Dog Health FAQ - Pawssum Mobile Vets

Trusted answers from licensed Australian veterinarians.

Pawssum brings compassionate, stress-free veterinary care directly to your home and we know pet owners have lots of questions about their dog’s health. Below is a comprehensive FAQ covering the issues dog owners ask most often.

General Health & Wellness

How often should my dog see a vet?

Most dogs should have a routine check-up once a year. Senior dogs or pets with ongoing conditions may need visits every 6 months.

How do I know if my dog is in pain?

Signs include limping, hiding, shaking, reduced appetite, restlessness, vocalising, or sudden behaviour changes. If unsure, a mobile vet visit can assess pain safely at home.

What are signs my dog might be unwell?

Watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, unusual lumps, weight changes, lethargy, or not acting like themselves.

What is my dog’s normal temperature and heart rate?

• Temperature: 38.3–39.2°C
• Heart rate: 60–140 bpm
  If your dog’s temperature is above 39.5°C, contact a vet.

Diet & Nutrition

What is the best diet for my dog?

A balanced, high-quality commercial diet suited to your dog’s age, breed, and health. Pawssum vets can advise personalised nutrition during a home visit.

Why is my dog not eating?

Common causes include dental pain, nausea, stress, infections, or something more serious. Loss of appetite longer than 24 hours warrants a vet check.

What human foods are toxic to dogs?

Chocolate, grapes, raisins, garlic, onions, xylitol, macadamias, and alcohol. If your dog eats any of these, contact an emergency vet immediately.

Why does my dog eat grass?

Most dogs eat grass occasionally. Frequent or urgent grass-eating may indicate nausea or digestive upset.

Skin, Coat & Allergies

Why is my dog itching so much?

Itching is commonly caused by fleas, food allergies, environmental allergies, or skin infections. A mobile vet can examine your dog comfortably at home.

Why is my dog losing hair?

Hair loss may be due to allergies, parasites, hormonal issues, or stress. Persistent or patchy hair loss should be assessed by a vet.

How often should I bathe my dog?

Usually every 4–6 weeks, unless your vet recommends otherwise.

Breathing, Coughing & Sneezing

Why is my dog coughing?

Possible causes include kennel cough, heart disease, tracheal irritation, or infections. If coughing lasts more than 48 hours, seek veterinary help.

Is reverse sneezing normal?

Yes it’s usually harmless. Frequent or severe episodes should be discussed with a vet.

Why is my dog breathing fast or heavily?

This may indicate pain, heat stress, anxiety, heart problems, or respiratory disease. Fast breathing at rest should be checked urgently.

Bones, Joints & Mobility

Why is my dog limping?

Common causes include sprains, arthritis, torn ligaments, or paw injuries. Sudden or severe limping should be assessed promptly.

Does my dog have arthritis?

Signs include stiffness, slowing down, reluctance to jump, or difficulty getting up. Pawssum vets can diagnose arthritis and provide treatment at home.

What can I do to support my senior dog’s joints?

Weight control, joint supplements, gentle exercise, anti-inflammatory medication, and supportive bedding.

Digestive Health

Why is my dog vomiting?

Dogs vomit from dietary indiscretion, infections, parasites, or more serious issues like pancreatitis. Seek help if vomiting is frequent or includes blood.

What should healthy dog poo look like?

Firm, moist, brown logs. If your dog has diarrhoea for more than 48 hours, consult a vet.

Why does my dog scoot along the floor?

Scooting often indicates full or irritated anal glands. Pawssum vets can express glands during a home visit.

Behaviour & Mental Health

Why is my dog anxious or stressed?

Common triggers include loud noises, separation, unfamiliar environments, or past trauma. A vet can help identify causes and discuss support options.

Why is my dog suddenly aggressive?

Pain, fear, territorial behaviour, or underlying medical conditions may cause aggression. A health assessment is recommended.

Why does my dog lick everything?

Licking may indicate nausea, anxiety, allergies, or boredom.

Serious Illness & Emergencies

What are signs my dog needs emergency care?

Seek immediate help if your dog has:

• Difficulty breathing
• Collapse
• Repeated vomiting
• Bloated stomach
• Seizures
• Inability to walk
• Bleeding
  Pawssum offers mobile emergency visits in many areas.

Why is my dog drinking so much water?

Excessive thirst can indicate diabetes, kidney disease, or hormonal issues.

What are signs of cancer in dogs?

Lumps, weight loss, lethargy, persistent cough, bleeding, or behavioural changes.

Senior Dog Health

When is my dog considered senior?

Generally, sizes vary:

• Small breeds: 8–10 years
• Medium breeds: 7–9 years
• Large breeds: 6–7 years

How can I improve my senior dog’s quality of life?

Comfortable bedding, joint support, regular vet checks, pain management, and mental enrichment.

How do I know when it may be time to consider euthanasia?

Look for consistent pain, loss of mobility, poor appetite, breathing difficulties, or more “bad days than good.” Pawssum vets can guide families with compassion at home.

Preventative Care

How often should my dog receive flea, tick & worming treatments?

Most dogs require monthly parasite control, depending on the product.

Does my dog need dental care?

Yes dental disease is one of the most common issues in dogs. Regular cleaning helps prevent pain and infection.

When should I vaccinate my dog?

Puppies need multiple vaccines in their first 16 weeks, then annual boosters. Pawssum offers vaccinations at home.

Need a Vet Visit Without the Stress?

Pawssum mobile vets provide:
✔ General check-ups
✔ Skin, ear, and allergy care
✔ Vaccinations & blood tests
✔ Arthritis & pain management
✔ Emergency and urgent care
✔ At-home euthanasia with compassion

Book a home visit 7 days a week across Australia.