Dogs are man's best friend. Our quadrupedal friends are plagued by diseases and illness just like their bipedal masters. You will be even more surprised to know that canine health problems are similar to illnesses suffered by humans. For example, dogs too suffer from diabetes, arthritis, depression and even worms.

Canine Health Record
Just as we keep a record of all the illnesses suffered by our children, we need to keep a canine health record too. Each and every canine health problem has specific signs and symptoms. If you have a keen observation of the pup's or dog's behavior, it will be very easy to detect any major dog illnesses. As an owner, keep a canine health record containing the following canine health information:
  • Ears: The ears should be clean and free from any mites, wax or discharge. Keep an eye for matted hair in the ears.
  • Eyes: The eyes should be bright, expressive, sparkling with no abnormal signs of veins, ulcers, sores or discharge.
  • Mouth: The mouth of your canine friend should be pink, healthy with no dental problems. The teeth should be white with no abnormal discoloring.
  • Head: The head should have no sore patches, hair loss or wounds.
  • Skin: The skin should feel like elastic with no rashes or redness.
  • Trunk: There should be no sore patches, wounds or hair loss on the trunk.
  • Limbs: Similar to the head and truck, you should check out for unusual hair loss, sore patches and wounds.
  • Languor: If the dog looks shows unusual lack of energy, interest and inactivity, it may be due to several canine health problems or old age.
  • Limping: If your dog is limping or having any trouble moving, locate the painful area with a firm hand. Visit the doctor for a specific treatment.
  • Breathing: Gasping for air, heavy breathing or irregular breathing should be noted and informed to the veterinarian.
  • Behavior: Any change or deviation from normal dog behavior is an indication of dog illness plaguing your pet.
  • Vomiting: Unusual and frequent vomiting is a sign of many underlying causes.
  • Appetite: Sudden loss of appetite can indicate illness or disease affecting the dog.
  • Urination and Diarrhea: Frequent or irregular urination is also a symptom of many diseases. Keep a note of the stools due to diarrhea whether it is bloody, loose, etc. In female dogs, note any virginal discharge that is unusual.
The above canine health record will help you maintain canine health care in a better way. There are many canine health issues that need to be dealt with patiently and promptly.

Few Common Canine Health Problems
  • Dog abscess
  • Dog acne
  • Deafness in dogs
  • Canine diabetes
  • Heartworm in dogs
  • Dog ear problems
  • Dog allergies
  • Infectious hepatitis in dogs
  • Dog obesity
  • Dog hip dyspepsia
  • Dog arthritis
  • Ringworm infection
  • Coughing in dogs
  • Cataract
  • Asthma in dogs
  • Dog anemia
  • Dog insomnia
  • Dog hair loss
  • Dog pink eye
  • Ulcers in dogs
These are a few canine health concerns that affect your four-legged friends. There are many serious canine health issues like dog cancer affecting lungs, mouth, breast, bone. The dog may also suffer from seizures, prostate problems, lipomas, mast cell tumors, canine lupus, autoimmune disease etc. Thus, it is very important not to take any signs and symptoms lightly. You never know which serious canine health issue troubles your pet.

Canine Health Care
There are certain problems that affect specific dog breeds, type or race of dogs. Therefore, it is necessary to gather all the information regarding the various ailments that can be matter of concern for your dog. There are various canine vaccinations available for dogs and puppies that safeguard your pet from potential diseases.

Just as a parent you trust your instincts regarding every cough and sneeze of your child, follow the same rule for your pet. Most pet owners treat their canine friends as one of their family. Therefore be alert regarding the dog health problems, just as you would for other family members. Visit the veterinarian regularly and speak to him about any doubts you have regarding your dog's health. Do not take health problems lightly. It is your responsibility to provide your pet a happier and healthier life.