Unfortunately, our pets can’t say what’s wrong with them through words but they can demonstrate it with their actions and behavior. As a responsible pet owner, it is your duty to understand what your dog wants to say and how he is feeling. The following article will help you to understand if your dog is under the weather:

Strange Behavior: Every pet owner is well aware of the habits of his pet. And they can easily notice any change in the behavior of dog. If your dog is sick, he may become irritating and impatient. If you observe any such change in your dog’s behavior, consider taking him to a vet. 

Lack of appetite: Although, loss of appetite is not always a symptom that your dog is sick but it should not be ignored. Lack of appetite can be due to common cold or some infection. If loss of appetite is accompanied by lethargy, shivering and dry nose, these may be symptoms of fever.

Breathing problems: Bad breath and struggle in breathing may be symptoms of cold, chest infection, kennel cough, aspiration pneumonia, heart disease or some other respiratory problems. Don’t leave it unattended. If your dog is breathing bad, dental problems may be the reason.

Watery eyes: Watery eyes are usually sign of allergies or in-grown eyelashes. Red and dry eyes also indicate that your dog is not well and should be taken to a vet.

Swollen tummy: Swelling in the stomach area of a dog may be due to a variety of reasons. Constipation or gas bloating may be a reason for that. However, it is not a reason to worry every time as tummy of a dog may also swell due to overeating. But if the vomiting is accompanied by swollen tummy, it is an alarming situation and an indication of sickness of your dog.    

Not drinking water: Drinking no water is a bigger threat than refusing to eat for a dog. If your dog doesn’t drink water for 18 hours, dehydration may set in. Drinking no or very less water is a condition in which the dog must receive immediate medical attention. You can try feeding him undiluted juice at home before taking to the vet.

The Final word:

As a good pet owner, you must learn about the common signs which dogs demonstrate when they are not well so that medical aid can be provided on time. Also, you should be capable of providing the primary treatment at home in some situation if you are not able to take him to vet.