Common Puppy Illnesses Every Dog Owner Should Know

Having a new puppy in your home is an exciting time that flies by fast, and it’s a critical stage in your pet’s health evolution. A puppy’s immune system takes six months to develop and continues to mature over the next year. This leaves them vulnerable to a variety of puppy illnesses that range from minor to severe.

As such, it’s important to be aware of the most common illnesses in puppies and other health conditions they are at risk of. Based on internal Trupanion claims data, nearly 1 in 2 puppies need unexpected veterinary care before their first birthday. Even the healthiest puppies aren’t immune to getting sick — since our pets can’t communicate that something’s wrong, it’s our job to recognize the signs of a sick puppy and know when to seek medical care.

6 common puppy health conditions

A well-informed pet owner is the best advocate for a puppy’s lifelong health and happiness. While this list isn’t all-inclusive, we’ll explore the most common puppy illnesses, shed light on their causes, and provide insights into prevention and treatment.

Regardless of your puppy’s particular health risks, always keep up with routine veterinary visits and consult your veterinarian promptly if you notice any signs of potential illness. While intended to serve as a useful guide, the information here isn’t a substitute for in-person veterinary care and advice.

1. Gastrointestinal upset

Curious and exploratory by nature, puppies sometimes consume things that aren’t easily digestible or safe, leading to gastrointestinal distress. It should therefore come as no surprise that vomiting and diarrhea easily rank among the most common puppy health issues.

That said, an upset stomach can also arise from many different things, including (but not limited to):

• Sudden diet changes
• Intestinal parasites
• Food intolerances and sensitivities
• Ingestion of foreign objects and toxic ingredients
• Infections
• Stress and anxiety

Most bouts of vomiting and diarrhea are temporary, but medical treatment may be necessary depending on the exact cause. The symptoms of gastrointestinal upset in puppies not only cause discomfort but can also lead to more serious puppy health issues like dehydration. Always monitor your puppy's behavior, seek professional veterinary guidance, and provide plenty of fresh water.

2. Foreign body ingestion

Puppies are notorious for exploring the world with their mouths, which can lead to foreign body ingestion. This common puppy health issue occurs when a puppy eats something they shouldn’t, ranging from socks and corncobs to rocks and even bottles of glue. The consequences of foreign body ingestion can be serious, leading to gastrointestinal obstruction and other complications. 

According to Trupanion claims data, it costs, on average, more than $1,000 for one vet visit when a pet eats something they shouldn’t. For these reasons, it’s essential to create a safe environment where potential hazards are out of reach.

Signs of foreign body ingestion may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Changes in behavior
• Decreased appetite

3. Lameness and limping

Limping is a common puppy health issue that can appear out of nowhere. Puppies, with their boundless energy and playful antics, are notorious for accidentally hurting themselves. After all, they’re still growing and learning how to control their body! Coordination takes time and lots of practice. 

The causes of limping can range from minor issues like muscle strains to more serious conditions such as fractures or even joint problems. Regardless, always consult your veterinarian as soon as you notice a change in your pet’s gait or movements.

Lameness isn't always categorized by limping alone. Signs of lameness in dogs include:

• Difficult walking or standing
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Reluctance to move
• Irritability
• Lethargy

4. Bone fracture

Fractures in puppies, while distressing for both the young canine and their concerned owner, are not uncommon. Given their playful nature and boundless energy, puppies can easily fracture or break a bone during everyday activities and vigorous play.

Signs of a fracture in a puppy include:

• Limping
• Swelling
• Reluctance to bear weight on limb

Pet owners can minimize the risk of accidents by creating a safe environment for their growing puppy, but if a fracture does occur, seek veterinary care promptly. A timely diagnosis and appropriate course of action are crucial to a swift recovery. Treatment may include rest, immobilization, and in severe cases, surgery.

5. Medial patellar luxation (MPL)

Medial patellar luxation (MPL) is a common — but painful — orthopedic condition that affects puppies of all sizes and breeds. This condition occurs when the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, leading to discomfort and potential lameness. Puppies with an MPL may hold their leg out to the side or have trouble walking, indicating pain and instability in the knee joint.

Like many puppy health conditions, MPLs can vary in severity, so it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Treatment options may include medication, physical therapy, and even surgery, but addressing an MPL early on is key.

MPLs can occur in dogs of any age or breed, but small dogs are most commonly affected. Signs of an MPL include:

• Limping
• Sporadic skipping or hopping
• Irregular gait
• Difficulty extending the affected joint

6. Parasitic infection

Parasites, which are organisms that need a host organism to survive, are very common in puppies. If left untreated, parasites can cause a range of health issues, from skin irritation and discomfort, to gastrointestinal, digestive, respiratory, and immune system diseases.

Internal parasites live inside a puppy’s body, such as their intestine or bloodstream. The most common internal parasites are hookworms, tapeworms, and roundworms, as well as Giardia and Coccidia.

While the signs of each parasite may differ slightly, the signs of an internal parasitic infestation include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Blood in stool
• Lethargy
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Dehydration
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Potbellied appearance

External parasites like fleas and ticks, on the other hand, live on the coat or skin of a host. Signs may include:

• Generalized hair loss
• Poor coat appearance
• Excessive itching and licking
• Skin irritation
• Anemia

A mild parasitic infestation can spiral out of control very quickly. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive measures, such as administering parasite control medications, are essential for safeguarding your puppy’s health. 

Protect your best friend from puppy illnesses

Whether you're a first-time puppy owner or an expert at raising puppies, understanding common puppy illnesses is paramount to ensuring your puppy’s long-term health and happiness. While not all puppies will face health challenges, the reality is that you can’t predict what might happen to your pet — or what it could cost.

That’s why it’s a good idea to protect them with pet insurance if you haven’t done so yet. By staying informed and taking a proactive stance in your pet’s health journey, you can enhance their quality of life and strengthen your unbreakable bond at the same time.

Understanding the signs of common puppy illnesses are key to responsible pet ownership, but it doesn’t stop there! Keep learning about your puppy’s health with tips from our dog care guide.