what common illnesses do dogs get?

Even the healthiest dogs can sometimes come down with an illness. While regular checkups, vaccines, and preventive care go a long way, it’s helpful for owners to know the most common conditions that affect dogs. That way, you can spot signs early and get veterinary help when needed. 
 
Here are some of the illnesses veterinarians see most often and what you should know about them. 
 

1. Ear infection 

What it is: Dogs are prone to ear infections, especially those with floppy ears or who spend time swimming. Bacteria, yeast, or mites are usually the cause. 
Signs: Head shaking, scratching at the ears, redness, discharge, or a strong odor. 
Treatment: Your veterinarian may take and send out samples, clean the ear, and prescribe medications. 
 

2. Skin allergy  

What it is: Dogs can develop allergies to pollen, food, flea bites, or environmental triggers, which often present as skin problems rather than sneezing and watery eyes. 
Signs: Itchy skin, constant licking or chewing, hair loss, or red patches. 
Treatment: Discuss with your veterinarian. Depending on the cause, management may include flea control, dietary changes, eliminating triggers, medications, or supplements. 
 

3. Dental disease 

What it is: A common condition in dogs, especially as they age, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, infection, or tooth loss. 
Signs: Bad breath, yellow or brown buildup on teeth, red or bleeding gums, difficulty chewing, losing teeth, or drooling. 
Treatment: Professional dental cleanings at the vet, along with at-home care like brushing and dental chews. Your veterinarian may also recommend more advanced surgical dental care.  
Prevention: Our Active Care Plus Optimum Wellness Plans® include a yearly dental cleaning. Learn more. 
 

4. Intestinal parasite 

What it is: Worms like roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms live in the digestive tract. Dogs can pick them up from soil, contaminated water, fleas, or other animals. 
Signs: Diarrhea, weight loss, bloated belly, dull coat, or visible worms/segments in stool. 
Treatment: Prescription deworming medication and routine fecal exams.  
Prevention: Preventive medication can help avoid infections. Learn more about the importance of preventive medication for intestinal parasites.  
 

5. Kennel cough (canine infectious respiratory disease complex) 

What it is: This contagious respiratory infection spreads in places where dogs gather such as boarding facilities, dog parks, or grooming salons. 
Signs: A dry hacking cough, sneezing, nasal discharge, or decreased energy. 
Treatment: Many cases resolve with rest and supportive care, but some dogs will require more advanced medical treatment.  
Prevention: Vaccines can help prevent kennel cough and reduce the severity of symptoms. Learn more about kennel cough.  
 

6. Parvovirus 

What it is: A serious and highly contagious viral disease, especially dangerous for puppies, it attacks the gastrointestinal tract and white blood cells and can be life-threatening without prompt treatment. 
Signs: Vomiting, bloody diarrhea, lethargy, dehydration, and loss of appetite. 
Treatment: Immediate veterinary care that often requires hospitalization and IV medications. Vaccination is the best protection. 
 

7. Obesity 

What it is: Carrying excess weight can increase the risk of diabetes, joint problems, heart disease, and shortened life span.  
Signs: Difficulty feeling ribs, reduced stamina, reluctance to exercise, or visible weight gain. 
Treatment: Work with your veterinarian on a safe weight loss and maintenance plan involving diet changes and exercise. We’ve got tips to help you manage your pet’s weight.  
 

8. Arthritis 

What it is: Common in older dogs, arthritis is inflammation of the joints that leads to stiffness and pain. 
Signs: Limping, difficulty standing up, reluctance to climb stairs or jump, or changes in activity level. 
Treatment: Your veterinarian might recommend weight management, joint supplements, medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle adjustments to help improve comfort. Learn more about arthritis and how Banfield can support your pet.  
 

9. Diabetes 

What it is: This metabolic condition affects the body’s ability to properly regulate blood sugar. 
Signs: Increased thirst, frequent urination, weight loss despite normal or increased appetite, or lethargy. 
Treatment: Requires veterinary care, often including insulin or dietary management. Learn more about diabetes and your pet.  
 

10. Cancer 

What it is: Dogs can develop different types of cancer, especially as they age. Some are treatable with surgery, chemotherapy, or other therapies, while others are more difficult to manage. 
Signs: Lumps, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, swelling, or difficulty breathing. 
Treatment: While it depends on the type and stage, early detection provides the best chance for effective treatment. Learn more about cancer and pets.  
 

11. Canine flu  

What it is: Canine influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by the H3N8 or H3N2 flu viruses that affect dogs. It spreads quickly in places where dogs gather, such as kennels, daycare facilities, and dog parks. 
Signs: Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, fever, and lethargy.  
Treatment: Most dogs recover with supportive care, but veterinary attention is important to reduce complications. Infected dogs should be kept away from others to prevent spreading the virus.  
Prevention: Vaccines are available and recommended for dogs who are frequently exposed to group environments. Learn more about canine flu.  
 

12. Heartworm disease 

What it is: Heartworm disease is caused by parasites spread by mosquitoes. Once inside the body, heartworm larvae grow into footlong worms that live in the heart and blood vessels. This condition can be life-threatening and have lifelong consequences even after successful treatment. 
Signs: As the disease progresses, you may notice coughing, fatigue after mild activity, weight loss, or difficulty breathing. Severe cases can lead to heart failure. 
Treatment: Heartworm treatment is complex and costly. That’s why prevention is key.  
Prevention: Monthly preventive medications prescribed by your veterinarian are the safest and most effective way to protect your dog. Learn more about heartworm disease and prevention.  
 
Not every illness is preventable, but regular checkups, vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care can greatly reduce your dog’s risks. Catching problems early often means more treatment options and better outcomes. 
 
By keeping an eye out for changes in behavior, appetite, or energy, and by partnering with your veterinary team, you can help your dog live a longer, healthier life. 
 
Important Notice: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet's health or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional veterinary advice based on information from this page.