Having a sick dog can be heartbreaking. Your canine companion is probably your best friend. They are part of the family. It’s like having a sick child; you just want to comfort them. As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your dog is in the best possible health. So, with this comes the need for education when it comes to doggy ailments.

Some dogs are more susceptible to illnesses and problems because of their breed. But, there are some general diseases that all dogs suffer from. The key is to make sure that you are in the know when it comes to these issues so that you can prevent them and tackle them head on.

After all, no one wants a sick dog. Just imagine those big puppy eyes staring at you.

Fleas and Ticks

Okay, so this isn’t technically an ailment of sorts. But, it is a problem that many dogs face. Fleas and ticks are not ordinarily dangerous for a dog’s health. If they are puppies, these pesky parasites can have a detrimental impact on their health. For older dogs, however, they can be an annoyance. They will start biting and clawing at their skin. This is because fleas and ticks lodge themselves into the skin and feed off their blood. For your dog, this can provoke an itching sensation that is often too much to bear. So, make sure that you are using regular flea and tick prevention methods like shampoo and tablets. Also take the time to speak to your vet. You can gain expert advice on any common problems that your dog may be suffering from. What is more, you can seek out the kind of treatment that is best suited to your puppy.

 Arthritis

Arthritis affects a lot of older dogs. This can be painful and can render them immobile. While arthritis can be painful for your dog and cannot wholly be prevented, you can make sure that you are doing your best by them. Giving your dog a well-balanced diet is vital for their bones and muscles. You also need to make sure that they have a strict fitness regime. This can help combat the onset of arthritis in middle aged dogs. You can also give them a comfortable, warm space to sleep in so that they can rest their weary limbs. This is one of the most effective ways of combating the early signs of arthritis in your dog. Having a warm, comfortable space that isn’t the floor is essential for their health. Invest in a dog bed and see them happy and healthy.

Photo credit: Andy G

 Ear Infections

If your dog has long drooping ears, they will be more susceptible to ear infections. This is because when they run they will clog up their ear canal with debris and dirt. You can make sure that pesky ear infections don’t impede on your dog’s health by giving them a weekly bath and spending some time cleaning their ears. Get medicated drops and make sure that their ears are dirt and debris free.