When your dog isn’t feeling well, it can be stressful not knowing what’s wrong. Since our pets can’t tell us how they feel, it’s up to us to notice changes in behavior, appetite, or energy. We’re here to help you understand the signs of illness in dogs, what you can do at home, and when to worry if your dog is sick.
How to Tell If Your Dog is Sick
Sometimes the signs are obvious, but often they’re subtle and easy to miss. Knowing the early warning signals can help you catch health problems before they become serious.
Early Warning Signs That Your Dog Might Be Sick
- Loss of interest in play or daily routines
- Mild digestive upset (like soft stool or small amounts of vomit)
- Excessive licking or scratching
- Change in sleep habits or hiding more than usual
Common Behavioral Changes Indicating Illness
Behavior is often one of the first things to shift when a dog isn’t well. Look for:
- Increased clinginess or, conversely, avoiding family members
- Irritability or aggression
- Whining, pacing, or restlessness
- Panting at rest or pacing at night
When Mild Symptoms Can Become Serious
A little lethargy or an upset stomach might not seem like a big deal, but if it lasts longer than a day or worsens, it’s time to call the vet. Dogs can go downhill quickly, and early treatment is often much easier (and less expensive).
Signs Your Dog Is Sick: Symptoms to Watch For
Recognizing physical changes is key to catching illness early. Here are some common sick dog symptoms and what they might mean:
Lethargy and Fatigue: When Your Dog Lacks Energy
A tired pup after a long walk is normal, but if your dog is unusually quiet, won’t get up for meals, or seems unmotivated to move, something may be wrong. Lethargy can signal infection, fever, or more serious internal issues.
Loss of Appetite or Sudden Increase in Thirst
Skipping one meal isn’t always a red flag, but more than 24 hours without food is worth a vet visit. Increased thirst may point to kidney disease, diabetes, or other systemic issues. If you’re unsure what to feed a sick dog, stick with bland, vet-approved options like boiled chicken and rice until you speak with a professional.
Vomiting and Diarrhea: What’s Normal and What’s Not
An occasional upset stomach can happen, but repeated vomiting or diarrhea, blood in the stool, or a dog who can’t keep water down needs urgent care. Persistent symptoms may indicate gastrointestinal disease.
Coughing, Sneezing, and Breathing Issues
Frequent coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing may be signs of heart disease, or respiratory infection. Any breathing issue should be considered serious.
Fever in Dogs: How to Check and What It Means
A normal dog temperature is between 101–102.5°F. If you suspect a fever, use a digital rectal thermometer. A high fever often signals infection or inflammation and needs vet attention.
Skin and Coat Changes: Itching, Hair Loss, and Rashes
Hot spots, bald patches, or persistent itching can indicate allergies, parasites, or infections. Dogs with flaky or dull coats may also be dealing with nutritional deficiencies or underlying illness.
Unusual Odors: Bad Breath, Ear Infections, or Skin Issues
Foul smells from the mouth, ears, or skin are often signs of infection. Bad breath may also suggest dental disease or organ trouble.
Eye and Nose Discharge: When to Be Concerned
Watery eyes or a wet nose are usually fine, but thick, yellow, or green discharge can be a sign of infection or illness.
How to Treat a Sick Dog at Home
Not every health issue needs a vet right away. For mild symptoms, you may be able to provide supportive care at home, but always check with your vet if symptoms persist.
Safe Home Remedies for Common Dog Illnesses
- Bland diet (boiled chicken and rice)
- Pumpkin puree for mild digestive upset
- Cool compress for minor swelling
- Saline rinse for mild eye discharge
Hydration Tips: How to Prevent Dehydration
Dehydration can make a sick dog feel much worse. Keep water accessible, and offer ice cubes or low-sodium broth if they’re hesitant to drink. You can also gently lift their scruff – if it doesn’t bounce back quickly, they may be dehydrated.
What to Feed a Sick Dog: Best and Worst Foods
If you’re unsure what to feed a sick dog with no appetite, start small. Try:
- Plain, skinless boiled chicken
- White rice
- Low-sodium broth
- Plain scrambled eggs (in moderation)
Avoid fatty meats, dairy, seasoned foods, or anything with artificial sweeteners.
How to Comfort Your Dog and Reduce Stress
Sick dogs need rest and calm. Provide a quiet, warm place to relax, minimize loud noises, and stay close for reassurance. Sometimes simply being near you can help them feel better.
Over-the-Counter Medications: What’s Safe and What’s Not
Never give your dog human medications without veterinary guidance. Some OTC meds are safe in the right dose (like certain antihistamines), but others, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be toxic.
When to Worry About a Sick Dog & Call the Vet
Red Flag Symptoms That Require Immediate Veterinary Care
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Inability to stand or walk
- Bloated or hard abdomen
- Blood in vomit or stool
- Collapse or unresponsiveness
These signs are considered emergencies and require prompt veterinary care.
How Long Should You Monitor Symptoms Before Seeking Help?
If mild symptoms (like minor diarrhea, coughing, or lack of appetite) last more than 24–48 hours (or worsen over that period), schedule a vet visit. Trust your gut; it’s better to go in and be told it’s nothing than wait too long.
What to Expect During a Vet Visit for a Sick Dog
The vet may perform a physical exam, take vitals, and run bloodwork or imaging tests. Depending on the symptoms, they might recommend fluids, medications, or follow-up visits.
Emergency vs. Non-Emergency Situations: How to Decide
Use urgency and severity as a guide. If your dog is acting very ill, not breathing normally, or collapsing, go to an emergency vet. For ongoing but non-life-threatening issues, an urgent care clinic like UrgentVet is a great option.
Preventing Illness in Dogs: How to Keep Your Pet Healthy
Best Practices for Strengthening Your Dog’s Immune System
- Feed a high-quality, balanced diet
- Ensure proper hydration
- Provide regular exercise
- Minimize stress and boredom
The Importance of Vaccinations and Preventive Care
Vaccines protect your dog from diseases like rabies, parvovirus, and distemper. Regular parasite prevention for fleas, ticks, and heartworms is also essential.
How Diet and Exercise Play a Role in Canine Health
A healthy weight and proper nutrition support digestion, joint health, and immune function. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation help reduce stress and inflammation.
Regular Vet Checkups: How Often Should Your Dog Go?
Most dogs should see a vet once a year, but seniors or pets with chronic conditions may need more frequent visits. Annual bloodwork and dental checks help catch problems early.
If Your Dog is Sick, Schedule an Appointment at UrgentVet
When your dog isn’t acting like themselves, trust your instincts. UrgentVet is here to help with non-emergency illnesses and injuries, 365 days a year. Walk in or book a same-day appointment at one of our urgent care vet locations near you to get the expert care your pup deserves now.
FAQs About Sick Dogs
How can I tell if my dog has a fever?
Use a digital rectal thermometer. Anything above 103°F is considered a fever.
What are the most common reasons dogs get sick?
Digestive upset, infections, parasites, allergies, and chronic illnesses like kidney or liver disease are among the top causes.
Can I give my dog human medication for pain or fever?
No. Many human medications are toxic to dogs, so always consult your vet.
How do I know if my dog has an upset stomach?
Look for vomiting, loose stools, gurgling sounds from the belly, or reluctance to eat.
Should I force my sick dog to eat or drink?
No, you should never force food. Try offering broth or small portions of bland food. If they refuse for more than a day, contact your vet.
Can stress make my dog sick?
Yes. Stress can weaken the immune system and trigger GI issues, appetite loss, or behavioral changes.
How do I tell if my dog has food poisoning?
Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, tremors, or sudden lethargy. If you suspect food poisoning, seek veterinary help immediately.
When should I take my sick dog to the emergency vet?
If your dog shows signs of collapse, severe pain, difficulty breathing, or profuse bleeding, go straight to an ER.
Is my dog depressed or sick?
Depression and illness can look similar. If your dog is withdrawn, not eating, or losing interest in activities, it’s worth a vet check.
How do I know if my dog is dying or just sick?
Look for signs like persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, or dramatic behavior changes. If you’re unsure, call your vet.
Image Credit: Pogodina Natalia / Shutterstock
