Having a new puppy in your home is an exciting adventure for the whole family. During the first few months, your puppy will go through a lot of adjustments, getting used to a new family, new surroundings, and a new schedule. Even the healthiest of pups may come down with a cold or upset tummy during all of this. Spotting the signs your puppy may not feel well early on is crucial so that you can take them to the vet as soon as possible. Fortunately, most of the time, your puppy will bounce back quickly with proper care.
Behavioral Changes
If your usually enthusiastic, energetic best friend is lethargic or unusually clingy, it may mean your puppy is coming down with something or is in pain. Increased aggression or agitation (pacing, heavy panting) may also indicate a health problem, as can lack of interest in usually enjoyable activities like walks and playing with favorite toys.
Physical Changes
Sometimes you can spot a change easily, although occasionally, a puppy will mask discomfort or simply withdraw. Some of the most common physical indications of illness or pain include:
- A patchy coat or rash on the skin, inflammation of any kind
- Drainage from ears or eyes, especially if your puppy scratches or shakes their head a lot
- Weight loss
- Scaly or flaky skin
- Limping or hesitation to walk or run
- New lumps or bumps under the skin
Vomiting or Diarrhea
A puppy’s stomach and digestive tract can be sensitive, and occasional vomiting or diarrhea isn’t cause for alarm. However, if it lasts for more than a day or is excessive, a veterinarian needs to check out your pup to see what’s causing the problem.
Excessive Whimpering or Whining
All puppies whine and whimper as they adjust to a new home, often resulting from temporary anxiety. If your puppy whines all the time or whimpers when touched or after eating, it may be something more. Consult with a vet to see if your puppy needs to be examined for an underlying problem.
Wheezing, Coughing, or Sneezing
Puppies can catch a cold or flu, just like humans. If your new family member is having any kind of breathing issues, it’s time for a trip to the vet. It could be anything from allergies to canine influenza. Early treatment ensures that your puppy’s minor illness won’t become a significant health concern.
Refusing to Eat
Puppies are voracious eaters! If your pup loses interest in food or simply picks at it, they may not be feeling well. It’s essential to make sure they are getting plenty of water even if they aren’t eating to prevent dehydration. If your puppy goes all day without eating, have them checked by your veterinarian.
Puppys R Us Health Guarantee
When you get a puppy from Puppys R Us, you’re getting a healthy, socialized designer or purebred puppy raised by loving breeders. Our breeders focus on the health and well-being of every puppy. We are proud of our health guarantee, which protects you and your family from the distress of adopting a puppy who may be sick.
Make sure your Puppys R Us pet remains healthy and happy by taking them to a vet during the first 72 hours of ownership. Your veterinarian can confirm the health of your designer or purebred puppy and guide you in choosing the right food for optimal health. With proper love and care, your puppy will remain a healthy, happy, and joyful addition to your home!