Dogs have illnesses and diseases that can be mild or very serious, however dogs don't have the ability to verbally express what is ailing them. Most of the problems that dogs have to deal with are minor and will get better with time or can be treated with medications.

Here are three of the common dog health problems that can affect your dog.

Cancer

A serious dog health problem such as cancer can be successfully treated in some cases and cancer is more likely to occur in older dogs. Veterinarians can remove the growths but in some cases they return and have serious consequences.

Symptoms include abnormal growths that typically continue to grow in size, also open sores that don't improve, abnormal bleeding or unusual discharge substances from opening in the body, having difficulty breathing, continual coughing, loss of appetite and not being able to urinate easily. Other signs that may suggest your dog has cancer include a fever, loosing weight, and feeling lethargic.

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There are so many different dog foods available that it is very hard to decide which is best for your dog or puppy. Some people say one brand is best, while others claim home made dog food is the only way to ensure your dog gets the best quality. There is also the raw food diet, which seems to really help dogs with constipation, as well as other problems.

Then what about vitamins, minerals and supplements? If you choose regular dog food, should you get dry or canned? The questions are almost endless.

Basically, start your dog on a high quality dog food (dry or canned, or home made) and watch to see how your dog does. A good indication is the health of your dog; how clear his eyes are, how shiny his coat is and how much energy he has.

A dog’s diet should include a combination of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats and proteins. If it does, then your dog’s needs for growth, tissue repair and exercise will be met.
To ensure your dog gets good nutrition, here are some tips to follow:

1. Ensure your dog always has fresh, clean water.

2. Avoid feeding your dog scraps from the dinner table. This can cause your dog to gain too much weight.

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Are you planning to get a dog soon? Maybe you already have one picked out and will bringing him or her home in a few days. Before you do bring it home, make sure you have a few basic things on hand, including:

1. A good, high quality food for your dog. If you are getting a puppy, make sure the food you have is appropriate for puppies. Talk to the pet store or veterinarian about the most appropriate food for your dog. I highly recommend you don't get the food at a grocery store. The good food is available at pet shops.

2. A leash for walking your dog. Once your dog is off your property, you should always have it on a leash. Since you want your dog to walk beside you, don't get one of those leashes that lets the dog wander off. A short leash is best.

3. A collar and ID tag. Your dog must always have its ID tag on its dog collar. The tag will contain your phone number in case your dog ever gets lost.

4. Two dog bowls – one for water and one for food. Make sure you clean these regularly.

5. Kennel. I hope you will let your dog be inside with you. But if you have to put your dog outside at times, be sure to have a warm shelter available to keep your dog comfortable.

6. Bedding for your dog to sleep in. These come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and can be bought from the pet store or you can make up a comfortable place with old blankets and cushions for your dog to sleep on. A crate is useful for puppy training and to sleep in.

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There are a few things you need to know about dog care if your dog is going to have a good chance of living a long and healthy life. Your dog doesn't need as much care as a baby or small child, but he or she does need your attention and regular care.

Depending on the dog breed you own, your dog might require more attention than other breeds. But basically, every breed enjoys human company and does not require an enormous amount of time to take care of their basic needs.

Identity Tag and Vaccinations

When you first bring your new dog or puppy home, get an identity tag for him or her. If your dog has a tag with your phone number on it, you will be much more likely to get your dog back if it should ever get lost.

Check what vaccinations your local laws require take your dog to the veterinarian for shots and health check-ups on a regular basis. Seriously consider getting the Parvo vaccination if you have a puppy or older dog. Parvo seems to be under control sometimes and then suddenly there is an outbreak. Better to be safe and get the shot.

Dog Food and Fresh Water
Fresh water is extremely important for your dog, especially when it is hot. Be sure your dog has water available at all times.

Your dog also needs a healthy diet. No sugar, chocolate, grapes, or any other food item that is dangerous to a dog's health. Instead feed him or her a healthy dog food that your vet recommends.

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