Particularly for the new dog owner, your dog health problem may seem like a mystery you don’t have the tools or clues to solve.
Use this page and the linked pages to learn the signs, symptoms, and appropriate actions to take that will keep your dog a healthy, safe, and happy member of your family for years to come.
Specific Hunting Dog Health Problems
Hunting dogs are gorgeous, energetic, intelligent animals with a love of the outdoors – but that and a strong work ethic can make your dog vulnerable to a dog health issue you would need to look out for.
Heatstroke/Heat Exertion
The most common cause of heatstroke in dogs is carelessness and owners who leave their dogs in a car or enclosed space in warm weather, but hunting dogs may also experience heatstroke from overexertion.
Remember that hunting dogs will often continue to work for you long after they start to show signs of distress.
Signs to watch for include:
- Excessive salivating
- Wild panting
- Wide eyes
- Staggering or swaying
- Weakness
- Dry gums
- Unconsciousness
If you suspect heatstroke, begin treatment immediately, and get your dog to an animal health facility.
Outdoor dangers
- Ticks can cause Lyme Disease, and fungus in the soil can cause Valley Fever.
- Foxtails can cause severe infection and discomfort, and ingesting Poison Ivy or Poison Oak can lead to severe vomiting and diarrhea.
- Snake bites can cause intense pain, disfigurement, and even death.
Always watch your dog outdoors, and know what signs to look for and what to do when your dog comes in contact with any of the problems above.
Tongue injury
Hunting dogs will usually let their tongues flop out while running. When working or playing in wooded areas, this can lead to a common hunting dog health problem: tongue lacerations. Cuts to the tongue can cause lots of bleeding – give your dog a quick drink of water or swim to cool him off, then stop all activity and drinking until the blood has clotted.
Working hunting dog health concerns
Hunting dogs were bred to work, and they love being out on the field doing their jobs. Working dogs are vulnerable to certain common health problems, including:
- Limber Tail syndrome
- Exercise Induced Collapse(EIC)
- Bloat or torsion
- Hypoglycemia
Keeping the indoor dog healthy
Hunting dogs make wonderful companions, and many happily spend time indoors with the family instead of outdoors working. Even if your hunting dog spends more time in the living room than in the field, it is absolutely essential that he gets exercise every day.
Keeping a dog indoors won’t stave off every dog concern – in fact, it can cause a few of its own. Always keep in mind the following:
- Always exercise hunting dogs regularly, even during the cold winter months.
- Watch for indoor poisons – obvious ones like cleaning products, and less evident causes like chocolate and onions.
- Pay attention to weight gain and weight loss – just like in humans, changes in weight can be a sign you need to explore.
Knowing your dog
You won’t always know the cause of your dog’s medical problem – but simply by caring for your dog and knowing his personality and daily routine, you will more often than not be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of pain, discomfort, and illness. Watch for changes in behavior, appearance, and appetite. Even if he can’t tell you why his stomach hurts, he will try to let you know – listen and watch, and you’ll get the message.
