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Canine diseases: Comprehensive information from veterinarians

Health problems in dogs can quickly worsen if they are not detected and treated early. Dog owners should learn about the most common dog diseases, their symptoms and treatment options to protect their four-legged friend's quality of life. In this article, we provide a detailed overview of the most important diseases in dogs – based on veterinary expertise.

Common infectious diseases in dogs

1. Staupe (Canine Distemper)

Distemper is a highly contagious viral disease that affects the nervous system, respiratory tract and digestive tract.

  • Symptoms: fever, nasal and eye discharge, cough, vomiting, diarrhea and neurological disorders such as muscle twitching.
  • Transmission: droplet infection or contact with infected animals.
  • Treatment: There is no specific cure, therapy is symptomatic with infusions, antibiotics for secondary infections and anticonvulsants for seizures.
  • Prevention: Regular vaccination is the best protection.

2. Parvovirose (Canines Parvovirus)

 Parvovirus is particularly dangerous for puppies and can be fatal if left untreated.

  • Symptoms: Severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, fever and lethargy.
  • Transmission: Fecal-oral infection through contaminated surfaces or feces.
  • Treatment: Intensive veterinary care with fluid therapy, antibiotics and anti-nausea medication.
  • Prevention: Early vaccination is also crucial here  .

3. Zwingerhusten (Canine Infectious Tracheobronchitis)

Kennel cough is a collective term for various pathogens that affect the respiratory tract.

  • Symptoms: Dry cough, hoarseness, sometimes nasal discharge.
  • Transmission: Especially in kennels and animal shelters through droplet infection.
  • Treatment: Mild cases often heal on their own, more severe cases require cough suppressants, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
  • Prevention: Vaccinations against Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza viruses are recommended.

Parasitic diseases in dogs

4. Heartworm disease (dirofilariasis)

Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and affects the heart and pulmonary arteries.

  • Symptoms: cough, fatigue, weight loss and, in advanced stages, heart failure.
  • Treatment: The therapy is complicated and is carried out with special worming agents under veterinary supervision.
  • Prevention: Mosquito repellent and prophylactic medication are crucial.

5. Fleas and ticks

Fleas and ticks are not only unpleasant, but can also transmit diseases such as Lyme disease or anaplasmosis.

  • Symptoms: itching, reddening of the skin, crusting.
  • Treatment: Spot-on preparations, collars or tablets that kill parasites.
  • Prevention: Year-round use of suitable parasite prophylaxis.

6. Giardia

Giardia are microscopic small intestinal parasites.

  • Symptoms: Chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss.
  • Treatment: Special medications such as fenbendazole or metronidazole.
  • Prevention: Regular hygiene measures and thorough cleaning of bowls and berths.

Internal diseases in dogs

7. Kidney disease

Chronic renal insufficiency occurs mainly in older dogs.

  • Symptoms: Increased drinking, weight loss, vomiting and loss of appetite.
  • Treatment: Diet food with reduced protein content, antihypertensive drugs and supportive infusion therapy.
  • Prevention: Regular blood and urine tests in old age.

8. Diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease in which the body does not produce enough insulin.

  • Symptoms: Severe thirst, increased urination, weight loss despite a good appetite.
  • Treatment: Daily insulin injections and strict feeding schedules.
  • Prevention: Weight control and a balanced diet.

9. Heart disease

Heart conditions such as mitral valve regurgitation are common in small breeds.

  • Symptoms: cough, shortness of breath, rapid fatigue.
  • Treatment: Cardiac support medications and diuretics.
  • Prevention: Early detection through regular veterinary heart examinations.

Cancers in dogs

10. Tumors and cancer

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in older dogs.

  • Symptoms: lumps under the skin, unexplained weight loss, chronic wounds.
  • Treatment: Surgical removal, chemotherapy, or radiation depending on the type of tumor.
  • Prevention: Early detection through regular palpations and veterinary check-ups.

Skin diseases in dogs

11. Allergies and dermatitis

Many dogs suffer from skin problems caused by allergies.

  • Symptoms: Itching, redness, hair loss and inflamed skin.
  • Treatment: Antihistamines, cortisone or special diets.
  • Prevention: Allergy tests and avoidance of triggering substances.

12. Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis)

Hot spots are often caused by heavy scratching and biting.

  • Symptoms: Weeping, painful areas of skin with hair loss.
  • Treatment: Shaving the affected area, disinfectant solutions and antibiotics.
  • Prevention: Regular grooming and parasite control.

Conclusion: Prevention is the best protection

Dog diseases can have many causes, but most  risks can be significantly reduced with regular check-ups, vaccinations and species-appropriate husbandry. As responsible dog owners, we should take changes in the behavior or health of our animals seriously and consult a veterinarian at an early stage.

 

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