Top 10 Common Dog Health Problems

1. Loss of Appetite or Unusual Eating Habits

When it comes to a dog’s daily routine, few things are more reliable than their excitement for mealtime. Whether it’s the sound of a kibble bag rustling or the familiar clink of a food bowl, most dogs are conditioned to spring into action. That’s why a sudden disinterest in food or a noticeable change in eating habits is often the first clue something may be wrong. It’s not unusual for a dog to skip a meal occasionally, especially after intense exercise, a change in environment, or excitement from visitors. However, when a dog refuses multiple meals, eats noticeably less than usual, or seems reluctant to chew or swallow, it could be a sign of something far more serious than simple pickiness.

There are a variety of reasons a dog might lose interest in eating, ranging from the benign to the severe. Dental problems, such as fractured teeth, gingivitis, or oral tumors, can make chewing painful and lead to a reluctance to eat. Likewise, gastrointestinal upset from something as mild as a diet change—or as serious as an intestinal blockage—can make a dog turn away from food. Systemic diseases, including kidney disease, liver disease, or pancreatitis, frequently affect appetite, often accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or a bloated stomach. And in some cases, appetite loss may be one of the earliest indicators of more serious issues like cancer or autoimmune disease, especially if the loss is gradual but persistent.

Behavioral factors shouldn’t be ruled out either. Stress, anxiety, depression, or environmental shifts—like moving homes, new pets, or changes in routine—can affect a dog’s willingness to eat. In multi-pet households, competition or tension between animals can even deter a more submissive dog from approaching the food bowl. Some dogs also exhibit what appears to be “selective eating,” rejecting dry food but showing interest in wet or human food. While this may simply be an issue of palatability, it’s always best to rule out medical causes before assuming your dog is just being finicky.

If you notice appetite changes, consider how long they’ve lasted, whether they’re accompanied by other symptoms, and if the dog is still drinking water and eliminating normally. Don’t wait more than 24 hours to act—especially if your dog is a puppy, senior, or has a known medical condition. Prolonged refusal to eat can quickly lead to dehydration and nutrient imbalances, even organ damage in extreme cases. Bring a record of what your dog has or hasn’t eaten, any vomiting or diarrhea, and any other behavior changes to your vet visit to help expedite a proper diagnosis.

Ultimately, a dog’s appetite is one of the most straightforward indicators of their internal well-being. When mealtime goes from excitement to avoidance, don’t brush it off as a temporary glitch. Appetite loss is a clear signal your dog is trying to communicate, and early intervention could prevent a treatable issue from becoming a life-threatening emergency.

2. Lethargy or Reduced Activity Levels

Lethargy in dogs is often misunderstood as mere tiredness, but in veterinary medicine, it represents a significant change in your dog’s energy and responsiveness. A dog that is lethargic doesn’t just sleep more—it becomes noticeably disinterested in everyday activities, loses motivation to engage with people or toys, and may even struggle to complete simple movements like climbing stairs or walking to their food bowl. For a pet owner, this change can be subtle at first but becomes more concerning when the dog continues to retreat from its normal behaviors over time. Lethargy is a non-specific symptom but often one of the most telling signs that something serious is going on internally.

While dogs of different breeds and ages vary in their baseline energy levels, sudden or progressive fatigue should always be taken seriously. For example, a young Border Collie who refuses to fetch or a senior Labrador who suddenly stops greeting you at the door could both be showing early signs of illness. Common causes of lethargy include infections such as canine influenza, tick-borne diseases like Lyme, or more complex conditions like anemia, hypothyroidism, or heart disease. Pain from arthritis or injury can also manifest as lethargy because the dog associates movement with discomfort and begins to avoid it.

It’s also important to recognize that dogs instinctively mask pain and discomfort to avoid showing vulnerability—a behavior rooted in their wild ancestry. This makes it difficult for owners to detect the severity of the problem until the dog becomes extremely listless. Lethargy can be acute or chronic. In acute cases, a dog may suddenly become weak or collapse, which is often a veterinary emergency. Chronic lethargy, on the other hand, builds up slowly and may be mistaken for aging or laziness when it is actually a sign of deteriorating health.

When evaluating lethargy, it’s critical to observe other symptoms such as pale gums, shallow breathing, vomiting, or changes in appetite. A comprehensive look at your dog’s behavior in different contexts—after eating, during walks, or when someone rings the doorbell—can help determine if their reduced activity level is truly a red flag. In some cases, psychological causes like depression or anxiety may be to blame, especially after major changes like a loss in the family or relocation. But even behavioral causes warrant attention, as they often lead to physical consequences when left unaddressed.

If your dog appears lethargic for more than 24–48 hours, it’s wise to seek veterinary care. Blood tests, X-rays, and physical exams can help rule out or confirm potential conditions. Your vet may also check for dehydration, neurological signs, or fever. Acting early not only shortens the road to recovery—it can be life-saving. When your dog’s body is slowing down, it’s not just being lazy—it may be fighting something silently. Paying attention to these changes and advocating for your dog at the first sign of lethargy is one of the most important responsibilities of pet ownership.

3. Vomiting, Diarrhea, or Digestive Upset

Gastrointestinal upset is one of the most common reasons pet owners seek veterinary attention. Vomiting and diarrhea can range from a mild inconvenience to a life-threatening emergency depending on the severity, frequency, and underlying cause. While a single incident of vomiting or loose stool may not be alarming, repeated episodes—especially when accompanied by lethargy, refusal to eat, or blood—should raise immediate concern. A dog’s digestive system is sensitive to many influences, from diet to stress to infection, and issues can escalate quickly if not properly treated.

Vomiting in dogs can result from benign causes such as eating grass or overeating too quickly. However, it can also indicate more serious problems like gastrointestinal infections, pancreatitis, ingestion of toxins, or even obstructions caused by foreign bodies. Dogs are notorious for chewing or swallowing objects they shouldn’t, from socks and toys to bones and trash. If a dog vomits repeatedly and is unable to keep water down, it risks dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and damage to the esophagus. Projectile vomiting, bile, or vomit that smells like feces are all serious signs of trouble.

Similarly, diarrhea is not always a simple sign of something they ate. Sudden, watery stools can be caused by parasites, bacterial infections, or changes in gut microbiota. Chronic diarrhea, especially with mucus or blood, can indicate colitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or food allergies. In puppies and small breeds, fluid loss from diarrhea happens quickly, making early intervention critical. Keep an eye on the color and consistency of stools—black, tarry feces may signal internal bleeding, while yellow or gray stools could point to liver or gallbladder issues.

In many cases, vomiting and diarrhea come as a pair. This combination is often referred to as gastroenteritis, which can be triggered by viruses, spoiled food, toxins, or stress. It’s not uncommon for dogs to develop GI symptoms after boarding, moving, or after a new pet enters the home. While mild cases can sometimes be managed at home with fasting and bland food like boiled chicken and rice, anything persistent or worsening requires veterinary care. Diagnostic tools such as bloodwork, fecal tests, ultrasounds, or X-rays may be needed to determine the root cause.

Owners should also be wary of “silent” GI symptoms such as gurgling stomach sounds, licking the air, excessive swallowing, or restlessness—all signs of nausea or indigestion. Bloating is another life-threatening condition that can cause both vomiting and distress, and it requires emergency treatment. Never attempt to diagnose or treat these conditions with human medications, as many over-the-counter drugs are toxic to dogs.

Digestive issues are messy, but they’re also one of the clearest ways your dog communicates distress. Prompt, informed responses to GI symptoms not only improve your dog’s comfort but may prevent complications or emergency interventions. Your dog’s stomach is more than a food processor—it’s a barometer of their entire health.

4. Labored Breathing, Wheezing, or Constant Coughing

Watching your dog breathe should be an effortless experience. In a healthy canine, respiration is smooth, steady, and silent. So when a dog begins to struggle for breath, wheeze, pant excessively without heat or exertion, or develop a persistent cough, it’s a red flag that should never be ignored. Respiratory distress in dogs can signal a wide range of medical issues, some of which are time-sensitive and potentially fatal. While coughing or panting may seem harmless on the surface, they are often early symptoms of deeper systemic problems like heart disease, lung infections, or airway obstruction.

One of the most common causes of coughing is kennel cough, a highly contagious but usually self-limiting illness similar to the human cold. It causes a dry, hacking cough that may sound like a honk or gag. Though not typically life-threatening, kennel cough can develop into pneumonia, especially in puppies, seniors, or dogs with weakened immune systems. On the more serious side, chronic coughing can also be a sign of congestive heart failure. In these cases, fluid accumulates in the lungs, making breathing difficult and often accompanied by lethargy, blue-tinged gums, and exercise intolerance. Coughing may worsen when the dog lies down or tries to sleep.

Dogs may also cough due to tracheal collapse, a condition commonly seen in smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Pomeranians. This condition causes the windpipe to flatten, resulting in a honking cough especially during excitement, pulling on the leash, or temperature changes. Similarly, respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia can lead to wet, productive coughs and fever. These infections may be viral, bacterial, or even fungal in origin, and they often require antibiotics or antifungal medication to treat effectively.

Breathing issues may also result from non-infectious causes. Allergies, asthma, or inhaled irritants such as smoke or cleaning chemicals can inflame the airways. Dogs may sneeze, wheeze, or have watery eyes and noses in these cases. More seriously, any indication that your dog is gasping for air, flaring their nostrils, standing with their elbows out, or extending their neck to breathe better could indicate a blockage or severe inflammation in the airway. These are veterinary emergencies and require immediate intervention.

It’s important to note that some respiratory issues stem not from the lungs but from the heart. Conditions like dilated cardiomyopathy, heartworm disease, and mitral valve disease affect how well the heart pumps blood, causing fluid to back up into the lungs and creating respiratory symptoms. Your veterinarian may use chest X-rays, ECGs, and ultrasounds to evaluate both cardiac and pulmonary health when symptoms like these arise.

Ultimately, your dog’s breath is a window into their overall wellness. If your dog is breathing faster than usual at rest (normal is 15–30 breaths per minute), coughing for more than a few hours, or appears anxious or panicked while trying to breathe, don’t wait. Respiratory distress progresses quickly and is not something to “wait and see” about. Your vigilance could save your dog’s life.

5. Excessive Thirst and Urination

Water is essential for every bodily function, so naturally, a dog’s hydration levels are an important marker of health. But just like too little water can be dangerous, so can too much. If your dog starts guzzling bowl after bowl of water and asking to go outside far more frequently than usual, it’s time to consider that something more than thirst is at play. A sudden and sustained increase in drinking (polydipsia) and urination (polyuria) can indicate serious underlying conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver dysfunction, or hormonal disorders like Cushing’s disease.

Dogs normally drink about one ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. Slight fluctuations are expected during hot weather, after exercise, or if they eat more dry food than usual. However, if you notice your dog is draining the water bowl more often, waking up at night to drink, or urinating in large volumes multiple times a day, that pattern isn’t normal. You might also notice urinary accidents in a house-trained pet, damp bedding, or even licking around the genitals more frequently, which are indirect signs that your dog is struggling to regulate its fluid balance.

One of the most common culprits behind these symptoms is diabetes mellitus. In diabetic dogs, the body cannot regulate blood sugar levels properly, leading to glucose spilling into the urine. This causes increased urination, which in turn triggers excessive thirst to compensate for the fluid loss. Another possibility is kidney disease—both acute and chronic forms. Kidneys are responsible for filtering waste and maintaining fluid balance. When they begin to fail, the body struggles to concentrate urine, resulting in both dehydration and the constant urge to drink.

Cushing’s disease, another common condition in older dogs, involves an overproduction of cortisol. It often presents with a “classic triad” of increased thirst, urination, and hunger, along with other signs like a pot-bellied appearance, thinning hair, and muscle weakness. In female dogs, urinary tract infections (UTIs) or bladder stones can also lead to frequent urination, discomfort, and straining. While UTIs are typically treatable with antibiotics, leaving them unaddressed can result in kidney damage or more severe infections.

To assess the issue, your veterinarian will likely run bloodwork, urinalysis, and possibly imaging like ultrasound to check for signs of organ dysfunction or hormone imbalance. It helps if you bring in notes on how much your dog is drinking daily, as well as the frequency of urination. In some cases, your vet may request a water deprivation test or recommend dietary changes and monitoring.

While thirst and peeing might not seem like urgent problems, they are often early signs of chronic and progressive illness. Don’t wait until your dog is dehydrated, disoriented, or weak. These seemingly routine functions are actually key indicators of health, and your dog is depending on you to recognize when they go from normal to excessive.

6. Sudden Behavior or Mood Changes

A dog’s behavior is one of the clearest ways they express how they’re feeling, and when that behavior changes suddenly, it should never be taken lightly. Just like humans, dogs can experience mood shifts, but when these changes appear without a clear trigger and persist over time, they’re often the body’s way of signaling that something isn’t right internally. A usually cheerful, social dog who suddenly becomes withdrawn, irritable, or even aggressive may not be “in a bad mood”—they may be in pain, confused, or suffering from an undiagnosed health condition.

Behavioral shifts can appear in various forms. Some dogs may become clingy and anxious, seeking constant reassurance and refusing to be left alone. Others may go in the opposite direction, avoiding affection, hiding in corners, or isolating themselves from their usual routines and companions. Even small signs like loss of interest in play, disobedience to commands they usually follow, or pacing around the house could signal emotional distress or physical discomfort. These are not just mood swings—they are a window into your dog’s health status.

Pain is one of the most common reasons behind sudden behavior changes. Dogs suffering from conditions like arthritis, dental disease, internal injury, or even gastrointestinal issues often act differently because they don’t want to worsen their discomfort. A dog in pain might snap or growl if touched in a tender area or may avoid stairs, car rides, or being picked up altogether. Neurological problems, such as seizures, brain inflammation, or even brain tumors, can also cause dogs to behave erratically. These dogs might appear dazed, confused, or begin circling or walking in tight patterns. Some may even exhibit episodes of vocalization, shaking, or temporary unresponsiveness.

Endocrine disorders can play a part as well. Hypothyroidism, commonly seen in breeds like Golden Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers, often causes depression-like symptoms, sluggishness, and withdrawal. Conversely, Cushing’s disease or hyperthyroidism can result in restlessness and anxiety. Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), also known as doggy dementia, can cause disorientation, sleep disturbances, forgetfulness, and personality changes in older dogs.

Environmental factors also matter. Recent stressors such as a move, a new baby in the household, a death in the family, or changes in routine can certainly affect behavior. But these tend to resolve gradually once the dog adapts. If the behavioral shift is extreme or sustained, it’s more likely to be rooted in a medical cause and should be addressed as soon as possible. It’s also worth ruling out sensory loss—dogs losing their vision or hearing may become fearful, startle easily, or react aggressively because they are unsure of their surroundings.

Veterinarians often recommend a full physical exam and blood work to rule out physical causes before referring to a behavioral specialist. Pet owners should document the exact behaviors, when they began, and whether anything in the dog’s environment changed at the same time. Early detection of behavioral symptoms can allow for quicker treatment, pain management, and even behavioral rehabilitation if needed. Never dismiss a dog’s behavioral changes as “just getting older” or “being stubborn.” These are often cries for help in a language they hope you understand.

7. Changes in Skin, Coat, or Odor

Your dog’s skin and coat are much more than a cosmetic concern—they serve as vital indicators of internal health and well-being. When something is off inside the body, one of the first places it often shows up is in the condition of the skin and fur. A glossy, smooth coat and supple, pink skin are signs of good nutrition, hydration, and internal balance. On the other hand, a dry, flaky, dull, or greasy coat may point to nutritional deficiencies, allergies, infections, or endocrine disorders.

One of the most noticeable warning signs is excessive scratching, licking, or chewing at certain areas of the body. Dogs who develop itchy skin may be reacting to fleas, mites, food allergies, or contact dermatitis from environmental allergens like pollen, grass, or cleaning chemicals. Persistent itching often leads to secondary bacterial or yeast infections, resulting in red, inflamed skin or open sores known as hot spots. These infected areas can quickly become painful and spread if not treated promptly.

Hair loss (alopecia) is another common red flag. Bald spots can occur from constant licking, fungal infections like ringworm, or hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. Some breeds are more predisposed to certain skin conditions—Bulldogs often suffer from skin fold dermatitis, while Golden Retrievers are prone to seborrhea, which causes greasy fur and flaking. It’s important to identify whether hair loss is localized or generalized and whether the skin underneath appears irritated, discolored, or infected.

Changes in skin color or texture can also be clues. Thickened skin, especially around the belly or armpits, may indicate chronic inflammation or long-standing allergies. Dark pigmentation may develop in response to constant friction or irritation. Scabs, crusts, or oozing lesions can signify autoimmune disorders or parasitic infections, while pale gums may point to anemia or circulatory problems. Swelling or lumps under the skin should be evaluated immediately, especially if they grow rapidly or feel firm to the touch.

Another overlooked but telling sign of illness is odor. Healthy dogs have a neutral or mild smell, depending on their breed and grooming schedule. A strong, foul, or yeasty odor may signal skin infections, especially if it’s coming from the ears, paws, or around the genitals. Ear infections are particularly common in dogs with floppy ears and may include discharge, head shaking, and a strong sour smell. Anal gland issues also produce a very pungent odor, often mistaken for flatulence or “fishy” smells.

Routine grooming is a great opportunity to check your dog’s skin and coat for early signs of illness. Any new bumps, foul smells, changes in hair texture, or excessive itching deserve medical evaluation. Your veterinarian may recommend allergy testing, skin scraping, blood tests, or biopsies to determine the root cause. While many skin and coat problems are treatable, they are often signs of deeper health issues that require comprehensive care. Don’t ignore what your dog’s fur and skin are trying to tell you—they might be the first alert system for something brewing beneath the surface.

8. Noticeable Weight Gain or Weight Loss

Weight changes in dogs are often overlooked or excused until they become extreme, but even subtle shifts in body mass can be one of the earliest signs that your dog is dealing with a serious health issue. Weight gain and weight loss—especially when not tied to changes in diet or activity—are symptoms that deserve careful attention. Unlike humans, dogs don’t experience weight fluctuations due to lifestyle trends or dietary fads. When they gain or lose weight unexpectedly, it usually points to an internal imbalance, illness, or disease process that’s quietly developing beneath the surface.

Unexplained weight loss can be particularly alarming. If your dog is eating normally or even more than usual yet is steadily losing weight, it’s often a sign that their body isn’t absorbing nutrients properly. This could be due to gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or parasites like hookworms and tapeworms. Dogs with diabetes mellitus also often lose weight despite increased appetite, as their bodies are unable to effectively use glucose for energy. Cancer is another major cause of sudden or gradual weight loss, especially if accompanied by lethargy, vomiting, or changes in bowel movements.

On the other side of the spectrum, unexplained weight gain can also be a red flag. Dogs suffering from hypothyroidism—a common condition in middle-aged and older dogs—often experience slow but persistent weight gain, despite no increase in food intake. These dogs may also develop thinning fur, cold intolerance, and sluggish behavior. Cushing’s disease, caused by an overproduction of cortisol, can lead to abdominal weight gain, muscle wasting, and a bloated appearance. Other causes of sudden weight gain include fluid retention due to heart or liver failure, and inactivity from joint pain or arthritis that makes a dog less mobile.

Some dog owners don’t realize their pet has gained or lost weight until they can visibly see ribs, hips, or spinal bones—or until their dog struggles to move, breathe, or get comfortable. That’s why regular weigh-ins at the vet or home are important, especially for senior dogs or those with chronic conditions. You can also perform a simple body condition check at home by feeling for your dog’s ribs and waistline. You should be able to feel the ribs with light pressure but not see them protruding; your dog should also have a visible waist when viewed from above.

Weight changes are rarely isolated symptoms—they are typically accompanied by others, such as appetite shifts, fatigue, coat changes, or gastrointestinal upset. If you notice your dog’s collar seems looser or tighter, their mobility has changed, or their eating habits haven’t matched their appearance, it’s time to get a full medical evaluation. Blood work, thyroid panels, ultrasounds, or fecal exams can help uncover the cause.

Weight gain and weight loss are not simply aesthetic concerns. They are physiological alarm bells that something in your dog’s internal system is off balance. By taking them seriously, you can catch conditions early, implement treatment, and help your dog return to a healthy, active life.

9. Mobility Issues or Trouble Walking

Mobility is one of the most visible aspects of your dog’s health—and one of the easiest to assess if you know what to look for. When a dog suddenly limps, struggles to stand, avoids stairs, or seems hesitant to go for walks, it’s not just a matter of aging or laziness. Difficulty moving can signal joint disease, neurological conditions, injuries, or even systemic illnesses that affect muscle control and coordination. Ignoring these signs can not only prolong discomfort but can allow the underlying condition to worsen or become irreversible.

One of the most common reasons for mobility issues is arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, which affects as many as 80% of dogs over the age of eight. Large breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers are particularly susceptible. The wear and tear on their joints leads to inflammation, stiffness, and pain, especially after periods of rest. Dogs may limp when they first get up, move slowly, or stop playing altogether. Some might resist being touched near the hips, knees, or shoulders. These signs are often mistaken for “slowing down with age,” but they usually point to a treatable condition that can benefit from supplements, anti-inflammatory medications, and lifestyle adjustments.

Neurological issues can also affect a dog’s mobility. Conditions like intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), which affects the spine, can cause anything from limping to full paralysis. Dogs with IVDD might yelp when picked up, drag their back legs, or show signs of incontinence. Degenerative myelopathy, an incurable spinal cord disease most commonly seen in German Shepherds, causes gradual loss of coordination, weakness, and eventual immobility. Tumors, strokes, or brain injuries can also present with unsteady gait, circling, or head tilting.

Injuries are another key concern. Sprains, ligament tears (like cranial cruciate ligament rupture), and muscle strains can all limit a dog’s movement. These injuries may occur suddenly during play or exercise, or may develop gradually through repetitive stress. Dogs often try to mask pain, so even minor limping or refusal to jump should not be dismissed. Fractures or dislocations are typically more obvious and require immediate medical intervention, often involving X-rays or surgery.

Sometimes mobility issues are related to the feet and nails. Overgrown nails, cracked pads, or foreign bodies like splinters can make walking painful. Additionally, dogs with untreated obesity may experience joint strain simply from carrying too much weight. The result is a reluctance to move that further exacerbates the problem in a vicious cycle.

It’s important to act early when mobility changes occur. Treatment options vary depending on the cause but may include physical therapy, medication, surgery, or assistive devices like harnesses and ramps. Keeping your dog mobile improves not just their physical health but their mental well-being, reducing anxiety and depression from inactivity. Movement is vital to your dog’s quality of life, and noticing the first signs of decline can help you intervene before the damage becomes permanent.

10. Eye or Nose Discharge and Facial Changes

Your dog’s face is often the first place signs of sickness will appear. The eyes and nose, in particular, are sensitive, vulnerable, and incredibly telling when it comes to overall health. While a small amount of clear tear or nasal discharge can be normal—especially in windy or dusty conditions—persistent, thick, discolored, or crusty discharge is not. If your dog is constantly squinting, pawing at their face, or showing swelling around the eyes or muzzle, it could point to an infection, injury, or more serious disease.

Eye issues in dogs range from mild to severe, and they can escalate quickly if left untreated. Conjunctivitis (commonly called pink eye) is one of the most common eye problems and is characterized by red, irritated eyes and green or yellow discharge. It can be caused by allergens, bacteria, viruses, or even foreign material like dust or hair. Glaucoma, a condition involving high pressure within the eye, can lead to blindness if not treated quickly. Signs include a cloudy eye, enlarged globe, or severe squinting and pain. Cataracts, common in older dogs and diabetic dogs, cause a milky appearance and declining vision.

Nasal discharge also deserves attention. Clear discharge is generally less concerning unless it’s constant. Thick, yellow, green, or bloody discharge, especially from one nostril, may signal an infection, abscess, or tumor. Dogs with chronic nasal issues may also exhibit sneezing, reverse sneezing, noisy breathing, or a decrease in sense of smell. In some cases, dental infections—particularly in the upper molars—can spread to the nasal cavity, causing a foul odor and purulent discharge. These infections can travel to the sinuses or even the brain if not addressed.

Swelling or asymmetry in the face, especially near the eyes or jaw, could indicate an abscess, broken tooth, cyst, or tumor. Dogs may become reluctant to eat, yawn, or let you touch their head. Facial nerve paralysis, although rare, may result in drooping eyelids or lips and can stem from trauma or disease affecting the cranial nerves. Skin issues like demodectic mange or immune-mediated diseases can also present around the eyes and muzzle with hair loss, sores, or thickening of the skin.

Owners should monitor the color, consistency, and frequency of any discharge, as well as any accompanying signs like swelling, foul smell, or changes in vision or appetite. Photos and notes can help your veterinarian diagnose the issue. Early detection is critical, especially for eye conditions that can lead to irreversible vision loss.

Don’t underestimate your dog’s face as a diagnostic tool. Discharge, swelling, and asymmetry are not cosmetic concerns—they’re windows into your dog’s internal health. By paying close attention to changes in expression and facial cleanliness, you can often spot illness before it spreads or worsens. When your dog’s eyes or nose look different, it’s time to take a closer look at what’s happening beneath the surface.