Dog · Guide

When should I take my dog to the vet?

Go immediately for: difficulty breathing, collapse, a swollen or hard abdomen with unproductive retching, suspected poisoning, seizures, or inability to urinate. Book promptly for: vomiting or diarrhoea beyond 24 hours, limping that persists, unexplained weight loss, increased thirst, or lumps that change.

The emergencies that can't wait

A swollen, hard abdomen with retching that produces nothing can indicate bloat (GDV), which is rapidly fatal in deep-chested breeds and needs surgery within hours.

Difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, suspected toxin ingestion, and straining to urinate without producing urine are all same-hour problems.

Uncontrolled bleeding, suspected fractures and heatstroke belong in the same category.

The signs people wrongly wait out

Increased thirst and urination — often the first sign of diabetes or kidney disease, and easy to dismiss.

Gradual weight loss with a normal appetite. Persistent bad breath, which usually means dental disease rather than a cosmetic issue.

Any lump that grows, changes texture, or appears suddenly. Waiting to see rarely helps and often costs options.

Older dogs deserve a lower threshold

"Just getting old" hides a lot of treatable disease. Stiffness, reduced appetite, confusion and toileting changes in senior dogs are worth investigating rather than accepting.

This is why senior dogs move to twice-yearly exams — most of what shortens their comfort is manageable when caught early.

Check your own pet — freeSnap a few photos, get a wellness score in minutes

A wellness check, not a diagnosis — and never a replacement for your vet. If something seems wrong with your animal, see a veterinarian.

Common questions

What are signs of a dog emergency?

Difficulty breathing, collapse, seizures, a hard swollen abdomen with unproductive retching, suspected poisoning, or inability to urinate.

Is my dog drinking more water a problem?

It can be. Increased thirst is often an early sign of diabetes or kidney disease and warrants a vet visit.

How long should I wait if my dog is vomiting?

If it continues beyond 24 hours, or is accompanied by lethargy, blood or a swollen abdomen, see a vet promptly rather than waiting.