Dogs are faithful companions, but they can't communicate their discomfort verbally. As a responsible pet parent, it's crucial to recognize the warning signs that indicate your furry friend might be unwell.

One common behaviour that often confuses dog owners is tail wagging. While it can signify happiness, the context and tail position also matter in determining your dog's emotional state. 

Tail wagging is not the only way dogs express themselves. They have a range of behaviours and body language cues that can give you insights into their emotional and physical well-being.

1. Head Tilting: If your dog tilts their head to one side, it could mean they're trying to understand you better or are simply curious about something.

2. Licking: Dogs often lick to show affection, but excessive licking could also indicate stress, anxiety, or a medical condition.

3. Panting: Panting is a normal way for dogs to regulate their body temperature, but excessive panting could be a sign of stress, anxiety, or an underlying health issue.

When your dog is sick, you may notice changes in appetite, energy levels, behaviour, and physical symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy. By being vigilant and observing these potential red flags, you can take necessary action to keep your canine companion happy and healthy.

If your dog has persistent diarrhoea for more than 48 hours or you notice blood in their stool, it's a cause for concern. Diarrhoea or constipation can indicate digestive issues, so take a fresh stool sample to your veterinarian for examination.

Persistent vomiting, choking while eating, continuous sneezing, or coughing can be signs of a severe dog illness . If you witness these warning signs, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Reddened or swollen gums, coupled with bad breath, can indicate poor dental health in dogs. Address this issue promptly, as severe cases can lead to tooth loss or weight loss due to difficulty in eating. Consider offering natural dog treats to soothe their gums and aid digestion.

Here are some suggestions -

• Large dog breeds - Pedigree Dentastix

• Medium dog breed - Dogsee Chew Turmeric Chew Bars

• Small dog breed - Pedigree Dentastix small breed 

A dog's skin condition is a good indicator of their overall health. Healthy skin should appear smooth and pink or black. Lumps, swelling, sores, and flaky skin can signify dermatitis, which may be caused by allergic reactions, mites, or bacterial/fungal infections. Flea bites or ticks are common culprits for poor skin conditions in dogs.

1. Weight Changes: Sudden weight loss or gain can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as a thyroid disorder or diabetes.

2. Difficulty Urinating: If your dog seems to be straining or unable to urinate, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection or other bladder issues.

3. Runny Eyes: Excessive tearing or discharge from the eyes can indicate an eye infection, injury, or even an underlying health condition.

4. Loss of Appetite: A sudden loss of appetite can be a symptom of various illnesses, including dental problems, digestive issues, or even cancer.

5. Lethargy: If your usually energetic dog seems unusually tired or lethargic, it could be a sign of illness or pain.

6. Behaviour Changes: Changes in your dog's behaviour, such as increased aggression, anxiety, or depression, can also be indicators of an underlying health issue.

While seeking professional veterinary care is essential for diagnosing and treating serious illnesses, there are some home remedies that can provide temporary relief for minor issues.

For an upset stomach, you can try feeding your dog a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice until the digestive issues subside. Additionally, you can offer small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt to help restore healthy gut bacteria.

If your dog is dehydrated, you can offer them small amounts of an electrolyte-rich solution, like Venlyte or E-Motion to help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. 

For minor cuts and scrapes, you can clean the area with a diluted antiseptic solution like Savlon (Important: please do not use dettol as it is toxic for animals) and apply a pet-safe betadine . 

For mild ear infections, you can try gently cleaning your dog's ears with a  pet-safe ear cleaner  . However, if the infection persists or worsens, seek veterinary attention.

For itchy skin, you can try giving your dog an  oatmeal shampoo  bath or applying a pet-safe, fragrance-free moisturizer to soothe and hydrate their skin.

It's important to note that while these home remedies may provide temporary relief, they should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary care, especially for severe or persistent conditions.

Regularly monitoring your dog's health is essential for early detection and treatment of any potential issues. Here are some tips to help you keep a close eye on your furry friend's well-being:

Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian, even if your dog appears healthy. This allows your vet to catch any potential issues early and provide preventative care.

Keep observing your dog, noting any changes in behaviour, appetite, or physical appearance. This log can help your veterinarian identify patterns and potential causes of any issues.

Regularly run your hands over your dog's body to check for any unusual lumps or bumps. These could be signs of tumours, cysts, or other growths that require medical attention.

Pay attention to your dog's eating and drinking habits. Sudden changes in these behaviors can indicate underlying health problems.

Keep an eye on your dog's bowel movements and urination habits. Changes in frequency, consistency, or the presence of blood can signal a variety of health issues.

If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above or have concerns about your dog's health, don't hesitate to seek veterinary care . Early intervention and treatment can often improve the chances of a successful recovery and prevent more severe complications.

At Supertails, we understand your love and affection for your furry pal, which is why we've compiled these potential warning signs to increase your knowledge and enable you to take necessary steps to combat illnesses.

By being proactive and attentive to your dog's behaviour and physical condition, you can ensure they receive the care they need to live a happy, healthy life.

We hope this article has provided valuable information to help you care for your pet's health. Our goal is to assist pet parents in identifying possible signs of illness in their dogs and taking appropriate action as soon as possible.

• Firstly, observe the symptoms and behaviour of your dog. If the symptoms are severe or if you're unsure about the seriousness of the illness, consult a veterinarian immediately.

• Keep your dog comfortable and warm and provide them with a quiet, cozy place for them to rest.

• Make sure your dog stays hydrated by providing plenty of fresh water .

• Follow any medication instructions provided by your vet diligently.

• Monitor your dog's condition closely and note any changes or worsening symptoms.

• Offer gentle petting and soothing words to reassure your dog.

• Keep the environment calm and quiet to reduce stress.

• Provide your dog with their favourite blankets or toys for comfort.

• Ensure they have a comfortable resting area away from noise and distractions

Before giving your sick dog, always consult a veterinarian to avoid multiple issues from occurring. A vet can provide you with specific dietary recommendations based on your dog's condition. As a general advice you can feed your dog Easily digestible foods such as boiled chicken or plain rice. Avoid rich or spicy foods that may further upset their stomach. 

Yes, dogs may shiver when they are sick, especially if they have a fever or are feeling unwell. Shivering can be a sign of discomfort or pain. Consult a veterinarian immediately if you notice this symptom. 

Shaking or trembling can indicate various health issues, including pain, anxiety, fever, or illness. If your dog is shaking persistently or if there are other concerning symptoms present, it's best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

• Try offering small, frequent meals of highly palatable and easily digestible foods, such as boiled chicken and rice or a bland canned food.

• Warm the food slightly to enhance its aroma and make it more appealing.

• If your dog still refuses to eat, consult your vet for further guidance. In some cases, your vet may suggest appetite stimulants if necessary.

• After vomiting, it's essential to give your dog's stomach time to settle before offering food again.

• Start with small amounts of bland, easily digestible food or a prescription bland diet recommended by your vet.

• Gradually increase the amount and frequency of feeding as tolerated by your dog, and monitor for any signs of further vomiting or discomfort.