The dogs They are very vulnerable, since their body is not yet prepared to fight certain diseases. That is why it is always advisable not to take it out until it has the necessary vaccinations that protect them from diseases that can even be fatal for them. In addition, their immature immune system and their natural curiosity (nibbling and sniffing everything) increases exposure to pathogens in the environment.
There are some common illnesses in these early stages, since they are not protected. We must be aware of them to avoid them or know how to recognize them at the right time and know how to prevent them. how to prevent them and act in time. Anyway, the veterinary check-ups are necessary with puppies, especially when we see that something is not right. Keeping a vaccination and deworming schedule a day, along with hygiene, nutrition and stress management, is the basis for reducing risks.
Roundworms or intestinal parasites
This is something very common in puppies, since some are already born with them. It is not dangerous if we catch it in time, giving an internal dewormer to the dogs. In addition, before giving vaccinations they should always deworm so that their defenses don't go down and these can cause bigger problems. They can also appear in adult dogs, so from time to time we should give them the deworming pill. In puppies, the most frequent are roundworms (such as Toxocara canis) and hookworms, which live in the intestine; there are also tapeworm (flatworms) and, less common but relevant, lungworms (Angiostrongylus) or heart worms (Dirofilaria), which can cause respiratory or cardiac signs. Signs include abdominal distension, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, dull fur, and sometimes observation of segments in the feces. The veterinarian will choose the antiparasitic appropriate and will schedule its repetition.
Otitis
Otitis is a ear infection This usually affects dogs with large, hairy ears. It can recur throughout the dog's life, so to prevent it, we'll need to clean the ears. If we notice our puppy tilting its head and scratching its ears a lot, we'll need to take it to the vet to have it checked. Other signs include odours, discharge, redness and pain to the touch. Prevention involves drying thoroughly after bathing, gentle cleansing with specific products and control skin allergies that predispose.
Distemper
This disease is contagious directly through contact with another dog that has it. The dog coughs and breathes poorly, with a lot of mucus, which can be seen in the nose and eyes. If we want to avoid this, vaccinations are necessary, and above all, we should not take the dog out to interact with other dogs whose vaccinations we do not know. Distemper can also affect the nervous system (tremors, seizures), the skin (hyperkeratosis) and the digestive system, so it is key isolate the puppy and go to the emergency room; treatment is supportive and controls secondary infections.
Parvovirus
Parvovirus is one of the more serious diseases in puppies. It is transmitted mainly by contaminated feces and the virus is very resistant in the environment. Typical symptoms are foamy vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes with blood), fever, apathy and lack of appetite; dehydration is the greatest danger. It requires hospitalization and intensive supportive care (fluids, electrolytes, pain control, and bacterial infection control). The best protection is to complete the vaccination plan and prevent the puppy from smelling or licking other people's feces.
Diarrhea and vomiting in puppies
These are very common symptoms and do not always indicate a serious illness. They may be due to dietary changes, intolerances, stress due to moving house, ingestion of strange bodies or presence of parasites. If they are sporadic and the puppy maintains its spirits and appetite, a course of treatment may be prescribed. short fast (as advised by a veterinarian) and a low-fat soft diet (rice or boiled potatoes with chicken/turkey). It is crucial to offer water in small doses to avoid dehydration. If there is fever, marked apathy, blood in vomit or stool, or if the condition recurs frequently, you should be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Frequent external parasites
The external parasites They lodge in skin and hair, feed on blood, and can transmit diseases. They include: fleas (discomfort and allergic dermatitis), ticks (risk of infection; removal must be done by a professional), stable fly in rural settings (can cause anemia) and scabies mites (intense itching, scabs, alopecia). sandflies transmit Leishmania, a chronic disease that causes thinning, skin lesions, and weakness; prevention with repellents and environmental control is essential. Consult your veterinarian. antiparasitic most effective for the area and age.
Internal parasites: types and risks
In addition to the round and flat ones, there are parasites that affect the respiratory system y cardiovascular. The lungworms can cause coughing and shortness of breath, and heart worms (dirofilariosis) lodge in the heart and pulmonary arteries, causing fatigue, apathy, and heart problems. Regular deworming and avoiding contaminated water/objects reduce the risk. A stool examination and, where appropriate, specific tests allow for early detection and treatment.
Other relevant diseases in puppies
canine infectious hepatitis: inflammation of the liver caused by canine adenovirus; it can present with fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice, and, in acute cases, rapid progression. vacuna It is highly effective.
leptospirosis: bacterial and zoonotic, is contracted through contaminated water or urine. It causes high fever, vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), yellow mucous membranes, and kidney and liver damage. It requires antibiotics and sometimes hospitalization. Preventive vaccines are available.
kennel cough (infectious tracheobronchitis): highly contagious in places with many dogs. It is characterized by dry cough and can be complicated in puppies. Vaccines reduce the severity of the disease against several agents involved.
Rage: viral, lethal, and zoonotic; preventive vaccination is essential according to health regulations.
Essential prevention in the first months
Vaccination: Follow your veterinarian's guidelines and avoid contact with unfamiliar dogs and feces until the plan is complete.
Deworming: internal and external, with age-appropriate products; repeat as directed by a professional.
Hygiene and handling: ear cleaning, proper bathing and drying, disinfection of surfaces; avoid potentially contaminated ponds and soil.
Nutrition: quality food for puppies and gradual diet transitions to protect your digestive system.
Safe environment: remove small objects, toxic plants and dangerous products; socialize in a controlled and progressive.
When to go to the vet
Consult immediately if you observe fever, marked apathy, repeated vomiting or diarrhea, blood in stool or vomit, persistent cough, respiratory distress, seizures, dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes), severe pain, or purulent nasal/eye discharge. Early care improves the prognosis in most cases. common diseases in puppies.
With information, prevention and regular visits to the veterinarian, most problems are detected and controlled in timeA well-designed vaccination and deworming plan, combined with hygiene and good nutrition, protects your puppy during the most delicate stage of its life.