Just like humans, dogs also get sick. Several specific ailments are common to dogs and humans, while other diseases are unique to dogs alone. The kinds of diseases affecting dogs can be divided into several categories, including:

• Genetic diseases, such as hip dysplasia, deafness and progressive retinal atrophy;
• Cancer and tumors, such as lipomas, papillomas, melanoma and lymphoma;
• and toxicities to certain substances, such as chocolates, grapes, alcohol and household chemicals.

However, the most common category of diseases affecting dogs remains to be infectious diseases.

Infectious diseases are caused by different organisms, namely viruses, bacteria, parasites and even fungi. Dogs can get infected with these organisms via several routes. Direct spread of these organisms can occur from one dog to another, while other organisms need a specific agent, such as a mosquito, to be transmitted.

One of the most commonly associated diseases with dogs is rabies, which is an infectious disease caused by a virus. Rabies is generally a fatal disease, and is transmitted via the bite of another infected dog. Rabies usually results in the deterioration of the dog’s brain, leading to odd and aggressive behaviors. Drooling and swallowing problems are common with rabid dogs. Dogs with rabies usually die from paralysis of the respiratory muscles. Any human or dog who has experienced a dog bite should be immediately treated with rabies vaccine to prevent serious and deadly consequences.

Another common viral disease in dogs is distemper. It is typically characterized by the presence of eye discharge, cough, colds, diarrhea, difficulty in breathing, and occasionally, paralysis and seizures. Similar to rabies, distemper can also be a fatal disease, especially to puppies. The most important aspect in the management of distemper is prevention via annual vaccination.

Parvovirus is another common disease in dogs. Parvovirus typically presents as bloody diarrhea, loss of appetite and vomiting. Transmission is through contact with contaminated feces. Treatment involves the use of intravenous fluids in order to prevent dehydration. Infection with parvovirus can be prevented by giving your dog the necessary vaccine.

Aside from these diseases, other common viral diseases affecting dogs include herpesvirus, characterized by nasal discharge and bleeding; infectious canine hepatitis, characterized by fever, loss of appetite, bleeding and abdominal pain; and influenza, characterized by fever, cough and runny nose.

Bacterial diseases also commonly affect dogs. Bordetella is a common cause of infectious tracheobronchitis, more popularly known as kennel cough. Leptospirosis is another widespread bacterial disease in dogs, which is characterized by vomiting, stiffness of the muscles and changes in bowel and urine habits. Leptospirosis occurs more commonly during the rainy season.

Dogs are also favorite hosts of parasites. Ticks and fleas are common in households with dogs. Infection with these parasites can become serious, especially with the increased incidence of tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease. Dogs are also usually infected with intestinal worms, including roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. These intestinal worms are usually transmitted in the dog’s feces. Numerous treatments, such as shampoos, conditioners and worm medications, are currently available in the market for various parasitic diseases in dogs.

Heartworm is another serious disease in dogs. It is caused by a parasite that lodges in the dog’s circulatory system and heart. Left untreated, the disease can lead to heart failure and ultimately become fatal. Prevention with a vaccine or heartworm medications are important in order to protect your dog from this disease.

Ringworm infection is the most common fungal disease affecting dogs. The skin becomes infected with the fungi, leading to loss of hair and scaling. Infection with ringworm can be treated by giving your dog specific ringworm medications.

A dog owner is responsible for protecting his dog and providing it with its basic needs. As a dog owner, it is important to be aware of the more common kinds of diseases that can affect your dog. By understanding the basics of these common diseases, you will be able to help in preventing your dog from acquiring these ailments. Proper immunizations and regular check-ups with your veterinarian are essential in pet care, to make sure that your dog is healthy and free of disease. It is also important to recognize when your dog becomes infected with a serious and possibly fatal disease, for you to be able to participate in the management of your dog’s condition. Aside from these, it is also necessary to be acquainted with these basic dog diseases, as some of them can be transmitted to humans. By becoming aware of such illnesses, you are protecting both your dog and yourself from getting infected.