Common Medical Conditions in Dogs

Older dogs, usually those between six to 11 years old or older, often have health problems, but younger dogs are sometimes at risk for various health conditions as well. There are a number of common medical conditions in dogs that affect their digestive, cardiovascular, endocrine, pulmonary, nervous, respiratory, reproductive and/or immune systems.

  1. Kidney Disease

    • Dogs that have kidney disease are not able to rid their body of waste and toxins. If diagnosed early, kidney disease can be treated with a low protein or low phosphorous diet.

    Canine Epilepsy

    • Canine epilepsy is a neurological disease often caused by a tumor or stroke that keeps the brain from functioning properly, and the most common symptom is frequent seizures. Anti-epileptic drugs are often given to dogs to control their seizures.

    Endocardiosis

    • Endocardiosis is a type of heart disease that commonly affects small- and medium-sized dogs. The disease occurs when heart valves are damaged and blood is not able to flow to the heart properly. Diuretics and ACE inhibitors are sometimes given to dogs to improve their blood flow.

    Cushing's Disease

    • Cushing's disease is caused by a tumor in the adrenal gland or over-stimulation of the gland, which causes it to produce an excess of corticosteroids. Veterinarians usually prescribe medications such as Lysodren to stop the adrenal gland from making corticosteroids.

    Hip Dysplasia

    • Hip dysplasia, which affects large-breed dogs, occurs when there is a lack of connection between joint in the hip that connects the hind leg to a dog's body and surrounding body parts. Dogs with hip dysplasia are often treated with surgical procedures, such as those that connect pelvic bones or replace the joint with an artificial one.