As being a dog owner, the most responsible thing you can do is to take proper health care of your beloved pet. Being aware of the common dog diseases, their symptoms and prevention can help you to treat or prevent them earlier. Thus, this article will be dealing with some of the most common diseases that afflict dogs.
Here is a list of common dog diseases:
1. Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is a respiratory disease which can be caused by several viruses and bacteria namely, Canine adenovirus, Canine parainfluenza virus and Bordatella bronchiseptica. It is a highly contagious disease and the symptoms include high pitched, dry, hacking cough. Kennel cough can be best prevented by keeping your pet dog away from stray dogs and cats.
2. Arthritis
Arthritis is an inflammation in a joint caused by either injury or obesity or genetics. It can affect dogs of any age group. Your dog may show the symptoms of reluctance to go out for walks, climb stairs, jump or run, sleeping more, increase in weight gain, mood change and stiff joints. Arthritis in dogs can be prevented with regular exercise and healthy diet.
3. Periodontal disease
This is the most common mouth disease among dogs. Periodontal disease is the inflammation and loss of gum tissues and teeth. It is caused by the accumulation of food particles and bacteria in the crevices between the gums and teeth forming plaque. The symptoms may include bad breath, drooling, loose teeth, tooth loss, bleeding gums, Gum recession and difficulty in eating. Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do to prevent periodontal disease in your dog.
4. Corona virus
Corona virus is a highly contagious intestinal disease that causes diarrhea in puppies. It mainly affects puppies than adults. The symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and lack of appetite. Keeping your puppy away from infected ones and having a good sanitation practices are the best preventive measures you can take.
5. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is the most common hormone deficiency in dogs that occur when insufficient thyroid hormones are produced. The symptoms may include weight gain, hair loss, high blood cholesterol and anemia.