Dogs have hardy immune systems and are able to fight off most germs. Sometimes bacteria and viruses become too much to ward off, and they cause infection. Many times dogs don't display symptoms of illness immediately, but you can look for certain indications that your pet is not feeling well.
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Discharge
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If you observe a watery or pus-filled discharge anywhere on your dog, it's usually a sign of infection. Whether his eyes are very runny, particularly if this is not common for your dog, or he has a sore anywhere on his body that is oozing pus, it indicates that his body is trying to flush a foreign body or a toxin from it. Pus is formed when white blood cells collect around an infection and try to kill disease-causing bacteria.
Swelling
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Swelling is the body's way of protecting an injury. Whether your dog stepped on a sharp object that penetrated his skin or he has an internal injury and his abdomen is distended, the body typically rushes lymph fluid to the affected area in an effort to flush it. It may also carry oxygen-rich blood to the area to speed healing. This overabundance of fluid engorges the area and makes it appear swollen.
Redness
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Sometimes you'll find an area on your dog's skin that is red and very warm to the touch. The redness is from blood pooling in the area as a result of trauma or infection. If the area around your dog's eyes is unusually red, it could be a sign of infection, particularly if it's paired with swelling. It's generally an indication that blood has rushed to the area to begin fighting disease-causing bacteria.
Lethargy
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An internal infection can sap a dog's energy. If your dog is lethargic, his immune system may be taxed by harmful bacteria, viruses or germs. This is one of the obvious symptoms, particularly if you have a dog that is usually very active. This issue is apparent even without close scrutiny of your pet. If he usually enjoys playing fetch in the yard and you can't get him to leave the couch, this may be cause for concern.
Odor
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Every dog has an odor unique to it. This allows them to differentiate from each other when they scent mark. Aside from their natural smell, some dogs emit a foul odor when they are suffering from infection. A quick sniff of your dog's ears may turn up an unpleasant smell. The odor is generally from yeast spores and bacteria overgrowth. Also, sores on a dog's skin can smell if left untended. If the smell of your dog's breath changes dramatically, it could be a sign of infection, either in the mouth or somewhere along the digestive tract.
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