How to Tell If Your Dog Is Sick: Signs & What to Do

Nothing is worse than knowing your pup isn't feeling their best. And sometimes, seeing the signs that your dog is sick isn't easy. Dogs will often mask their sickness, not showing any signs until their illness has progressed.

However, keying in on sick dog symptoms early on can help you provide your dog with the right care. Find out how to tell if your dog is sick and what you can do to help your dog get well.

Sick dog symptoms & signs

Learning key signs your dog is sick can help you provide them with the treatment and care they need right away.

For dog parents who aren't quite sure whether their dog is exhibiting signs of illness, Sabina Snyder, Specialty Surgery Technician, PetCoach, shares, "Most of the time, you can tell your dog is sick in many of the same ways you would be able to tell that you or your child was sick. However, pets are 'programmed' to hide their sickness from us, so you must be a little more observant. Most dogs, when they are ill, will be more listless. They will sleep more. Vomiting or diarrhea is always something to watch for. Not eating or drinking is a sign of illness. Droopy eyelids, droopy skin or skin that seems to pull away from the body and not go back easily can be signs of dehydration. "

You can also look for the following symptoms and signs that your pup isn't feeling their best:

• Itchy skin: If your dog is scratching excessively or licking their paw pads, these can be signs of allergies or illnesses.
• Itching their ears: A common sign of an ear infection in dogs is pawing at their ears or shaking their head vigorously.
• Lethargy: If your dog isn't interested in their usual activities and is acting lethargic and tired, it could be a sign they aren't feeling well.
• Decreased appetite: If your pup is less interested in their food bowl or stops eating meals, it might be a sign of an underlying health concern.
• Increased thirst: While hydration is a good thing, when your dog suddenly drains their water dish more than usual without cause, it can be a sign of an illness, such as kidney disease or diabetes.
• Changes in their digestion: If your dog has major bowel movement changes, such as diarrhea or a change in the consistency of their poop, it could indicate that they are dealing with an illness or parasites.
• Vomiting: While vomiting is sometimes simply due to a bout of anxiety or a grassy snack, if your dog is vomiting frequently or vomiting up blood, it is often a larger concern.
• Increased urination: If your dog needs to pee more than usual, it can be a sign of a urinary tract infection or kidney issue.
• Bad breath: More than simply unpleasant, if your dog has particularly bad breath, it could be a sign of a dental illness.
• Behavioral changes: As a pet parent, you're in tune with how your dog normally behaves. Any major changes in their behavior, such as lethargy, hiding or decreased activity, could indicate they are feeling unwell.

Common dog diseases & causes

Understanding common dog diseases and their causes can help you key in on what illness your own pup might be facing. Keep in mind that the following is not an exhaustive list of illnesses, and you should always consult with a vet to diagnose your dog.

• Diabetes: Canine diabetes is caused by a lack of insulin production or an inadequate response to insulin. Some dogs are genetically prone to diabetes, and being overweight can put dogs at a heightened risk for this disease.
• Heartworm: Heartworm is transmitted to dogs via the bite of infected mosquitoes. The disease can be avoided by putting your dog on heartworm prevention medication.
• Rabies: This disease is transmitted when one infected animal bites another. The good news is that rabies can be prevented through routine vaccination.
• Distemper: A leading infectious disease in dogs, distemper is easily spread through a dog's nose excretions. This disease can often be prevented through routine vaccination.
• Bordetella: The most common cause of kennel cough, Bordetella is transmitted between dogs, like the common cold in humans. Routine vaccination should be provided for dogs that will be socializing with other dogs at daycares, dog parks or other group settings.
• Parvovirus: This canine disease is transmitted through exposure to contaminated feces. Puppies are particularly vulnerable before they have received the full round of vaccinations for this disease.
• Lyme disease: Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness transmitted to dogs through infected ticks. Dogs can be protected against this illness by using a preventive tick treatment in addition to a vaccine.
• Ear infections: Ear infections are extremely common in dogs, particularly those with floppy ears. They are caused by bacteria or yeast that get trapped in the ear.
• Kidney disease: Some dogs are genetically predisposed to kidney disease, and many dogs develop this disease in their senior years.

What to do if your dog is sick

If your dog is showing signs that they are sick, it is important to seek treatment for your pup. Start by making a list of any symptoms your dog is exhibiting.

Next, schedule a vet appointment or search for a Petco vet near you. Your veterinarian will be able to help diagnose your dog's illness using diagnostics to help identify the root cause of any health issues. Your vet will also recommend the right treatment plan based on your dog's specific needs. While it can be tempting to try to diagnose your dog on your own, it is always best to seek the help of a veterinarian.

Caring for Your Dog at Home After a Vet Visit

Once your veterinarian has diagnosed what's going on and your dog is back home, your role shifts to attentive, consistent follow-through. The tips below can help your dog recover comfortably — and help you feel confident you're doing right by him.

Create a quiet, comfortable resting space. Rest is one of the most important parts of recovery. Set up a cozy spot in a low-traffic, low-stimulation area of your home — away from loud TVs, busy hallways or other pets. If your dog is crate-trained, adding an extra blanket or a fresh bed inside his crate can make that familiar space feel even more secure. Prioritizing uninterrupted sleep gives his body the energy it needs to heal.

Follow medication instructions exactly. If your vet prescribed medication, make sure you fully understand the dosage schedule before you leave the clinic — or call back to clarify. Ask for written instructions so nothing gets lost in the moment. Setting a daily phone reminder is a simple way to stay on track and avoid a missed dose. Never adjust a dose or stop a course of medication early without checking with your veterinarian first.

Monitor eating and drinking closely. Staying hydrated and well-nourished supports recovery. If your dog has little to no appetite, contact your vet before making any dietary changes. Depending on what's going on, he or she may recommend a short-term bland diet — such as plain boiled chicken and rice or plain canned pumpkin — prepared without oils, seasonings or additives of any kind. Your vet may also suggest a wet food or a food topper to encourage eating. Follow your vet's specific guidance rather than general advice, since the right approach depends on your dog's diagnosis.

Stay close and be a calming presence. You are your dog's greatest source of comfort. When he isn't feeling well, simply sitting or lying quietly beside him can be genuinely soothing. You don't need to entertain him — your presence alone signals safety and helps ease stress during an uncomfortable time.

When to call your vet again: If your dog's condition isn't improving, his symptoms worsen, he stops eating or drinking entirely, or you have any concern about his medications or recovery, reach out to your veterinarian right away. Trust your instincts — you know your dog best.

When to take your dog to the emergency vet

In many cases, a dog that is dealing with a normal illness can wait for a vet visit with their regular veterinarian within a day or so based on your veterinarian's guidance. However, there are certain cases where it is best to take your dog to the emergency vet in the event symptoms arise while your regular veterinarian is closed for the day. Seek out urgent care in the following situations:

• Your dog has difficulty breathing.
• Your dog has a seizure.
• They are acting disoriented or having trouble standing.
• They are panting excessively.
• Your dog is vomiting blood.
• They are not eating or drinking.
• They are unable to urinate or defecate.
• Your dog's gums are pale or blue in color.
• Your dog has a bloated abdomen.
• Your dog is crying or howling in pain.

Remember, this list is not exhaustive. If you are concerned that your dog is facing a serious illness or injury, seek medical attention right away.

How to prevent dog illnesses

As a dog parent, your goal is never to see your pup sick. The good news is that there are many things you can do as a responsible pet parent to prevent illness in your dog.

• Schedule annual vet visits: A visit to the vet is one of the best ways to protect your dog against preventable illnesses. Your vet can screen your dog for common diseases, helping catch any signs of potential issues early on. In many cases, it is much easier to treat an illness in the early stages than later. Additionally, your vet can recommend preventative medications and vaccines tailored to your pet’s environment and needs.
• Exercise your dog: Activity is vital for the overall health of your dog. Going on walks, playing games together and engaging in physical activity will help contribute to a healthy weight, which can, in turn, help prevent numerous diseases.
• Feed them a healthy diet: A complete, age-appropriate diet can help keep your dog healthy. Talk to your vet about what nutrients your dog needs during each stage of life to contribute to their health and be sure you are feeding the appropriate amount to prevent unnecessary weight gain.
• Spend time bonding: Your dog relies on you for everything, from the food they eat to the bed they sleep in. But more than that, your dog relies on you for companionship. Help contribute to an emotionally healthy pooch by spending ample time with your dog each day.

As a pet parent, you know your dog best. By spending time each day with your dog, you'll be able to catch any signs of illness early on, and you'll be contributing to their long-term wellbeing.