Here are the top 10 common health issues in puppies and what to look for:
- Parasites: Common parasites in puppies include fleas, ticks, and worms. Look for signs of itching, biting, and scratching, as well as signs of worm infestations such as vomiting and diarrhea.
- Respiratory infections: Symptoms of respiratory infections in puppies include coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
- Diarrhea: This can be caused by a variety of factors, including parasites, dietary changes, and stress. Look for frequent, watery stools.
- Ear infections: Symptoms of ear infections in puppies include head shaking, scratching at the ears, and a foul odor coming from the ears.
- Skin allergies: Symptoms of skin allergies in puppies include itching, redness, and hair loss.
- Congenital defects: Certain breeds are prone to certain congenital defects, such as hip dysplasia, heart defects, and eye problems.
- Demodectic mange: This is a skin condition caused by mites. Symptoms include hair loss, redness, and itching.
- Kennel cough: This is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can cause coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge.
- Parvovirus: This is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
- Distemper: This is a serious viral illness that can affect a puppy’s respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Symptoms include fever, coughing, and seizures.
It is important to take your puppy to the veterinarian for regular check-ups and to address any health issues as soon as they arise.
