Dog Health Symptom Checker
Symptom checker for initial assessment of health concerns (does not replace veterinary care)
Available
Common breed-related health risks
Some conditions are far more common in certain breeds. This table helps you read symptoms in the context of the breed.
| Breed(s) | Common risks |
|---|---|
| Pug, French Bulldog | BOAS (airway syndrome), heatstroke |
| German Shepherd | Hip/elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy |
| Dachshund | IVDD (disc disease), obesity |
| Bernese Mountain Dog, Rottweiler | Cancer, bloat (GDV) |
| Labrador, Golden Retriever | Obesity, joint problems, cancer |
| Cavalier King Charles | Mitral valve disease, syringomyelia |
| Border Collie | Collie Eye Anomaly, MDR1 mutation |
| Yorkie, Chihuahua | Patellar luxation, dental disease |
When to see a vet — FAQ
When must I take my dog to the vet IMMEDIATELY?▾
Emergency signs requiring immediate care: unconsciousness, seizures, severe breathing distress, blue tongue/lips, bloody vomit, distended belly with unsuccessful retching (bloat!), suspected poisoning (chocolate, grapes, xylitol, rat poison), severe injuries.
When is a 24-48h vet appointment OK?▾
Symptoms like diarrhea, mild vomiting, coughing, limping, or tiredness lasting over 24 hours, but the dog still drinks, eats (even a little), and is responsive. Puppies, seniors, or chronically ill dogs need earlier visits.
Which symptoms can I monitor first?▾
A single episode of vomiting or soft stool without blood in an otherwise lively dog, mild itching, one-off sneezing. If there's no improvement within 24-48h or any worsening → vet.
How do I find emergency vet care?▾
Search "emergency veterinarian near me" — most cities have 24/7 clinics. Save your local emergency number in your phone now.
Which foods are toxic to dogs?▾
Chocolate (especially dark), grapes & raisins, onions & garlic, xylitol (sugar-free gum), macadamia nuts, avocado (pit/skin), alcohol, coffee, raw yeast dough. If ingested: vet immediately.
How do I recognize bloat (GDV)?▾
It's acute and life-threatening. Signs: distended belly, unsuccessful retching, restlessness, drooling, collapse. High-risk breeds: deep-chested giants (Great Dane, Shepherd, Bernese, Boxer). Go to the ER immediately.
What's a normal temperature for a dog?▾
Normal: 38.0-39.0°C / 100.5-102.5°F. Above 39.5°C is a fever, above 40.5°C is an emergency. Use a rectal digital thermometer. Let the dog rest 15 min before measuring.
Why does breed matter for symptom assessment?▾
Breeds carry different risks: Pugs and French Bulldogs for breathing issues, Shepherds for hip dysplasia, Cavalier King Charles for heart disease, Dachshunds for disc problems. The same symptom can be more or less urgent by breed.
Learn more about breed health
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