7 Common Puppy Diseases You Should Know

Puppies are prone to many health problems, so you might need to know how to take care of them properly if you want to adopt one. As much as you don't want to think about it, the chance of a puppy getting sick is higher than mature dogs. When a puppy catches a particular disease, it's hard for them to recover because their immune systems are still weak, and their bodies are still developing—That's why it's essential that you will know and look out for signs or symptoms.

Knowing what exactly to look for in the behavior of your puppy when they need medical attention, you'll know what you must do. A sick puppy requires immediate attention, while others can wait until tomorrow. However, taking them to the vet ASAP can lower the risk of severe conditions or even death.

Raising a puppy can be an exciting chapter of your life, but it can be stressful when it comes to medical care, and lots of money will be involved. That is why it is highly recommended to have a proper dog health insurance, If your puppy's wellbeing worries you. You also must give proper nutrition and vacations to decrease the risk of potential health problems. Now let's take a closer look at the top 7 most common puppy health diseases you need to watch out for.

Parvo

This disease is very common and contagious to puppies aged 6 weeks to 6 months. Bodily secretions can easily transmit parvo from unvaccinated canines. While most dogs are vaccinated against parvo, puppies that are not yet vaccinated might catch them. Vets recommend getting your puppies vaccinated when they are under six to eight weeks old.

Parvo attacks certain parts of the puppy, mainly damaging the stomach and the small intestine of a dog. This deadly virus spreads through direct or indirect contact with an infected canine or contaminated object. Another cause of the spread of the disease is by licking or consuming infected feces. Puppies like to explore and are drawn to smell, so there is a higher chance this thing might happen. To protect your puppy, vets require a yearly booster of the vaccine.

Distemper

Young puppies and unvaccinated canines are also susceptible to distemper. This virus can be transmitted airborne, on contaminated environmental surfaces, or in contact with infected wildlife. This disease can be avoided if dogs are adequately vaccinated, but it can be fatal if they become infected. Another reason why unvaccinated or not completed their vaccination should avoid big gatherings of dogs and walk-in public locations. Unfortunately, most instances are deadly, and those who survive may suffer lifelong brain damage. The symptoms of distemper are explosive diarrhea, discharge from the nose and eyes, difficulty breathing, and weakness. Puppies may likewise experience seizures and loss of appetite.

The canine distemper virus immunization is quite successful. The first vaccination is given at six to eight weeks of age, followed by another at nine weeks, and when puppies have had one or two immunizations, they are immune. Consult a veterinarian right away for the best distemper vaccine treatment plan for your dog.

Kennel Cough

Kennel cough is distinguished by an irritating honking cough, which owners frequently describe as sounding as if something got stuck in the dog's throat. Its caused by a bacterial infection or airborne virus like canine parainfluenza viruses. This disease is highly contagious and frequently contracted in densely populated canine settings like dog shows. Puppies can be protected against it if you provide them with complete series of vaccines. Puppies aged six to eight weeks can be vaccinated, according to vets. Vaccines don't always protect your puppies against it, but it reduces the mild symptoms.

Vomiting

Vomiting can indicate a variety of illnesses. This may be more problematic in a puppy because they are smaller and more prone to dehydration and low blood sugar. If your dog vomits, call your veterinarian immediately, and do not wait if they suggest you come in.

Vomiting can be caused by various factors, including infections, parasites, intestinal blockages caused by eating foreign objects, and systemic or congenital diseases. Once your puppy starts vomiting uncontrollably, you should bring them to your local vet for further diagnosis. Again, it is advisable to invest in fetch dodo pet insurance or a similar trusted third-party provider just in case your puppy needs medical attention and hospitalization. Not only will it reduce your financial burden, but you'll also have peace of mind knowing that your puppy will easily receive proper care.

Diarrhea

Puppy diarrhea can be a sign of a dangerous sickness or a simple, common ailment in pups. Many factors can cause diarrhea, including more deadly viruses such as Distemper and Parvo, and more common causes such as intestinal worms or simply eating something terrible that upsets the stomach.

Don't panic diarrhea is common even to people, but if the condition worsens, it could be deadly. Diarrhea leads to dehydration and health complications if not treated promptly. If your puppy has minor diarrhea, provide them with plenty of electrolytes. Water with one tablespoon of sugar is good to make them feel better; however, if there is no sign of improvement, take them to the nearest pet clinic asap.

Fleas and ticks

Fleas and ticks transmit disease and are unpleasant for your dog. In dogs with severe infestations, they can even induce anemia. Flea prevention advised by your veterinarian should be administered to your pet all year to help protect them against fleas. This is true for dogs who are used to spending time outdoors or indoors.

This little critter can multiply very fast and is harmful to humans too! You can eliminate this pest by cleaning your pet beddings, over-the-counter treatments, shampoo for dogs, and dog powders. Scratching is the first indicator that your dog has ticks and fleas.

Parasites

Dogs can become infected with parasites in a variety of ways. Worms are picked up via another dog's stool or from polluted soil. Other dogs can carry parasites and pass them on to your puppy. Each parasite has a unique effect on dogs. Abdominal pain, Diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, poor coat look, lethargy, dehydration, plump appearance, nutritional deficits, anemia, pneumonia, intestinal blockage, and blood in stool are general signs. Once a parasite has been identified in a dog, veterinarians often offer deworming and prophylactic medicine.