Just like us, our adored canine companions can face a variety of health issues throughout their lives. Some problems are mild and manageable, while others can be more serious and require ongoing care. The earlier you recognize the signs, the better chance your dog has for successful treatment and a comfortable life.
Here are the 10 most common health problems in dogs, what they are, how common they are, the main causes, and the key signs to watch for.
The 10 Most Common Health Problems in Dogs
We want to be able to do the best we can for our fur babies. Part of that is being prepared and knowing what can spring up. That means knowing what the most common health problems are and how you can help.
1. Ear Infections
- What it is: An infection in the ear canal, often causing irritation and discomfort.
- How common: Very common, especially in floppy-eared breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Beagles, and Basset Hounds.
- Causes: Excess moisture, allergies, ear mites, or wax buildup.
- Signs to watch for: Head shaking, scratching at ears, redness, discharge, foul odor, sensitivity when touched.
- How to help: read this post.
2. Dental Disease
- What it is: Plaque and tartar buildup that leads to gum disease, tooth decay, and infections.
- How common: Affects more than 80% of dogs over 3 years old.
- Causes: Poor dental care, diet, and genetics (small breeds are at higher risk).
- Signs to watch for: Bad breath, drooling, yellow/brown teeth, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth.
- How to help: read this post.
3. Obesity
- What it is: Excess body fat that puts strain on joints, heart, and other organs.
- How common: Nearly 50% of dogs are overweight or obese.
- Causes: Overfeeding, too many treats, lack of exercise, and sometimes hypothyroidism.
- Signs to watch for: No visible waistline, difficulty feeling ribs, fatigue, difficulty breathing after mild activity, reluctance to exercise.
- How to help: read this post.
4. Skin Allergies
- What it is: An allergic reaction that causes chronic skin irritation and itching.
- How common: One of the most common reasons for vet visits.
- Causes: Pollen, dust mites, mold, flea bites, and certain foods.
- Signs to watch for: Excessive scratching, licking paws, hair loss, hot spots, red or inflamed skin, frequent ear infections.
- How to help: read this post.
5. Arthritis
- What it is: Joint inflammation that causes stiffness, pain, and limited mobility.
- How common: Very common in senior dogs, but younger dogs with joint issues are also at risk.
- Causes: Age, obesity, hip/elbow dysplasia, or past injuries.
- Signs to watch for: Limping, stiffness after rest, reluctance to climb stairs or jump, slower movement, behavioral changes due to pain.
- How to help: read this post.
6. Parasites (Fleas, Ticks, Worms)
- What it is: External parasites (fleas, ticks, mites) or internal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms).
- How common: Extremely common without preventative care.
- Causes: Contact with contaminated soil, other animals, or environments.
- Signs to watch for:
- Fleas/ticks: Scratching, visible bugs, hair loss, scabs.
- Worms: Scooting, bloated belly, visible worms in stool, diarrhea, weight loss.
- How to help: read these posts:
7. Pancreatitis
- What it is: Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas.
- How common: It’s quite common. Certain breeds like Miniature Schnauzers and small terriers, as well as older, overweight, or obese dogs, have a higher predisposition.
- Causes: Genetics, obesity, diet, autoimmune issues, age.
- Signs to watch for: Fever, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, stretching, severe abdominal pain, increased blood amylase/lipase, dehydration.
- How to help: read this post.
8. Kidney Disease
- What it is: Reduced kidney function that makes it harder to filter toxins from the body.
- How common: Common in senior dogs but can occur at any age.
- Causes: Aging, infections, toxins, genetics, or other diseases.
- Signs to watch for: Increased thirst and urination, weight loss, vomiting, bad breath (ammonia-like smell), poor coat condition, loss of appetite.
- How to help: read this post.
9. Heart Disease
- What it is: Conditions such as congestive heart failure, valve disease, or murmurs.
- How common: Common in older dogs and certain breeds (Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Boxers, Dobermans).
- Causes: Genetics, aging, obesity, poor diet.
- Signs to watch for: Coughing (especially at night), difficulty breathing, fatigue, fainting, swollen belly (fluid buildup).
- How to help: read this post.
10. Cancer
- What it is: Abnormal cell growth that can form tumors or spread internally.
- How common: One of the leading causes of death in dogs over 10 years old.
- Causes: Age, genetics, environmental toxins, chronic inflammation.
- Signs to watch for: Lumps or bumps, wounds that don’t heal, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, lethargy, bleeding, changes in bathroom habits.
- How to help: read this post.
With most of these, a trip to your trusted holistic vet is a good idea, not only for proper diagnosis, but also for support along the way for management and treatment. Thankfully, in all cases, there are also natural things that you can do to help your adored beast. Knowing more is doing more, and that’s doing right by your dog!
