How to Tell if My Puppy is Sick

This article was approved by Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.

If you’ve recently welcomed a new puppy into your home, you may be feeling a bit anxious about their health. With their boundless energy and endless curiosity, they are prone to getting into all sorts of mischief, which sometimes can lead to health problems. 

Just like human babies, puppies are fragile and have developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to puppy illnesses. 

Let’s dive into  what to look for in a sick dog, so you can act quickly and ensure your furry friend gets the care they need.

Common signs and symptoms of sickness in puppies 

Understanding the common symptoms of sickness in puppies is key to addressing potential health issues before they become serious. 

When puppies aren’t their usual bouncy selves—think quiet, low-energy, not eating, or showing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or respiratory signs such as coughing, sneezing, or a runny nose—it’s usually a clear signal that they’re under the weather. 

Dr. Stephanie Liff

Here’s what to watch for:

Physical symptoms:

• Loss of appetite: When your puppy refuses food, it may signal digestive issues, discomfort, or even an infection. Prolonged lack of eating can lead to dehydration, so it’s important to monitor their intake.
• Reduced energy levels: If your puppy is usually playful but suddenly becomes unusually tired or inactive, it could be a sign of illness. This reduced energy may be due to fever or general discomfort.
• Lethargy: Persistent lethargy or sleeping too much, especially when your puppy seems unable to muster their usual energy, may indicate an underlying infection or illness that needs attention.
• Vomiting: Occasional vomiting is common, but frequent or severe vomiting can lead to dehydration and often points to a more serious health issue. If this persists, a vet visit is needed.
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea in puppies or loose stool can be caused by dietary changes, but if it lasts for more than a day, it could indicate a viral or bacterial infection. Keep an eye on their hydration levels to prevent complications.
• Coughing: A persistent cough can signal respiratory infections, kennel cough, or more serious respiratory diseases. If accompanied by nasal discharge, it’s best to consult your vet.
• Sneezing: While occasional sneezing may be harmless, frequent sneezing or nasal discharge may suggest a respiratory issue that should be addressed by a vet.

Behavioral changes:

• Increased anxiety: If your normally calm puppy becomes unusually anxious or restless, it could be a sign of discomfort, pain, or illness affecting their well-being.
• Unusual aggression: Puppies who are normally gentle might show signs of aggression or irritability when they are in pain or feeling unwell. This change in behavior could be a signal to seek medical advice.
• Withdrawal: If your puppy is suddenly distancing themselves from social interactions or avoiding playtime, it may indicate they are feeling unwell and need to be checked for illness.

Common illness in puppies

Here are some common illnesses that could indicate you have a sick puppy on your hands:

Canine parasites: 

Puppies and adult dogs alike are vulnerable to parasites like worms, giardia, and heartworms. Regular deworming treatments and parasite prevention are essential for your puppy’s health.

Symptoms: 

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Poor coat condition

Parvovirus: 

A serious viral infection that affects puppies, particularly those who aren’t fully vaccinated. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical, as parvo can be life-threatening.

Symptoms:

• Severe vomiting
• Bloody diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite

Ear infection: 

Puppies, especially those with floppy ears, are prone to ear infections caused by bacteria, yeast, or even ear mites. 

Symptoms:

• Frequent scratching at the ears
• Shaking of the head
• Redness
• Discharge from the ears

Kennel cough: 

This highly contagious respiratory infection causes coughing, nasal discharge, and a honking sound when your puppy coughs. Kennel cough often clears up on its own, but it’s best to have your vet check it out to rule out anything serious.

Symptoms: 

• Persistent, honking cough
• Nasal discharge
• Sneezing
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Mild fever

Fleas and ticks:

 Fleas and ticks can cause itching, discomfort, and serious health issues like flea anemia or Lyme disease. Use proper flea and tick prevention to protect your puppy from these pests.

Symptoms: 

• Excessive scratching or biting at the skin
• Red, irritated patches of skin
• Small black specks (flea dirt) on the fur
• Hair loss in severe cases
• Signs of fatigue or fever (tick-borne illness)

What to do if my puppy is sick?

If your puppy is feeling unwell, start by observing them closely and noting any symptoms or changes in behavior. Keep a record of these details to share with your vet—it can help with an accurate diagnosis. Even if symptoms seem mild, it’s best to consult with a vet promptly, as early intervention can prevent more serious issues.

Regular check-ups are also vital during your puppy’s growth. These visits ensure vaccinations are up-to-date and that your puppy’s development is on track. However, if your puppy shows persistent symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing, don’t wait—contact your vet right away.

While waiting for advice or treatment, make your puppy comfortable in a quiet space, offer water to keep them hydrated, and feed them easily digestible dog food unless directed otherwise. Limit interactions with other pets to prevent the spread of contagious illnesses. Above all, stay calm and follow your vet’s guidance to ensure your puppy gets the best care possible.

Preventing future illnesses in puppies

Prevention is easier than treatment. Ensure your puppy receives all vet-recommended vaccinations to protect them from diseases like parvovirus and distemper.

Maintain a clean environment—regularly wash bedding, toys, and bowls to prevent infections and parasites like mites. A balanced, high-quality diet strengthens their immune system, supporting overall dog health.

Before we go…

Monitoring your puppy for signs of illness helps keep them healthy and happy as they grow. Focusing on preventive care and regular vet visits, can prevent many potential health issues. 

Pet insurance can also help reduce unexpected veterinary costs. Explore options like Lemonade’s pet insurance to see how it can benefit you and your puppy.

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A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.