7 Warning Signs Your Dog Needs Medical Attention

All dog owners want their pet to stay happy and healthy but sometimes your dog shows signs of illness that might need your attention at the earliest. Dogs cannot communicate therefore it is the role of the owners to understand when something is wrong with their dog.

When your dog suddenly stops eating or drinking it is not a good sign. Having a low appetite sometimes during weather changes is fine but in case this continues then that is concerning. Too much or too little consumption of water may cause dehydration or diabetes. Monitor the amount of food and water your dog eats or drinks.


Dogs tend to be energetic so when your dog seems to be exhausted most of the time and refuses to play or sleep more than it normally does then it is not normal. Such type of behavior can be a sign of fever, an infection or even heart issues. If your dog does not walk or greet you the way they used to then it is the time to visit your veterinarian.

Healthy dogs have regular bathroom habits. If your dog starts peeing too many times or less than usual, has strains during potty time or has blood in urine then these are danger signs. Dogs suffering from constipation or diarrhea should not be ignored as these signs signal towards urinary infection or digestive trouble that needs medical help.

A little itching is normal but if your dog scratches nonstop, bites at its skin or has bald spots then something is wrong. It could be allergies, fleas or a skin infection. Constant scratching can also hurt the skin and cause wounds so if the scratching does not stop then take your dog to the vet for a checkup.

Dogs love to run and jump but when they limp or avoid putting weight on one leg then it may be due to an injury or arthritis. Younger dogs face sprains or broken joints while older ones suffer from joint pain. A vet exam and X-ray can find the real cause early and prevent permanent damage.


Dog breath never smells good but a bad odor that feels rotten or too strong is a concern not to be ignored. It may be due to gum disease, tooth infection or stomach problems. Extra drooling especially with swelling or bleeding gums, needs quick medical care. Time to time dental checkups for your dog will help prevent these issues before it gets worse.

Dogs show emotions just like humans so if a friendly dog becomes aggressive or acts fearful for no reason then it might be in pain. Behaviours like whining or trembling may be related to an illness or stress. So pay attention to any new or strange behavior as it may be the dog asking for help.


The best way to avoid serious illness is to keep your dog’s routine steady.

• Giving a balanced diet and clean water to your dog is a basic requirement.
• Exercise and daily walks for pets is a must to keep them healthy and happy.
• Vaccination of the dog from their birth till they grow up is important for their health.
• Scheduling yearly vet checkups even if your dog seems fine as early care helps prevent big health problems later and helps your pet live a long life.

Dogs depend on their humans to understand their help signals. Loss of appetite, tiredness or sudden changes in body are some signs your dog needs medical attention. When in doubt always consult the vet

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What position do dogs lay in when in pain?
   Dogs might curl up tightly to protect their abdomen or stay in a rigid hunched position when in pain.
2. How do dogs show internal pain?
   Some signs to notice the inner pain of a dog is if they are breathing heavily or have bloodshot eyes.
3. How does a dog act when the stomach hurts?
   A dog might yelp or growl when their tummy is touched or if someone tries to pick them up.