Signs That a Dog Is Sick or in Pain

Even though a dog is unable to communicate with its owner through words, it can still convey when it is sick using outward signs that an owner can watch for and interpret. A dog may exhibit behavioral symptoms mixed with physical indications that something is amiss. According to the American Kennel Club, any dog that suddenly suffers from disorientation, a seizure, shaking, muscle weakness, staggering, paralysis or difficulty breathing needs immediate medical treatment because something serious or life threatening could be wrong.

  1. Lethargy and Lack of Appetite

    • Watch for any decrease in the dog's activity level. If a dog is suddenly lethargic and sleeping excessively there could be something wrong physically. A dog may also exhibit grouchiness if the owner or a family member tries to coax the dog up to play or participate in an activity.

      Lethargy is often accompanied by lack of appetite. A dog that suddenly ceases to eat or only nibbles at its food and then goes and lays back down may be in pain or suffering from an uncomfortable illness.

    Coughing

    • Coughing can often be the first indication of something serious, such as heart disease, according to Web MD. Watch the dog closely to see if it is having any problems breathing. Is the dog wheezing? Listen closely to determine if the dog's lungs appear clear or congested. Look at the dog's nose for any sign of discharge which could be a symptom of an infection such as kennel cough.

      A dog's normal respiration rate is 15 to 20 breaths per minute. A dog that is rapidly panting for no apparent reason should be taken promptly to the veterinarian for an immediate evaluation.

    Urination, Vomiting or Diarrhea

    • If a dog begins to suffer from excessive urination it may indicate a serious problem. A dog that appears thirsty all the time with decreased urination may also be suffering from a disorder. If the dog begins to have accidents in the house that are unexpected and unexplained it could also be a symptom of a problem that the pet is trying to hide.

      All dogs experience diarrhea at some point in their lives. Dogs are notorious for raiding food they should not eat and they often pay the price with a minor gastric upset. Ongoing diarrhea or stool that is is streaked with blood should be immediately evaluated by a veterinarian.

      Vomiting is natural on rare occasions but persist vomiting can indicate a health problem such as parasites or something more serious. Vomiting yellow bile can also be a sign. If the dog continues to vomit, a veterinarian will need to perform a complete physical to determine the probable cause.

    Weight Loss

    • Weight loss can be a subtle indication of something amiss that sneaks up on an owner. Many owners do not notice if their dog loses a few pounds and many simply do not see it until the weight loss has become extreme. A dog may continue to eat a healthy amount of food but be subtly losing weight. Any unexplained weight loss needs to be promptly evaluated. Cancer can often cause weight loss but have few other symptoms until the malignancy is widespread.

      Parasites also can cause weight loss with few other symptoms. The dog may maintain normal eating habits and be active even with a heavy parasite infestation.