Dogs health conditions
16 plain-English guides for owners whose dog has been diagnosed with something and who want to understand it before the next appointment. Each one covers the signs, how a vet diagnoses it, what treatment usually involves, and what is worth watching at home.
This library is educational reference only. It is designed to help you learn about health conditions your pet may have been diagnosed with — it does not interpret your pet's symptoms, cannot diagnose, and is not a substitute for veterinary care. Cats and dogs often hide illness well, so signs can be subtle. Any new, persistent, or worsening sign warrants a vet visit.
Bones & joints
- OsteoarthritisOsteoarthritis is a progressive, inflammatory joint disease and the most common joint disorder…
- Hip DysplasiaAn abnormal development of the hip joint, with joint looseness (laxity) that leads over time…
- Cruciate Ligament DiseaseRupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in the stifle (knee) — most often from gradual…
Weight & metabolism
Dental & mouth
Skin & parasites
- Ear Infections / Otitis ExternaInflammation of the external ear canal. It is often driven by an underlying allergy, with…
- Atopic Dermatitis & AllergiesA chronic, itchy, inflammatory skin disease in genetically predisposed dogs, associated with…
- Paralysis Tick & Tick ParalysisThe female Australian paralysis tick (Ixodes holocyclus) secretes a potent neurotoxin in its…
- Intestinal WormsSeveral intestinal worms affect dogs: roundworms (look like spaghetti, common in pups)…
Infectious (viral)
- ParvovirusA highly contagious viral disease that attacks rapidly dividing cells, especially the…
- Kennel CoughA highly contagious syndrome caused by several bacteria and viruses — including Bordetella…
- Heartworm DiseaseA parasitic worm transmitted by mosquitoes. Larvae migrate through the body to the arteries of…
Hormonal (endocrine)
- HypothyroidismA deficiency of thyroid hormone — usually from immune-mediated thyroiditis or gland atrophy —…
- Diabetes MellitusA chronic disorder of metabolism caused by a lack of insulin, usually from irreversible loss…
- Cushing's DiseaseA condition of chronic excess cortisol. The most common natural forms are pituitary-dependent…
Digestive