Diagnostic Vet Questions

Diagnosing an illness in your dog is like putting a puzzle together. Your veterinarian will need as much information as possible in order to make an informed diagnosis. Assess your dog and assemble all pertinent facts before calling your dog's vet. By pre-answering possible diagnostic vet questions, you help speed your dog's diagnosis and recovery.

  1. Diet

    • In determining a diagnosis, your vet needs to know if you have changed your dog's diet recently. Introducing new foods sometimes leads to stomach upset. Has your dog stopped eating or drastically cut back in his consumption?

    Diarrhea or Vomiting

    • Diarrhea and vomiting are often indicators of illness in a dog. Stomach upset leading to diarrhea or vomiting may be an indication of parasites, allergies or something more serious such as cancer. It may also indicate that the dog has eaten something not meant for him. Is there any evidence that your trash can has been rummaged through or have you found indications of candy bar wrappers in your dog's area?

    Disposition

    • A dog that does not feel well often shows a change in his disposition. Your vet needs to know if you have noticed any personality changes such as aggressiveness or snappiness. A normally outgoing dog that suddenly prefers solitude is exhibiting a sign that something is not right.

    Pain

    • Pain is always an indication of a dog with a problem. Is the dog tender to the touch in any areas? Does he yelp, cry or whimper upon movement or contact?

    Duration

    • When did you first notice your dog was not feeling well? Did the symptoms come on suddenly or build up over a period of time? Duration of symptoms helps your vet narrow her diagnosis.

    Injuries

    • Your vet needs to know if your dog has received any injuries, such as falls, accidents or fights with other animals. Are there any obvious wounds and is bleeding involved?

    Thirst

    • Is your dog still drinking water on a regular basis or has he increased his water intake? Increased thirst may point your vet in the direction of a diagnosis. According to Dog Owner's Guide, increased thirst is a possible symptom of diabetes.

    Lethargy

    • Is your dog less active than normal or does he seem tired and depressed? Vet Info says that these symptoms may point to a diagnosis of depression in your dog, often due to environmental factors, such as death or illness of a family member, change in routine or stress within his household. They may also point to a serious condition, such as heart disease.