While cancer and arthritis remain the leading cause of death amongst senior dogs, there are various other common dog diseases as well as infections that affect these loyal animals all over the world.
Take a look at the common diseases in dogs and how to identify them in their early stages. This will help you decide if there is anything wrong with your pooch. In case there is a problem, you can take the required action in due time.
1. Canine Coronavirus
An infection that affects the small intestines, the coronavirus is common in both wild as well as domesticated dogs. It is an extremely contagious disease. However, the intensity and adverse effects on the dog’s health vary from case to case. In some dogs, the infection might clear up on its own, whereas others might require proper treatment under a skilled veterinarian. Canine coronavirus normally causes little to no harm to senior dogs, but it can be fatal for puppies.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually do not occur in old dogs. In puppies and young dogs, the following might be observed:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tiredness and dehydration
2. Canine Tracheobronchitis (Kennel Cough)
Kennel cough or canine tracheobronchitis is an upper respiratory infection. It is caused by a combination of virus and bacteria. The disease is highly transmittable and can be life-threatening in puppies. Though it might not be fatal for older dogs, it can cause severe harm to their lungs and windpipe as well as their voice box.
Symptoms
- Dry cough or ‘honking’ cough
- Persistent, nonproductive cough
- Nasal discharge
- Loss of appetite (in some dogs only)
- Fever
3. Canine Distemper
Canine distemper is a dangerous disease in dogs that is caused by a virus. It affects their respiratory, nervous, and gastrointestinal systems. This virus is airborne. Hence, it can be contracted by any dog that comes in the vicinity of an already affected dog. The best prevention against this disease is to get your pooch vaccinated. However, if you suspect your dog might have this contracted this disease already, contact your vet via email or telephone. This is because heading to the clinic directly can infect other pets in the facility.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Coughing
- Loss of appetite
- Tiredness
- Runny nose and red, watery eyes
- Panting
- Diarrhea and vomiting
4. Canine Hepatitis (Rubarth Disease)
Also called Rubarth Disease, canine hepatitis is a potentially fatal disease. Your dog can easily contract this disease from the excretions of an infected dog. Puppies are at the greatest risk of catching this disease. However, getting them vaccinated at the right time will protect them for this virus forever.
Symptoms
- High temperature
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Swollen or enlarged liver
- Signs of jaundice like weight loss, pale stool and dark urine (occur when the disease has spread to kidneys and/ or liver)
5. Canine Parainfluenza
Canine Parainfluenza Virus (CPIV) is an infectious disease in dogs that affects their respiratory system. The virus is commonly found in kennels, dog shelters or any other place where a large number of dogs are kept together. Antibiotics are almost always effective in treating CPIV in dogs.
Symptoms
- Cough
- Low-grade fever
- Nasal discharge
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
Now that you know the common diseases in dogs, keep a vigilant eye on their symptoms. If your dog has been acting different lately, is not taking proper meals or seems ill in any other way, consult your vet immediately.
