Dog Health: Common Questions Answered by Australian Vets

Dog Health: Common Questions Our Mobile Vets Hear Every Day

If you own a dog, chances are you’ve Googled a health question at least once often late at night, worried you might be missing something important. From vomiting and itching to appetite changes and limping, many dog health concerns sit in a grey area between normal and needs attention.

As mobile veterinarians, we’re invited into homes across Australia to assess dogs in their normal environment. What we’ve learned is this: most owners don’t want to overreact they just don’t want to get it wrong.

This guide answers the most common dog health questions we’re asked, with clear explanations and realistic guidance on when to act.

“My Dog Is Lethargic - Should I Be Worried?”

Lethargy simply means a reduction in normal energy but context matters.

Short-term lethargy can be caused by:

• Heat
• A big day of exercise
• Mild tummy upset
• Recent vaccination

More concerning signs include:

• Lethargy lasting more than 24–48 hours
• Refusing food or water
• Weakness or collapse
• Behavioural changes (withdrawal, confusion)

In our experience, owners often notice something is “off” before clear symptoms appear. Trust that instinct it’s usually valid.

“My Dog Isn’t Eating - How Long Is Too Long?”

A skipped meal isn’t always an emergency. Dogs, like people, can lose appetite briefly.

Generally:

• 1 missed meal: often okay if behaviour is normal
• 24 hours without eating: worth monitoring closely
• More than 24–48 hours, especially with lethargy or vomiting: veterinary assessment is recommended

Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with medical conditions should be assessed sooner.

“Why Is My Dog Vomiting or Having Diarrhoea?”

Digestive upsets are one of the most common reasons owners seek advice.

Mild cases may resolve with:

• Temporary fasting (adult dogs only)
• Small, bland meals
• Close observation

Red flags include:

• Repeated vomiting
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Abdominal pain
• Dehydration
• Vomiting in puppies or senior dogs

Gastrointestinal signs can escalate quickly especially in smaller dogs.

“My Dog Is Itchy - Is It Allergies or Something Else?”

Itching is not always “just allergies”.

Common causes include:

• Fleas (even if you don’t see them)
• Environmental allergies
• Food sensitivities
• Skin infections
• Hormonal disease

Persistent itching often indicates secondary infection, which won’t resolve without treatment.

One of the most common misconceptions we see is owners changing foods repeatedly without addressing underlying skin disease.

“My Dog Is Limping - Should I Rest or See a Vet?”

Sudden lameness often results from:

• Soft tissue strains
• Minor injuries
• Early arthritis

If your dog is:

• Still weight-bearing
• Bright and comfortable
• Improving over 24–48 hours

… short-term rest may be reasonable.

Seek assessment if:

• Lameness worsens
• Your dog refuses to bear weight
• Pain is obvious
• The issue persists beyond a few days

“Is My Dog in Pain - How Can I Tell?”

Dogs rarely cry out. Pain is often subtle.

Signs may include:

• Reduced activity
• Stiffness or difficulty rising
• Panting at rest
• Behaviour changes
• Avoiding touch

Pain is particularly under-recognised in senior dogs, where changes are often attributed to “just ageing”.

“How Often Should My Dog See a Vet?”

As a general guide:

• Puppies: frequent visits during the first year
• Adult dogs: at least once yearly
• Senior dogs: every 6 months is often beneficial

Regular checks allow early detection which usually means simpler, more affordable care.

When to Seek Urgent Veterinary Care

Regardless of the symptom, urgent assessment is recommended if your dog:

• Has trouble breathing
• Collapses or seizures
• Has uncontrolled pain
• Shows sudden neurological changes
• Is very young or very old and unwell

When in doubt, it’s always safer to ask.

A Vet’s Perspective on “Common” Dog Health Questions

Many of the concerns owners worry about are common but common doesn’t mean unimportant.

Some of the most serious conditions we diagnose begin with vague, everyday symptoms. Early assessment often prevents escalation, stress, and suffering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wait and see if symptoms improve?

Sometimes but only if your dog is otherwise well and symptoms are mild.

Should I Google symptoms before seeing a vet?

Looking for general information is fine, but it shouldn’t replace professional assessment.

Are changes in behaviour important?

Yes. Behaviour changes are often one of the earliest signs of illness.

Is home assessment useful for anxious dogs?

Many dogs are calmer at home, allowing more accurate examinations.

Final Thoughts

Dog health concerns don’t always come with clear answers and that uncertainty is what makes owners anxious. Understanding what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek help can make a huge difference to outcomes and peace of mind.

If something doesn’t feel right with your dog, you don’t need to wait until it becomes obvious or severe. Early, calm assessment is often the kindest step.

Author

Dr James H BVSc
Mobile Veterinarian (Australia)

Written from real-world experience delivering mobile veterinary care across Australia.

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