My new dog has abnormal breathing, paw infection, and skin issues. What's wrong?

Poor Max! He could have an infection, clotting problem, or possibly an autoimmune disease. It is concerning that he is hardly moving and I think it would be best if he was examined by a vet to determine the cause of problem and treat. I don't think there is anything that you can do at home without veterinary care to diagnose the problem. Your vet can run lab-work, if needed, to help diagnose and then prescribe medications to treat. Hope he feels better soon!

Max sounds like he is very ill and he likely has an internal illness or organ malfunction that is causing his overall lethargy, heavy breathing (can be a sign of pain, underlying lung disease, heart disease or infection) and unwillingness to move. This sounds serious and there isn't much you will be able to help him with at home, he needs to be seen by your vet. For an older dog I worry about things that may not be treatable and also major illness that can take its toll if not identified quickly and treated quickly. He likely needs bloodwork analysis and chest radiographs to start. Once his underlying illness has been properly identified then the vet can discuss treatment options with you, if available. I am so sorry that Max is so ill, but the next best thing is to take him in and make a decision concerning his quality of life and likelihood of having a positive outcome with treatment. I wish you all the best and hope that things do work out for your pet Max. Best wishes and take care.

Hello, thank you for your question about Max. Based on the photos that you've attached and Max's symptoms it is possible that he has an underlying skin problem such as allergies or infection. Dogs can have underlying allergies to many things both dietary and environmental. I would recommend having him evaluated by your veterinarian so that they can examine the areas and determine the need for additional testing such as a skin scrape or impression to look for bacteria and cells. Hope this helps, good luck!

It sounds like Max is not very well, he might be suffering from worm infestation or possibly from a gastrointestinal virus. I strongly advise taking him to the vet as soon as you can in order to get it him checked, treated and when he is back to health- vaccinated as well.

I am sorry to hear about your concern for Max. With these concerns I would recommend an examination at his veterinarian. Rubbing at the face and small dots could be a sign of allergies. The cough could also be related to allergies but he should be evaluated to ensure there is not another cause. Weight loss should also be investigated by his veterinarian . They may test for parasites, discuss his diet with you, or recommend a dietary change.

Max needs to see his veterinarian today. An increased respiratory rate is never normal and is concerning for heart failure, significant pain, primary lung disease, cancer or pneumonia. All of these conditions require treatment. The veterinarian will take a listen to heart chest and may recommend some radiographs to see the heart and lungs. The ear is not likely related to the respiratory rate unless it is causing significant pain. Mites are possible but yeast and bacterial infections are more common. The doctor will exam the ear as well to get an idea of the cause. I hope he starts feeling better and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Hi, and thanks for your question. This is a quite generic but concerning presentation. Differentials are many, from gastrointestinal diseases causing nausea (infection/inflammations often dietary related) to any disease that can spread systemically (causing lethargy for example) like infection, and anything that can cause pain/discomfort. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!