dog diseases

Though there are many types of dog diseases that should be handled by the specialized veterinarians only, we will discuss some of the common ones and touch upon the various subjects lightly, to get a general idea about our beloved pets. The canine diseases can broadly be classified into genetic, parasitic, viral and bacterial dog diseases. Every disease has its own particular cause but symptoms that the dog is ill, is often clearly visible to the pet owner due to the change in the dog's behavior. While there are more than 300 diseases of canines that can be attributed to hereditary, the most common ones are:
  • Atopic dermatitis,
  • Deafness,
  • Glaucoma,
  • Hip & elbow displasia,
  • Hypothyroidism,
  • Narcolepsy,
  • Progressive retinal atrophy, and
  • Rheumatoid arthritis.

However, their impact can be largely checked by careful breeding practices, inexpensive vet treatments and minor surgeries. Some diseases are specific to dog breeds such as Sebaceous adentitis to Poodles, in which hair loss occurs and coat becomes greasy; and bladder stones in Dalmatians, which can be checked with proper breeding and low-protein diet.

Internal parasites in canines can be Protozoa or worms. Heartworm larva can get into dogs through mosquito bites. External parasites are usually fleas and ticks that are hosts to tapeworms and protozoa respectively. These parasites invade the digestive system and blood streams of the dogs and may cause diseases

  • Babesiosis,
  • Coccidiosis,
  • Giardia, and
  • Leishmaniasis

They should be attended to quickly, as severe protozoa infections may prove fatal. However, most of the dog diseases, especially the infectious ones, are those that are caused by viruses and bacteria.

Bacterial dog diseases include:

  • Brucellosis,
  • Campylobacteriosis,
  • Leptospirosis,
  • Lyme Disease,
  • Rocky Mountain spotted fever,
  • Staphylococcal Infections,
  • Streptococcal Infections
  • Tetanus.

Viral dog diseases include:

  • Adenovirus,
  • Bordatella,
  • Distemper,
  • Hepatitis,
  • Parainfluenza,
  • Parvovirus, and
  • Rabies.

Lyme disease and Leptospirosis and viral diseases can be prevented, if the dog is vaccinated properly. Vaccinations against Rabies are essential as it is fatal to humans too.