7. Eye or Ear Problems
What to Watch:
- Red, cloudy, or swollen eyes
- Constant pawing at the eyes
- Discharge from eyes or ears
- Foul ear odor or head shaking
What It Might Mean:
- Ear infection, ear mites, conjunctivitis, ulcers, or foreign objects
When to Call the Vet:
- Eye issues can worsen quickly—don’t wait
- Persistent ear infections can lead to hearing loss
8. Urination Issues or Accidents in the House
What to Watch:
- Peeing more or less than usual
- Straining or yelping when urinating
- Blood in urine or sudden indoor accidents
What It Might Mean:
- Urinary tract infection, bladder stones, kidney disease, diabetes
When to Call the Vet:
- Accidents in house are not normal for a house-trained dog
- Blood in urine or straining to pee is always urgent
9. Bloated Stomach or Abdominal Pain
What to Watch:
- Swollen, tight belly
- Pacing, restlessness, and trying to vomit without producing anything
- Signs of pain when belly is touched
What It Might Mean:
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus), which is life-threatening and requires immediate surgery
When to Call the Vet:
- If you suspect bloat, don’t wait. It’s an emergency.
10. Seizures or Collapse
What to Watch:
- Twitching, shaking, or full-body convulsions
- Sudden loss of consciousness
- Dazed look or repetitive behavior post-seizure
What It Might Mean:
- Epilepsy, brain tumor, poisoning, or severe metabolic imbalances
When to Call the Vet:
- First-time seizure or repeated seizures
- Any collapse or loss of consciousness
Bonus Signs That Also Require a Vet Check
- Bad breath: Could mean dental disease or organ problems
- Frequent sneezing or reverse sneezing: May indicate nasal irritation or infection
- Sudden vision problems or walking into objects
- Unusual lumps or bumps that grow quickly
When in Doubt, Call the Vet
If you’re ever unsure whether your dog’s symptoms are serious, always call your vet or an emergency clinic. It’s better to get professional advice than to wait and risk your dog’s health.
Loading ad...
Online Vet Services (for Non-Urgent Issues)
- Vetster
- Pawp (includes emergency fund with membership)
- Fuzzy Pet Health