The most common dog and puppy diseases range from easily treatable skin ailments to life-threatening infections. Be sure to pay close attention to your new puppy or dog when you first bring it home and observe any symptoms or unusual behaviors. If your dog has spent time around other dogs in a kennel or shelter setting, it may be more susceptible to disease. Take your dog to a veterinarian for vaccinations and regular exams to ensure your dog's lasting health.
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Distemper
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Probably the worst common dog disease, distemper has no cure or treatment and can result in death. However, you can have your puppy or dog vaccinated to prevent infection. Symptoms of distemper include nasal discharge, respiratory congestion, weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting, fever and eye irritation or discharge. Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your puppy or dog is infected with distemper.
Ringworm
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Ringworm is not a worm but a common fungal infection affecting the skin. Symptoms include itching, hair loss and scaling or flaking skin. The term "ringworm" derives from the circular (or ring) shaped sores the infection causes. Treatment may include veterinarian-prescribed medication or over-the-counter creams designed to treat ringworm specifically. Be aware that ringworm can also infect humans, so wear gloves and wash your hands often when in contact with your dog during a ringworm infection.
Canine Cough
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Sometimes called "kennel cough," canine cough affects a dog or puppy's respiratory system. It often shows up in dogs that have stayed at a kennel, boarding house or shelter in close proximity to other dogs. Symptoms include coughing and a runny nose. Treatment may include veterinarian-prescribed antibiotics.
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