Dogs of all ages suffer from health concerns, ranging from benign issues to more serious problems that need immediate attention. Being able to spot the signs of illness is essential to your dog’s wellbeing and could mean the difference between life and death. Here are four common health concerns your dog may face.

1. Heatstroke

Dogs are at risk of developing heatstroke in warmer weather and it could potentially be fatal. This is particularly the case for short-nosed breeds, such as boxers, pugs, and bulldogs, who can’t pant in the same way as other breeds. Never leave your dog in a car on a hot day and always make sure he has access to water whenever you go out. Signs that your dog could be suffering from heatstroke include drooling, lacking in energy, excessive panting, darker coloured gums than normal, and collapsing.

If your dog shows any signs of heatstroke, it’s essential that you act quickly. Take him to a shaded spot and cool him down with cold water, then get him to a vet as soon as possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be extremely costly. For peace of mind, it’s therefore advisable to make sure you’re covered should the unexpected happen. Animalia pet insurance offers comprehensive coverage and doesn’t penalise you for making a claim.

2. Gum disease

Periodontal disease – or gum disease – is very common in dogs and so could be a health concern that your own pup might face. The disease starts when dental plaque forms on the tooth surface, causing the gum to become inflamed. As anyone who has ever had toothache will know, gum disease can be extremely painful, so it is important you know the signs.

Left untreated, gum disease can lead to complications for your dog, such as cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation, and certain cancers. Thankfully, there are a few preventative steps you can take to reduce the chances of your dog developing periodontal disease. These include regular tooth brushing, giving your dog chew toys, and following a specific dental diet.

3. Obesity

According to the Royal Veterinary College, canine obesity is becoming an epidemic. We know it’s hard to resist those big sad eyes that plead with you for more treats, but too many tasty snacks could lead to health problems for your dog further down the line. Being overweight or obese can lead to a myriad of health complications in dogs. Obesity will put your dog at risk of diabetes, joint pain, heart problems, and more. Something to keep in mind when you feel tempted to let your dog overindulge in treats.

4. Kennel cough

Kennel cough is an infectious bronchitis and one of the most common contagious diseases in dogs. The main symptom is a hacking cough that might sound as though your dog has something stuck in its throat. Most dogs will recover from kennel cough within a couple of weeks without treatment, though antibiotics can be given if the infection ends up spreading to the chest. If your dog catches kennel cough, it’s advisable to keep them indoors until the infection runs its course to prevent it from spreading to other dogs.