Bringing a new puppy home can be an overwhelming experience; both for them and for you! Given the stress of moving away from their litter, and the fact that a puppy’s immune system is still developing, it’s common for young pups to become unwell.
There are lots of common medical issues that you can help prevent, although you won’t always be able to stop your little pup becoming unwell in their first few weeks at home with you. That's why it’s important to know the common signs of sickness to watch out for, and to identify when your pup needs help.
What are common viral diseases in puppies?
Some of the more common puppy illnesses are the ones that we recommend vaccinating against since they have the potential to be fatal.
In the UK, vaccine programmes are generally quite effective, but this stops being the case once too many owners decline vaccinations. This makes keeping on top of your puppy's vaccinations absolutely crucial!
The main common viral diseases we tend to vaccinate puppies against include:
Parvovirus
Parvovirus is a viral disease with a high mortality rate.
It can spread quickly in unvaccinated dogs and is difficult to treat. It presents as a sudden illness in dogs, and they can deteriorate within hours.
Signs include:
- Bloody diarrhoea
- Sickness
- Lethargy
- Pale gums
Emergency therapy is needed which can include intravenous fluids, assisted feeding, and antibiotics.
Kennel Cough
Generally, it’s dogs under the age of two who catch this infection, as they have limited immunity to it. They develop a loud ‘goose honk’ cough that some owners mistake for choking episodes.
While they have a cough, they should be kept away from other dogs, as they’ll be highly infectious.
For most, signs last no longer than two weeks, and any discomfort can be managed with anti-inflammatories and honey.
Canine Distemper
Despite practicing as a vet in the UK for the last 13 years, I’ve not yet seen a case of Distemper. This is undoubtedly thanks to the effective vaccine programme.
Signs can include:
- A fever
- Lethargy
- Runny eyes and nose
Though there’s no cure, vets can provide supportive treatment. Sadly, up to 75% of puppies will pass away from Distemper.
Common infections in puppies
Some of the more common puppy illnesses are caused by bacteria.
Any pup can be affected, and signs depend on where in the body the infection is.
Let’s take a look at the ones we see most here in the UK:
Urine infections
You may suspect a puppy urine infection if your pup’s urinating frequently and if it’s:
Your vet can analyse their urine, and if an infection’s present, will issue a course of antibiotics.
If you think your little one has an infection, try to bring a fresh urine sample along with you to their consultation.
Eye infections
Though any puppy can be affected by an eye infection, they’re more common in certain breeds. This is because underlying conditions such as entropion and ingrown eyelashes are seen more commonly in breeds like Chow Chows and Spaniels - which can lead to secondary infections.
Signs of a puppy eye infection include:
- Squinting
- Red eyes
- Discharge that can be yellow, green, or brown.
Treatment will include antibiotic drops, pain relief, and any underlying problem will need to be addressed too.
Ear infections
If you’re dealing with a puppy ear infection, you’ll soon know. Your pup will be scratching, rubbing and shaking their head and you may notice their ear canals are waxy and smelly.
Your vet can swab the ears to check for any parasites, yeast, or bacteria. Once they know what they’re dealing with, targeted drops can be started.
Puppy ear infection treatment usually lasts 10 days and consists of ear drops - your pup should then be reseen, to confirm any infection is gone.
To help prevent any future ear infections, you should make ear cleaning a part of your puppies bathing routine, and continue this into adulthood.
Skin infections
Skin infections often affect the skin on the belly, where you may see red dots and pustules. Those who have been scratched or nipped by their littermates are more at risk.
As well as medicated washes, your vet may prescribe antibiotics. These can generally be given alongside your pup’s food. For some, infections are triggered by parasites such as fleas and mites, so make sure your pup’s up to date with their parasite prevention.
What to look out for: Signs and symptoms
When your puppy’s poorly, you'll notice a wide range of different signs. Sick puppy symptoms may come and go, and your pup may seem to be getting better, before signs resume once again.
If you pick up on any of the following signs, you may need to consider booking an appointment with your vet:
Gastrointestinal disturbances
Finding a pile of puppy sick or noticing a loose poo isn’t always a major concern.
However, if your puppy has ongoing symptoms and also seems unwell, this should be investigated.
A common cause of gastro upset is a rapid diet change. When switching your pup’s food, do so gradually over 5 days or so.
Respiratory issues
If your puppy has a mild and infrequent cough but seems otherwise well, this isn’t going to warrant emergency care.
However, if they have laboured breathing or seem distressed, we’d want them seen at the emergency clinic.
Many owners worry that their pup is breathing rapidly while asleep. This is normal during dreams/REM sleep. If their breathing returns to normal once awake, this is likely nothing to worry about.
Skin disease
As well as seeing changes such as fur loss, red skin, and scabs - you might also notice your pup seems uncomfortable. Itchiness typically presents as scratching, but also as rubbing, chewing and biting their skin.
The importance of regular puppy check-ups
Most vets advise that pups are seen at about 8 weeks old, and again 2-4 weeks later for their vaccines. These check-ups provide an excellent opportunity for a chat and a full health check.
After this, some clinics will suggest seeing your pup monthly. This means they can be weighed, and more parasite prevention can be issued.
At the check-up, you can discuss any concerns you may have. At the same time, your vet can detect any problems that may arise (such as trouble gaining weight, baby teeth that don’t fall out, or testicles that don’t descend).
Preventative measures to keep your puppy healthy?
Thankfully, there are lots of things you can do to make sure your pup lives their best life and is in tip top health and avoid some common dog diseases.
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Keeping on top of their vaccination schedule. Every puppy should receive the core vaccines, which includes cover against potentially fatal diseases such as Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, and Distemper.
The exact schedule depends on the puppy’s age when seen and the type of vaccine used, as well as if the breeder has given the pup any vaccinations already.
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Proper nutrition. One of the most important things that you can do is to provide a balanced, tasty, and healthy puppy food.
This should contain plenty of Calcium and Phosphorus for growing bones, Omega-3 Fatty Acids for brain development, and lots of calories so they have energy for both growth and getting up to mischief!
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Regular exercise. Puppies need to burn off energy in productive ways. This can include walks (once old enough), sniffing sessions, ‘find it’ games, food puzzles, and even mini obstacle courses.
When it comes to providing exercise and stimulating your pup’s brain, the world’s your oyster and it can be fun to get creative.
When to worry about a sick puppy?
It can be tricky to know when your pup’s coping well, or when they need intervention.
A good rule to stick by is, if you’re not sure, contact your vet. You’ll never regret having your puppy checked over, even if your vet is happy to confirm they’re doing well.
When to seek veterinary care
If your puppy isn’t well, it’s a good idea to get them seen.
When small and young, they have less fat reserves and are more prone to dehydration and low blood sugar. Puppies can go downhill very quickly.
Ongoing diarrhoea, persistent vomiting, lethargy, food refusal, evidence of an infection (such as gunky ears, runny eyes, or scabby skin) would also be reasons to see a vet.
Recognising puppy emergencies
Some ‘red flag’ signs in puppies warrant emergency vet care.
These include:
- Lethargy and trouble staying awake
- Food refusal for over 24 hours (assuming pup is more than 10 weeks of age)
- Vomiting and being unable to hold water down
- Loss of balance or obvious weakness
- Pale or dry gums
- Laboured breathing
- Seizures
- Active bleeding that cannot be stemmed
Maintaining your puppy's health
As your puppy grows and develops, you’ll have a part to play in ensuring they stay healthy. Remember to monitor the following:
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Dental care. Try to introduce tooth brushing and cleaning to your pup from a young age, so they’re happy to tolerate it.
You can use flavoured dog toothpastes, to help convince them that brushing is worthwhile. In an ideal world, you’d brush daily, but even brushing a few times a week can make a real impact.
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Socialisation and training. Both socialisation and training are critical when it comes to ensuring robust mental health and preventing anxiety and behavioural disorders, such as aggression and separation anxiety.
Keep in mind that this continues throughout your dog’s lifetime and doesn’t stop when they become an adult.
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Grooming and hygiene. Regular grooming such as fur brushing, nail trimming, and cleaning skin folds will all help to prevent problems such as matted fur, skin infections and ingrown claws.
This can be done from home, though some owners are happier having an expert (groomer) take the reins when it comes to hair and nail cuts.
When it comes to your puppy’s health, you don’t want to take a backseat. Simple things can be done and kept on top on which make a big difference to your pup’s wellbeing.
If your puppy’s unwell, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care. Thankfully, most infections and illnesses can be easily treated, and your puppy should be back to their happy, cheeky self in no time
FAQs
Why are puppies sick more than adult dogs?
Puppy sickness is more common compared to adult dog sickness, and they can be more prone to infections and illnesses too.
This is because they’re still developing and have an immature immune system, they may not be fully vaccinated, and are also more likely to eat and lick things they shouldn’t.
What are some signs of ear infections in puppies?
Puppy ear infection symptoms include ear scratching and rubbing. Dogs may squeal when they do this, and some tilt their head to the side.
Inside the canal, you may see lots of wax, as well as red skin. There can also be a strong smell, which can be musty if there’s a yeast infection present.
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