As pet parents, we know our dogs can’t tell us when something’s wrong — but they can show us. Knowing how to recognize early signs of illness could be the difference between a quick recovery and a serious medical issue.

In this guide, we’ll cover 10 common signs your dog might be sick, what they could mean, and what steps to take — plus a few recommended products to help monitor your pet’s health at home.

1. Loss of Appetite

Dogs may skip a meal occasionally, but consistent refusal to eat can be a red flag. This could indicate anything from digestive upset to dental pain, or even organ dysfunction.

2. Lethargy or Unusual Tiredness

If your normally energetic pup is suddenly inactive or sleeping more than usual, it could be a sign of an underlying condition such as infection, pain, or metabolic disorders.

What To Do:

Monitor for other symptoms and schedule a vet visit. Track activity with a dog fitness tracker

3. Vomiting or Diarrhea

Occasional vomiting or loose stool isn’t always an emergency. However, frequent or severe episodes, especially with blood, warrant immediate veterinary attention.

4. Coughing or Sneezing

Respiratory issues can signal anything from allergies to kennel cough or even canine influenza. Chronic coughing may also indicate heart or lung problems.

5. Changes in Urination

Increased urination, straining, or accidents in the house could be a sign of urinary tract infections, kidney problems, or diabetes.

At-Home Option:

Try dog urine test strips like these for early detection of pH and other imbalances.

6. Bad Breath or Drooling

Chronic bad breath, excessive drooling, or visible tartar buildup are often signs of dental disease — a painful and common issue in adult dogs.

Use a veterinarian-recommended dog dental kit check this one for daily hygiene.

7. Itchy Skin or Hair Loss

Scratching, chewing, or patchy fur could be caused by parasites, allergies, or skin infections. If untreated, this can worsen quickly.

Try This:

Look into hypoallergenic dog shampoos or omega-3 skin supplements find them here.

8. Sudden Weight Gain or Loss

Unexpected changes in weight may signal hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, or underlying diseases such as cancer.

Monitor:

Use a digital pet scale to keep tabs on changes regularly.

9. Behavioral Changes

Aggression, hiding, pacing, or general anxiety can sometimes point to pain or discomfort rather than behavior problems.

Don’t Miss This:

Try a dog calming diffuser or CBD oil for pets vet-formulated while you schedule a checkup.

10. Difficulty Walking or Limping

Limping, stiffness, or a reluctance to climb stairs could be early signs of arthritis, joint issues, or injuries.

What To Do If You Notice These Symptoms

• Track symptoms and any changes over a few days.

• Don’t delay — call your vet for anything persistent or severe.

• Use at-home health tools when possible to monitor minor changes.

• Make sure your dog has a balanced diet and regular checkups.

Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Stay Proactive

The best way to keep your furry companion healthy is to stay informed and act early. Dogs are masters at hiding pain — but with the right knowledge (and the right tools), you can be their strongest health advocate.

Recommended Read: Best Dog Foods Ranked by Vets (Dry, Wet & Fresh)

10 Signs Your Dog Might Be Sick (And What To Do About It)