There are many health problems in dogs that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of them are breed-related and some are genetic conditions that are inherited.
Dogs may also develop these conditions because they eat foods that cause them to become sick or because of the environmental factors around them, like toxins. Some of these health issues can be prevented with preventative treatment, such as flea and heartworm medication.
Skin Issues
A dog’s skin is one of the most important organs in their body. It regulates their temperature, helps create vitamin D, and acts as a defense against pathogens.
When a dog’s skin is damaged it can lead to major problems and discomfort for your pet. This means that it’s extremely important to pay attention to your dogs’ skin and know what to look for when it goes wrong.
Whether they’re bald patches, red bumps or a rash, it’s critical to make an appointment with your vet when you notice any abnormalities on your pet’s skin. Early diagnosis can help to keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come!
Hot spots are red, itchy and swollen areas of skin that occur when your dog is excessively scratching or licking their body. These swollen spots are often very painful and can quickly worsen and spread if not treated.
Ear Disease
Ear disease affects dogs of all breeds and ages. Infections in the middle and inner ear, which are responsible for hearing, balance and sensation, can be caused by bacteria, fungi or yeast (yeast infection).
Allergies and seborrhea are common causes of ear inflammation in dogs. These conditions can cause the normal balance of bacteria, fungi and yeast to go out of whack.
The result is a cycle that results in inflammation of the ears, pain and itching. Chronic ear infections can also lead to other health problems, such as hearing loss and eye ulcers.
If a dog has a history of ear disease, they should receive regular otoscopic examinations. This can help diagnose the cause of the problem, so that treatment can be given as soon as possible.
Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common dog health problems and can be very painful for your pet. Understanding what signs to watch for can help you prevent your dog from getting a UTI in the first place and ensure that your vet gets a diagnosis quickly so that your dog can get treatment.
Most dogs with urinary tract infections respond to antibiotics and feel much better within 48 hours. Your vet will recheck your dog at a follow-up exam to make sure that the infection is gone.
A UTI typically occurs when bacteria invade your dog’s genitals and urethra, spread to the bladder, kidneys, and prostate gland, and cause inflammation and swelling. Some types of bacteria can also cause stones to form in your dog’s bladder.
Because the symptoms of a UTI can mimic more serious health issues, it is important to catch a UTI early on to prevent it from turning into something more severe and dangerous. Your veterinarian can perform tests to confirm the presence of a UTI and to look for underlying causes of your dog’s urinary tract symptoms.
Benign Tumors
Benign tumors are slow-growing, benign (non-cancerous) cell growths that occur on or in the skin. These growths usually don’t interfere with your pet’s daily routine.
They develop when the skin is stressed, such as due to chronic trauma or repeated injuries. They can appear as plaques, nodules, or small masses on or in the skin.
If they develop in a part of your dog’s body that interferes with its normal activity, treatment is likely necessary. If they grow large or in a location that causes discomfort, surgical removal may be recommended.
Histiocytomas are benign, but they can have serious consequences if not diagnosed and treated promptly. They typically present as solitary, hairless, raised or ulcerated lumps on the head, neck, ears, and limbs.