Common Diseases in the Dog, P-Z

COMMON DISEASES AFFECTING DOGS

[All diseases listed under commonly used name]

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DISEASE	ALTERNATE NAMES	DESCRIPTION	SYMPTOMS
PARAINFLUENZA	-	A viral respiratory disease which is usually partly responsible for kennel cough in dogs. Infections can be severe in young puppies, but is rarely serious in adult dogs. Parainfluenza protection is often included in distemper-parvo vaccines and the first vaccine and booster are good for a lifetime of protection.	A dry hacking cough, with similar symptoms to those of kennel cough (more information).
PANOSTETIS	Eosinophilo Panostetis Pano Growing Pains Growing Bones Disease Enostosis	Pain in the long bones of the body during growth. This condition will resolve without treatment	Pain in long bones of legs. Lameness that shifts from leg to leg. Dog may have fever, poor appetite and lethargy.
PARVOVIRUS	Parvo	Highly contagious viral disease	Anorexia, lethargy, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea and dehydration. If untreated can be deadly. (more information)
PYODERMA	Bacterial Folliculitis	Common bacterial skin infection. Most dogs who develop the infection, particularly recurrent infections, have an underlying abnormality of their metabolic or immune systems. Pyoderma is a frequent complication of allergies, skin parasites (mites, fleas) and endocrine diseases, like hypothyroidism. An idiopathic primary bacterial folliculitis is also seen in short-haired dogs.	Itching and Hair loss
PYOMETRA	Uterus Disease / Disease	A collection of pus in the uterus, not uncommon in maiden bitches following a heat cycle. Pyometra is a serious uterine infection that is potentially fatal and can occur in unspayed animals. During the animal's heat cycle, or estrus cycle, her cervix relaxes and opens a little, this can allow bacteria to enter her uterus. When the cervix closes the bacteria is trapped.	Pyometras can be described as open or closed. In the open form the cervix is open and there is a foul smelling discharge from the vagina. In the closed form the cervix is closed so there will be no discharge. The closed pyometra is harder to diagnose and the patient is usually sicker because the body is retaining the infection in the uterus. Symptoms of pyometra include, but are not limited to: very smelly vaginal discharge, enlarged abdomen because of the uterus filling with pus, vomiting, not eating, lethargy, drinking more, urinating more, fever, and dehydration.(more information)
PEMPHIGUS	Pemphigus foliaceus Pemphigus vulgaris Pemphigus erythematosus Pemphigus vegetans	There are several related immune mediated skin disorders called pemphigus complex. More often seen in Akitas, Chow Chows, Dachsund, Cearded Collies, Doberman Pinscher, Schipperke, Finnish spitz and Newfoundland dogs. Pemphigus Erythematosus is second most common and may just be a milder form of pemphigus foliaceus. It is seen more commonly in Collies, Shetland sheepdogs and German shepherds	The more common forms of Pemphigus produce scaling skin, scabbiness and sometimes pus filled sores that look like pimples. Early in pemphigus foliaceus the disease may be confined to the head and feet, making it hard to distinquish from pemphigus erythematosus
POISONING	-	If your dog accidentally ingests any type of natural, plant [more information] or chemical poison, you should contact your vet immediately for advice. If you suspect your pet has had a particularly lethal amount, take your pet to the vet right away. Without witnessing exposure or ingestion of a poisonous substance, poisoning can be difficult to diagnose.	Lethargy or sluggishness Vomiting Lack of appetite Stumbling or staggering Breathing difficulty Seizure - can lead to 'gran mal' seizures and be fatal. Never give your pet any medications unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinarian. Many human medications can have dire consequences to animals, even in small amounts. Never give your dog chocolate, and be aware of you houseplants. Many common household plants can cause kidney damage to your pets if ingested. Keep all medications out of an animals reach, even they can get into a closed medicine bottle. When treating you animal for ticks and fleas, read all product labels before you begin. Follow the safety recommendations given for you and for the animal. Hose-down areas in your driveway or garage in which chemicals have been drained or leaked. A small amount of many chemicals can be fatal to an animal. Be aware of neighbourhood poisons that may be lurking for your pet. Slug or snail baits put out in gardens, patios, and gardens recently treated with insecticides, mushrooms and outdoor plants, rat and mouse poisons.
PERIODONTAL DISEASE	Gum Disease Halitosis	The number one disease that affects a dogs mouth after the age of two years is Periodontal disease.	Bad breath and bleeding red gums are the most consistent signs. Periodontal disease untreated can cause the gums to recede and the supporting ligaments that hold the tooth to the jawbone and the bone itself to become damaged. Deep pockets of infection cause pus, bleeding, and pain. It is best to use pet toothpaste that has been formulated to be swallowed, and an appropriate pet toothbrush. Avoid human toothpaste and Baking Soda. (more information)
PANCREATIC HYPOPLASIA	Juvenile Pancreatic Acinar Atrophy	Hypoplasia is the term for an underdeveloped organ or tissue. One of the most common puppy abnormalities of the pancreas is congenital pancreatic hypoplasia, which is the underdevelopment of the pancreas. Pancreatic hypoplasia, the most common cause of pancreatic insufficiency is genetic and is most seen in German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschers, Saint Bernards, Irish Setters, and Labrador Retrievers	Food is not properly digested, thus preventing its absorption. The degree or severity of symptoms varies with the amount of loss of functional pancreatic tissue. A dog with pancreatic hypoplasia does not have a fully developed pancreas, but whether it is 50 percent or 90 percent developed alters the degree to which it functions. Dogs will generally have loose stools, which can be greasy and foul-smelling. The coat is usually dry and brittle as a result of inadequate fat digestion and utilization. Most dogs have an increased, and often voracious appetite, as they are functionally starved as a result of fecal loss of essential nutrients, but despite this are thin. Coprophagy (stool eating) is common.
PERITONITIS	-	Acute Peritonitis The causes can be from external injury or an internal infection or disease such as bowel puncture from trauma or rupture from disease or ingested foreign bodies.	Acute peritonitis is accompanied by severe pain and abdominal tenderness. The dog usually walks with a stiff gait and the abdominal muscles are rigid. Loss of appetite, vomiting, fever, increased heart and respiratory rate, and symptoms of shock develop in a few hours.
PANCREATIC DISEASE	Inflammation of the Pancreas Pancreatitis	Associated with obesity, poor nutrition, trauma, and tumors. Obstruction of the bile or pancreatic ducts cans also lead to Pancreatitis. Bacterial infections are not a primary cause, but can complicate pancreatitis.	Increased thirst and excessive urination. Bulky, fatty, foul-smelling grey stools, particularly after a high-fat meal. Loss of weight. Nausea, vomiting, flatulence, and other signs of digestive upsets. Poor general condition , particularly of the skin and coat. In severe cases, abdominal pain when the dog will be reluctant to move and will stand with an arched back, and tensed abdomen. Vomiting that occurs some hours after eating (rather than immediately, which is more diagnostic of acute pancreatitis). Diarrhoea, Dehydration, Depression, collapse and shock.

DISEASE

ALTERNATE NAMES

DESCRIPTION

SYMPTOMS

RABBIT MITE

Walking Dandruff

Cheyletiella

These mites can temporarily infest humans causing skin irritation and some itching. In severe cases, some open lesions may occur. Be sure to use an insecticide approved for your species of pet. Rabbits and cats should NOT be treated with permethrin. Rabbits should NOT be treated with fipronil. Dips in lime sulfur and injections of ivermectin have also been used to treat an infestation with these mites but Ivermection should NOT be used on any of the Collie Breeds as the results can be deadly. (more information) Follow your veterinarian's directions regarding the proper use of insecticides in or on your pet.

The mites cause skin irritation, usually along the back of the animal. Infested animals may have slight hair loss, scales (dandruff), itching, and possibly some thickening of the skin.

DISEASE	ALTERNATE NAMES	DESCRIPTION	SYMPTOMS
SHOCK	-	This should not be confused with fright. It is a serious psychological condition.	Panting, rapid or shallow breathing, inability to stand, enlarged pupils, cold ears and paws, paleness and eventually collapse. Contact your vet immediately.
SPAYING [Females}	Neutering	Evidence shows that spaying/neutering dogs gives both positive and adverse health effects in dogs. Apart from the obvious benefit of unwanted attention from a male while the female is in her heat cycle and unplanned puppies, listed are a few other benefits and negatives in both male and female canines. [for negative and positive on males - see Common Name 'Neutering']	Benefits [Bitches] If done before 2.5 years of age, will reduce the risk of mammary tumours Eliminates the risk of Pyometra Reduces the risk of Perianal Fistulas Removes the very small risk from Uterine, Cervical and Ovarian tumours Negative [Bitches] If done before maturity increases the risk of Osteosarcoma Increases the risk of Splenic Hemangiosarcoma, a common cancer and major cause of death in some breeds The risk of hypothyroidism is tripled Increase in the risk of obesity Common cause of urinary incontinence and increasing the risk of persistent UTI More risk of a recessed vulva, vaginal dermatitis and vaginitis, particularly for females spayed before maturity Increased risk of Orthopedic disorders An increase in the risk of a reaction to annual innoculations.
SPONDYLOSIS DEFORMANS	Spondylosis Arthritis of the Spine Osteoarthritis of the Spine	Abnormal fusion or bridging between the vertebrae of the spine.	Stiffness on rising
STING	(Bee sting)	Ensure your pet is breathing normally, as the poison from a bee sting can cause a dog to go into anaphylactic shock. If there is any swelling, or your dog has symptoms associated with it, you should call your vet immediately.	Anaphylactic shock signs would be that your pet appears weak, is trembling, vomits or has diarrheoa. Your dog could also be breathing quickly, wheezing, have pale gums, with a fever and could eventually collapse. In mild cases, you can use an over the counter antihistamine (Piriton) by administering 1 milligram for every pound of body weight, so a ten pound animal would get three quarters of a teaspoon in liquid form, or you can dab liquid antihistamine directly onto the site of the sting. To relieve pain, you can place a cold pack on the affected area for approx 10 to 30 minutes, or make a baking soda poultice. (mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with water to create a thick paste and dab the mixture onto the swelling).
STROKES	Idiopathic Vestibular Syndrome	This tends to occur in older large breeds.	Symptoms are classically a head tilt, characteristic flicking of the eyes from side to side and being very unsteady on their feet, often falling to the same side repeatedly. Dogs become quite disorientated and confused, some dogs panic and can vomit. Try to keep the dog quiet and calm, you may need to give them some support if they want to move around. The dog should be checked by a vet as there is some treatment that can help and most dogs will make a full recovery. If your dog is very distressed it should be seen by a vet as an emergency.
SEBORRHEA	-	There are many causes of seborrhea including metabolic disorders. Some dogs such as Cocker Spaniels, Springer Spaniels, West Highland Terriers, Dobermans, Golden Retrievers, Dachshunds, and Shar-Peis have seborrhea without an underlying cause. This is called idiopathic seborrhea, and not thought to be hereditary. Miniature Schnauzers can contract a specific form of idiopathic seborrhea called Scnauzer Comedo Syndrome which is hereditary.	Seborrhea is a very common skin disorder resulting in excessively greasy or dry skin. The result is a dry, flaky coat that usually has a terrible doggy smell. Secondary ear and skin infections are very common with seborrhea
SWELLING	-	Swelling at the site of an annual booster is not unknown and necrosis can begin.	Most will disappear of their own accord, and only around 1% of animals will are affected.

DISEASE	ALTERNATE NAMES	DESCRIPTION	SYMPTOMS
THYROIDITIS	-	The associated diseases or conditions can be serious: megaesophagus, ruptured knee ligaments, testicular atrophy, cardiomyopathy, excessive bleeding, and corneal ulcers. The disease can be inherited or of unknown or uncertain origin. The diagnosis can be complex; the treatment as simple as supplementing a basic essential hormone.	Canine thyroid disease can be difficult to diagnose.The symptoms can be legion and sometimes contradictory: lethargy, mental lassitude, weight gain, dull coat, skin infections, constipation, diarrhea, cold intolerance, skin odor, hair loss, greasy skin, dry skin, reproductive problems, aggression, and more. For more information http://www.itsfortheanimals.com/DODDS-BEHV-THYROID.HTM
TICKS	External Parasite	Ticks are small, wingless, external parasites. They live off the blood of dogs, and other animals. Ticks are generally much larger than other mites and engorged female ticks of some species reach 30 mm in size.	Quick removal of ticks will help prevent Lyme disease, because the tick must remain attached to the dog’s body for at least one day before the disease can be transmitted. Extreme care must be taken to remove a tick because forceably pulling a tick out from under the skin often leaves the head behind. Careless squeezing of the tick may also force any bacteria from the tick into the bloodstream. The recommended process to remove a tick is to use a special tick remover, or tweezers. You should grasp the tick as near to the skin as possible, and pull firmly, steadily and straight, with no jerking or twisting movements. To kill the tick, you can place it in alchohol. (more information) Another remedy is to cover the tick with a cotton ball soaked in liquid soap and swab for 15 - 20 seconds, the tick will come out on its own, stuck to the octton ball when you lift it away, and is far less traumatic for the dog if the tick is in an awkward place.
TOXICARA CANIS	-	A round white form from 3 - 6 inches long which infects pregnant, nursing bitches, and young puppies.	A very heavy worm infestation will cause puppies to have breathing problems, coughing and sometimes pneumonia. Signs will be abondomal pain, diarrhoea, pot bellied, and puppies will have a failure to thrive and grow. A harsh coat is sometimes seen when the stomach and intestines are full of worms, which may eventually form a complete blockage of the digestive system.
TOXICITY	Chocolate Toxicity	Chocolate is made from the fruit (beans) of the cacao tree. Theobromine, a component of chocolate, is the toxic compound in chocolate	Signs are most commonly seen within 12 hours (or less) of chocolate ingestion. Excitement, nervousness, trembling Vomiting, diarrhoea Excessive thirst, sometimes excessive urination,Muscle spasms, Seizures Coma and possible death due to heart rhythm abnormalities. (more information )
TUMOURS OF THE MOUTH	-	-	(more information)
URINIARY TRACT INFECTION	UTI	Untreated, it can lead to serious repercussions as the infectious bacteria can travel up the urinary tract to reach the kidneys causing serious damage.	pain and difficulty passing urine, sometimes accompanied by blood. A foul smell, fever and lethargy.
VESTIBULAR DISEASE	Old Dog Vestibular Disease	The vestibular is the neurological equipment responsible for perceiving a bodies orientation relative to the earth and informing eyes and extremities how they should move accordingly.	Ataxia (lack of coordination without weakness or involuntary spasms ie: stumbling and staggering around). Nystagmus (back and forth or rotational eye movements. The movements will be slower in one direction. Circling Head tilt Falling to one side Trouble with other nerves controlling the head and face
Von Willebrand's	-	Of all the inherited bleeding disorders in animals this is the most common. The defect isn't autosomal (sex linked) so both males and females can suffer from the “disease.” Because a dog doesn't show symptoms, it doesn't mean it isnt a carrier.	Symptoms suggesting Von Willebrand disease are excessive bleeding, excessive bruising, unexplained nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood in urine and feaces. Breeds most at risk include Bernese Mountain Dog, Coton de Tulear, Doberman Pinscher, Kerry Blue Terrier, Manchester Terrior, Papillion, Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Poodle.
VAGINAL POLYPS	_	Smooth growths, some have stalks on the mucouos lining of the vagina caused by an overgrowth of tissue resulting from continued hormonal stimulation.	A smooth mass of tissue which is usually 1 - 2 cms in diameter appearing suddenly and protuding through the vulva when a bitch is coming to the end of the heat cycle.
VAGINITIS	Inflammation of the Vagina	Mild forms of this condition can be seen in prepubertal bitches, especially in the larger breeds. May be associated with infertility.	Vaginal discharge with frequent licking of the vulva and sometimes inflammation of the surrounding skin.

DISEASE	ALTERNATE NAMES	DESCRIPTION	SYMPTOMS
WORMS	Canine Parasites	Eggs or larvae exist externally, as internal parasites they live off the puppy or dog robbing them of vital nutrients needed to stay healthy. Left untreated, intestinal parasites will stunt the growth and weaken young puppies. Worms and Parasite eggs are shed into the environment via faeces and can infect other dogs. There are many different types of dog and puppy parasites and unfortunately most puppies are actually born infested with 'worms', which can be passed from worm- carrying mothers. The generic term "worms" is usually used to describe Roundworms - the most common of all the canine worms. (more information)	Should you suspect your dog has worms, some of the symptoms include anaemia, dry coat, poor weight gain, diarrhoea, and a bloated abdomen. You should consult your vet for a suitable veterinary treatment to control worms in your dog throughout its life. Puppies should be treated regardless of whether parasite eggs are detected as the eggs of the parasites may not have developed or are not numerous enough to be detected. (more information)
WOBBLERS SYNDROME	Cervical Vertebral Instability Cervical Sponylopathy Spondylolisthesis Cervical Malformation-malarticulation Cervical Vertebral Stenosis Cervical Vertebral Instability	A generalized failure of muscular coordination and weakness that can affect first the rear and then the front legs. As the animal gets older, the space within the vertebrae continues to shrink in relation to the size of the spinal cord.	Unwillingness to bend the neck, weakness and lack of coordination in the rear legs followed by weakness and lack of co ordination in the front legs. Any large breed is at risk, but Great Danes and Doberman Pinchers are the commonly affected breeds. Great Danes are usually affected when they are young at about 1-3 years of age. Doberman Pinchers and other breeds are typically 6-9 years of age when the symptoms begin.