veterinarian is the first step in preventing parasitic infection in dogs. They are able to recommend reliable flea and tick medications that can effectively deter and kill parasites. It also helps to maintain a clean living environment by regularly vacuuming and washing your dog’s bedding to help reduce the risk of infestations. Regular deworming is also highly advised, especially for puppies, to prevent internal parasites that can be detrimental to your dog’s health. With proper preventive measures in place, you can significantly reduce the risk of parasitic infections and ensure your pup’s continued good health.

3. Ear Infection

Ear infections are among the most frequently encountered health issues in dogs, especially those with large, floppy ears. These infections can affect dogs of all breeds and ages, and they often result in discomfort and distress for our furry companions. Typically, ear infections in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, water trapped in ear canal after bathing, or the presence of foreign objects. These infections rarely go away on their own, therefore it is important to seek medical advice from your veterinarian. 

Symptoms: 

• Scratching and pawing at the ears
• Scabbing or crusting around the ear
• Redness in ear canals
• Hearing loss
• Rubbing the ears constantly against floor or furniture

Consistent ear care and early intervention are key to keep your dog’s ears healthy and infection-free. You can regularly inspect your dog’s ears for signs of redness, swelling or discharge, as early detection can make all the difference. When bathing your dog, be careful not to allow water into the ear canal and always wipe their ears dry after. In cases of severe ear infections, immediately consult your veterinarian to get the necessary medications to prevent infections from escalating. 

4. Skin Allergies

Many dogs suffer from skin allergies, which can result from various factors, including environmental allergens, fleas or food. With Singapore’s tropical climate, dogs are exposed to various environmental allergens, including pollen, dust mites, and mould spores, which can trigger skin reactions. Additionally, food allergies also contribute to skin issues in dogs, with many commercial dog foods containing ingredients that some dogs may be sensitive to.

Symptoms: 

• Hyperpigmentation 
• Itching and redness
• Thickened skin
• Flaky, crusty or scaly skin

Dog owners should remain vigilant and consistently monitor their pups for any indications of skin allergies. To start, maintaining a clean living environment and regular grooming can help minimise exposure to potential allergens. Furthermore, owners should also be mindful of potential dietary allergens and consult a veterinarian for guidance on an appropriate diet for your pup to prevent any negative reactions. In cases where allergies do flare up, soothing baths with medicated shampoos or oatmeal may help alleviate itching and provide comfort to your pup.

5. Obesity

Obesity is an escalating health issue for dogs globally, often caused by the combination of overfeeding and insufficient physical activity. This can be attributed to the habit of offering excessive portions of food or regularly indulging dogs with table scraps rich in fat and sugar content. Moreover, a sedentary lifestyle with the lack of physical activity will make matters worse. Other factors that can play a role in weight gain include breed, age and reproductive status.

Symptoms: 

• Ribs, spine and abdomen cannot be seen
• Reluctance to go for walks or tendency to fall behind
• Excessive panting
• Tiredness and constant fatigue
• Requiring assistance to get in and out of vehicles

Preventing obesity through a balanced diet, portion control and regular exercise is crucial to ensuring the long-term health and well-being of our pups. 

Just like any other living beings, dogs are prone to getting sick from time to time. Being clued up about dog illnesses means we can all do more to protect our beloved pets from getting these diseases in the first place, helping them to live healthier and happier lives. Whenever you do have any doubts about your dog’s health, it is best to seek professional guidance by consulting your veterinarian.