Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
When you adopt a puppy, you have a big responsibility to keep your fuzzy pet as healthy and happy as you can. You'll move heaven and earth for that little ball of fur. Being aware of common puppy diseases can help you quickly notice if anything's wrong, so you can visit your veterinarian right away for treatment. The faster you respond, the quicker your puppy will feel better. Here's a look at 20 diseases and illnesses that can affect puppies.
Respiratory infections
Respiratory infections are a common type of sickness that affects puppies. Here are the top three you'll want to watch for:
1. Canine distemper
Canine distemper is highly contagious and frequently fatal.1 The symptoms your puppy may display include runny eyes, fever and coughing, and sometimes diarrhea, seizures and paralysis. Distemper is one of the core vaccines your puppy should be inoculated against—protection from this deadly puppy virus is paramount.
2. Kennel cough
Kennel cough is another name for infectious tracheobronchitis, which is caused by a variety of viruses or bacteria.2 It's typically mild and resolves on its own, but some puppies might develop a more severe case. Dry coughing is the most common symptom. A number of vaccines may protect against different causes of kennel cough, but your veterinarian will decide if they're appropriate for your puppy.
3. Canine influenza
Canine influenza can cause coughing, fever and a congested nose—similar symptoms to kennel cough.1 It's spread through respiratory secretions or contaminated objects. While there's a vaccine, it's only recommended for at-risk dogs.
Gastrointestinal disorders
Puppies face various gastrointestinal illnesses that may cause vomiting and diarrhea. Here are the four most common puppy illnesses that affect their tiny stomachs:
1. Canine parvovirus
Canine parvovirus is one of the most dangerous puppy viruses, and it primarily attacks the gastrointestinal system.1 It's highly contagious and often fatal.3 It can cause fever, bloody diarrhea and vomiting.1 The vaccine for parvovirus is part of the core puppy vaccination series.
2. Canine coronavirus
Canine coronavirus is not the same virus that causes COVID-19 in humans.4 Symptoms are mostly gastrointestinal (vomiting, appetite loss, diarrhea) and tend to be mild. Vaccines are typically only recommended for immunocompromised dogs or other special cases.5
3. Giardia and coccidia
Giardia and coccidia are single-celled parasites your dog might get by licking contaminated fur or soil, or drinking contaminated water.1 Both can damage the intestinal lining and reduce how well your puppy absorbs nutrients.6 Symptoms may be mild and can include diarrhea, loss of appetite, dehydration or weakness. Infected puppies might be given a three- to 10-day course of medicine to kill the parasite.6
To prevent spread, disinfect kennels and surfaces with one part bleach to 32 parts water.7 Yards should be considered contaminated for about a month.
4. Intestinal parasites
Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms can be diagnosed through fecal testing.6 Some dogs don't show any symptoms, while others may develop severe gastrointestinal symptoms after some time. This is why routine testing is important. Veterinarians will give deworming treatments to infected pets, along with recommending parasiticides to ward off future infections.
Most intestinal parasites don't do very well outside their host. The best way to prevent reinfection is to clean up feces. Most dog internal parasites are transmitted by the fecal-oral route (whereas cats tend to catch them from prey). Puppies can get parasites from their mom as well, so all puppies should be dewormed.
Since tapeworms are transmitted via fleas, clear your home of fleas if your puppy has tapeworms. This involves washing all bedding and linens, along with vacuuming every room and your upholstery.8 You may also need to use a pet-safe flea treatment in your home or yard.
Skin conditions
Skin conditions can be a big cause of infection in puppies. They include:
1. Fleas and ticks
Fleas and ticks are common in some geographical areas, so it's important to use a flea and tick preventive recommended by your veterinarian. Once fleas have infested your home, they're tougher to get rid of.
Sensitive puppies may excessively scratch, lick and bite at their skin, resulting in bald spots or scaling.9 If your puppy has fleas, your veterinarian may prescribe a medicine to kill the fleas on the body. But you'll also need to wash your bedding and your pet's bedding, vacuum floors and upholstery and use pet-safe flea treatments in your home and yard.
Ticks can cause a host of problems in puppies, including diseases like Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and more.10 These can also spread to humans, so it's important to keep ticks off your puppies.
2. Mange
Mange is caused by mites. One species causes sarcoptic mange (scabies);11 another causes demodectic mange.12 Your puppy can become very itchy from sarcoptic mange but less itchy from demodex. Extreme itching may lead to infections.11 Your veterinarian will give prescriptions to kill the mites, and possibly antibiotics or corticosteroids for secondary issues.
3. Ringworm
Ringworm isn't a worm at all, but a fungal infection.1 It typically appears as circular bald patches on your puppy's skin. It can be contagious to people, causing circular rashes on you, too. Your veterinarian will recommend a fungal treatment, and you'll need to see your own physician if you think you may have ringworm, too.
4. Allergies
Allergic reactions can cause a variety of symptoms in puppies. While atopic dermatitis13 is uncommon in puppies less than a year old, allergic reactions in general are still very common in puppies. Symptoms usually include hives and a swollen muzzle/face. Bee stings are a common cause of allergic reactions, but sometimes veterinarians never find out what caused a puppy's allergic reaction. In general, your puppy will need veterinary treatment if the hives and swelling don't resolve in a few hours.
Eye problems
Puppies may face some eye issues too, and it's important to be able to recognize the symptoms:
1. Cherry eye
Cherry eye can occur in dogs of any age, but it's most commonly diagnosed in puppies under one year old14 and in flat-faced breeds.15 A cherry eye occurs when the tear gland in your dog's third eyelid becomes displaced and inflamed. Surgery is often needed to correct the condition. Left untreated, it can lead to keratitis sicca (dry eye).
2. Conjunctivitis
Also called pink eye, this is a common infection caused by bacteria or viruses.14 It's frequently contracted at puppy day cares or dog parks.
3. Corneal ulcer
This is a painful condition that develops if the cornea is scratched.15 This can occur when playing rough with other pets, or by running into brush. Puppies with more prominent eyes are more likely to injure their corneas.
Orthopedic issues
A few orthopedic issues can occur in puppies, particularly if there is a genetic component, such as a susceptible breed.16
1. Congenital hip dysplasia
The congenital type of hip dysplasia can be diagnosed in puppies with susceptible breeds.16 Puppies may need surgery in order to have a good quality of life.
Susceptible breeds include:
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Other breeds with a high prevalence of congenital hip dysplasia showing up on x-rays include the English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Pug, Clumber Spaniel, Sussex Spaniel, Shetland Sheepdog, Norfolk Terrier, Brussels Griffon and Basset Hound. For these breeds, the condition often doesn't present as a serious health risk requiring treatment. Always consult your veterinarian for recommended treatment or care.
2. Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)
This is often a juvenile disorder that's more common in male puppies.17 An OCD lesion occurs when the cartilage isn't connected well to the underlying bone and creates a flap that moves and can break off. It is very painful and requires surgery to correct. It is more common in certain breeds, suggesting a hereditary component.
Other common puppy diseases and conditions
There are a few additional issues puppies may face:
1. Canine hepatitis
Caused by an adenovirus, canine hepatitis is very contagious and can infect multiple organs.4 Severe cases can be fatal, with symptoms including vomiting, jaundice, enlarged abdomen and more. A core vaccine series often includes canine hepatitis.
2. Leptospirosis
Your puppy might get infected from contaminated water, soil or food. Symptoms can be mild or more severe, with weakness, vomiting, fever or kidney or liver failure. Antibiotics are a common treatment.18 Your veterinarian may recommend an optional vaccine.1
3. Urinary tract infection
A puppy who strains to pee, has blood in the urine or suddenly starts peeing in the house might have a urinary tract infection.19 This occurs when bacteria travel up the urethra into the bladder. It's treated with antibiotics.
4. Heartworm disease
Heartworms are a parasite spread by mosquitoes that typically lodge in your pet's heart.4 Late-stage symptoms can be severe and life-threatening. A regular heartworm preventive can keep your puppy safe.
Pets Best can help keep your puppy healthy
There are many common illnesses and diseases that can affect puppies. The good news is that regular veterinary appointments, deworming and proper vaccinations can ensure issues are detected early, when they're easier to treat. And you can help keep your puppy stronger and healthier with proper nutrition, grooming and exercise. If you notice anything amiss, check with your veterinarian right away. Your new furry friend will thank you for it.
Insuring your pet early in life with pet insurance is a great way to help protect your puppy from diseases and illnesses he may encounter growing up. At Pets Best, our puppy insurance plans can be customized for your pet's unique needs. In addition, Pets Best policyholders can speak to a veterinary expert anytime through a 24/7 Pet Helpline. This can be a big help when you have questions about your puppy's health.
Sources/Citations
1. “Disease Risks in Dogs in Social Settings," American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/disease-risks-dogs-social-settings, accessed August 13, 2023.
2. “Tracheobronchitis (Bronchitis) in Dogs," Ned F. Kuehn (10/2022), Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/lung-and-airway-disorders-of-dogs/tracheobronchitis-bronchitis-in-dogs, accessed August 13, 2023.
3. “What You Need to Know About Protecting Dogs from Parvo," (9/2021), Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk/protecting-dogs-from-parvo/, accessed August 13, 2023.
4. “Your Complete Guide to First-Year Puppy Vaccinations," (7/2023), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/puppy-shots-complete-guide/, accessed August 13, 2023.
5. “Canine Coronavirus Vaccine and COVID-19," (4/2020), Animal Care Clinic, https://animalcarevets.com/canine-coronavirus-vaccine-and-covid-19/, accessed August 13, 2023.
6. “Intestinal Parasites in Cats and Dogs," (1/2022), American Veterinary Medical Association, https://ebusiness.avma.org/files/productdownloads/mcm-client-brochures-intestinal-parasites-2022-1.pdf, accessed August 13, 2023.
7. “Disorders Caused by Protozoa in the Digestive System of Dogs," Sharon Patton (10/2022), Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/dog-owners/digestive-disorders-of-dogs/disorders-caused-by-protozoa-in-the-digestive-system-of-dogs, accessed August 13, 2023.
8. “My Dog Has Tapeworms: How Do I Clean My House? (2023 Guide)," Nicole Cosgrove (8/2023), Pet Keen, https://petkeen.com/dog-has-tapeworms-how-to-clean-house/, accessed August 13, 2023.
9. “Flea Allergy Dermatitis in Dogs and Cats," Michael W. Dryden (10/2022), Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/integumentary-system/fleas-and-flea-allergy-dermatitis/flea-allergy-dermatitis-in-dogs-and-cats, accessed August 13, 2023.
10. "Flea and Tick Prevention," Aly Cohen (3/2023), Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/health-info/flea-and-tick-prevention, accessed August 22, 2023.
11. “Sarcoptic Mange (Scabies)," (2020), Fenton River Veterinary Hospital, https://www.fentonrivervet.com/wp-content/uploads/Sarcoptic-Mange.pdf, accessed August 13, 2023.
12. “Demodicosis," (2020), Fenton River Veterinary Hospital, https://www.fentonrivervet.com/wp-content/uploads/Demodicosis.pdf, accessed August 13, 2023.
13. “Atopic Dermatitis," (2020), Fenton River Veterinary Hospital, https://www.fentonrivervet.com/wp-content/uploads/Atopic_Dermatitis.pdf, accessed August 13, 2023.
14. “Common Dog Eye Problems You Should Be Aware Of," (4/2022), Doncaster Vet Hospital, https://www.doncastervet.com.au/pet-advice/common-dog-eye-problems-you-should-be-aware-of, accessed August 13, 2023.
15. "Eye Problems in Dogs," Emily A. Fassbaugh (10/2021), PetMD, https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/evr_dg_eye_problems_in_dogs, accessed August 13, 2023.
16. "Orthopedic Problems in Dogs," Jeff Grognet (10/2021), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/orthopedic-problems-dogs/, accessed August 13, 2023.
17. “Canine Juvenile Orthopedic Diseases," (3/2019), Corydon Animal Hospital, https://www.corydonanimalhospital.ca/canine-juvenile-orthopedic-diseases/, accessed August 13, 2023.
18. “Leptospirosis," American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/leptospirosis, accessed August 13, 2023.
19. “Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Dogs," Malcolm Weir and Robin Downing, VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/urinary-tract-infections-utis-in-dogs, accessed August 13, 2023.