As soon as you notice your dog is not acting his usual self you may begin to worry something is wrong. Dogs, like people, have days when they do not feel 100 percent, however there are symptoms your dog may exhibit that indicate an illness like infection or disease, or an injury. Being able to recognize these symptoms and having a basic idea of the possible causes will help you decide whether veterinary care is needed.
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Lethargy
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It is common for dogs, especially puppies, to sleep a lot. However, when awake dogs should be active and alert. Lethargy is a state of drowsiness or indifference causing a delayed response to a dog's surroundings such as noises, smells or activities. This type of decreased activity is an indication your dog does not feel well. Unfortunately, lethargy is a symptom of a vast array of underlying disorders. Some causes of lethargy are: blood disorders such as anemia, a side effect of a medication, heart and respiratory problems, infection, exposure to toxins, gastrointestinal problems and canine eye diseases, especially those that cause blindness. If your dog is lethargic for more than a day, look for other signs like difficulty breathing, tremors, weakness, and a change in the level of consciousness. A complete physical exam paired with blood tests conducted by a veterinarian can help identify the underlying cause of your dog's lethargy.
Excessive Thirst
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Dogs will drink more when it is hot so if you notice your dog drinking more on a hot day there may be no cause for alarm. However, if you notice your dog drinking and urinating more than usual consider having him seen by a veterinarian. Excessive thirst can indicate a problem with your dog's kidneys or liver, or an issue with the levels of calcium in her blood, prohibiting her body from absorbing the water she drinks. Canine diabetes is the most common cause of excessive thirst, followed by liver disease, kidney failure and hyperglycemia.
Weight Loss
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A sick dog may lose weight, even if it still has the same appetite it always has. When weight loss exceeds 10 percent of normal body weight not associated with fluid loss, there is cause for concern. There are many reasons for weight loss such as disorders relating to poor digestion or inadequate absorption of nutrients, as well as cancer or heart disease. Confirm weight loss by reviewing your dog's past body weight. If the weight loss is significant, have your dog seen by a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the weight loss.
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