Puppy health issues and symptoms
Puppies are more susceptible to health problems than adult dogs due to their immature immune system.
Common signs of illness
The following symptoms are potential indicators that your puppy may have an illness, if you spot any issues early it's worth consulting your vet.
1. Eyes, mouth, and nose
Symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, heavy panting, or difficulty breathing can all be a sign of illness. Keep an eye out for bad breath, increased drooling, and dry, cloudy, or red eyes.
2. Behavior
You may notice lower activity levels in your puppy, or less interest in their usual activities. This may include increased sleep or other behavioral changes.
3. Skin changes
Pay close attention to any changes in your puppy's skin, such as dryness, lesions, or redness.
4. Eating and digestion
Your puppy may exhibit reduced appetite or weight loss, digestive upsets, or stools that contain blood, mucus, worms, or undigested food. You may also notice excessive drinking or urinating.
5. Joint stiffness
Joint stiffness or difficulty getting up or climbing stairs can often be a sign of illness in puppies
Common puppy illnesses
Here, we look at some of the health issues and common illnesses your puppy might encounter in more detail.
- The stress of moving to a new home.
- A new diet, especially if it’s introduced too quickly.
- Eating something they shouldn’t such as house plants, rubbish, toys, or dirt.
- Parasites such as worms.
- Infectious diseases such as parvovirus.
- Diarrhea (possibly with blood in it)
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
- Severe weight loss or anorexia
If your puppy has diarrhea, it’s best to make a note of the date, time, and consistency so you can monitor it and share the details with a vet. If it’s extreme or doesn’t clear within a day or two, always consult your vet.
Parvovirus is a highly contagious, viral illness. It causes severe gastroenteritis, often leads to bleeding complications, and can even be fatal.
Find a vet
If you are concerned about your puppy's health, it is always advisable to consult a vet.
Puppy health
Learn all about your puppy's health and well-being and how to take care of them.
Puppy health