If your dog is vomiting, has diarrhea, is shaking, seems lethargic, or has stopped eating, it can be hard to know how serious it is. This guide explains what each symptom may mean, which warning signs require urgent care, and when it’s safe to monitor your dog at home.

These are among the most common reasons pet owners contact a veterinarian, and knowing the difference between a mild issue and a medical emergency can protect your dog’s health.

Quick Reference: Dog Symptoms and When to Get Help

Use this as a general guide. When in doubt, always contact your veterinarian.

Vomiting once, dog acting normal → Monitor at home; call your vet if it recurs
Vomiting repeatedly or can’t keep water down → Call vet or seek urgent care
Diarrhea under 24 hours, dog active → Monitor; try a bland diet (boiled chicken and rice)
Bloody diarrhea or diarrhea with vomiting → Veterinary care needed
Shaking with other symptoms → Call vet; may indicate pain, toxin, or neurological issue
Not eating for more than 24 hours → Consult your veterinarian
Bloated or swollen abdomen → Emergency: seek care immediately

Dog Vomiting

Vomiting is one of the most common symptoms in dogs. While it often results from something minor, like eating too fast or a brief stomach upset, it can also signal a more serious underlying condition.

Common causes of vomiting in dogs

Eating spoiled food, garbage, or a foreign object
Sudden diet change
Intestinal parasites
Gastrointestinal infection or inflammation
Pancreatitis
Toxin or medication ingestion
Motion sickness

Dogs vomiting white foam or yellow bile typically do so on an empty stomach. This can be harmless (hungry dog) or may indicate acid reflux, gastritis, or bilious vomiting syndrome.

When vomiting requires veterinary care

Contact your veterinarian if your dog:

Vomits more than once or twice in a 24-hour period
Cannot keep water down
Appears lethargic, weak, or unresponsive
Has vomiting along with diarrhea
May have eaten a toxic substance or foreign object
Has blood in the vomit

If your dog is experiencing vomiting reach out to your primary care veterinarian to make an appointment for an assessment. If symptoms are severe or continue to worsen your pet may require an urgent or emergency evaluation.

Call for Emergency Veterinary Services

Find Your Nearest Primary Care Location

Dog Diarrhea

Diarrhea in dogs is extremely common and ranges from a minor dietary upset to a sign of serious illness. Understanding the cause helps determine the right level of care.

Common causes of diarrhea in dogs

Dietary indiscretion (eating something unusual or spoiled)
Sudden change in food
Stress or anxiety
Intestinal parasites (giardia, roundworms, hookworms)
Bacterial or viral infections
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Food intolerance or allergy

When to call a veterinarian for dog diarrhea

Mild diarrhea lasting less than 24 hours in an otherwise healthy, active dog can often be managed at home with a bland diet. Seek veterinary care if your dog:

Has diarrhea lasting more than 24–48 hours
Has blood or mucus in the stool
Is also vomiting
Seems lethargic, weak, or dehydrated
Is a puppy, a senior dog, or has underlying health conditions

Signs of dehydration include dry or tacky gums, sunken eyes, and skin that doesn’t spring back when gently pinched. Dehydrated dogs need prompt veterinary attention.

Find Your Nearest Primary Care Location

Find Your Nearest Urgent Care Location

Dog Shaking or Trembling

Occasional shaking can be normal. Dogs shiver when cold or excited, and some small breeds are prone to trembling. But shaking that comes on suddenly or is paired with other symptoms is a reason to call your vet.

Possible causes of shaking in dogs

Pain or injury
Fever
Anxiety or fear
Toxin ingestion (xylitol, chocolate, grapes, certain medications)
Neurological conditions or seizure activity
Distemper virus or other infections
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially in small dogs
Generalized weakness or illness

Shaking combined with vomiting, lethargy, loss of balance, or collapse may indicate a medical emergency. Do not wait to seek care if multiple symptoms appear together.

Call for Emergency Veterinary Services

Find Your Nearest Primary Care Location

Dog Lethargy

A lethargic dog seems unusually tired, sluggish, or uninterested in activities they normally enjoy, including walks, play, food, or interaction. They may sleep more than usual or seem hard to rouse.

Common causes of lethargy in dogs

Infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal)
Fever
Dehydration
Gastrointestinal illness
Pain from injury, dental disease, or internal conditions
Toxin exposure
Anemia or blood loss
Organ dysfunction (liver, kidney, or heart disease)

If your dog is lethargic and not eating, or lethargic with vomiting or diarrhea, prompt veterinary evaluation is recommended. These combinations are commonly associated with gastrointestinal illness, systemic infection, or pain.

Find Your Nearest Urgent Care Location

Dog Not Eating (Loss of Appetite)

A dog refusing food, especially one that’s usually food-motivated, is one of the earliest signs that something is wrong. The medical term is anorexia, and it should not be dismissed if it lasts more than 24 hours.

Reasons dogs stop eating

Nausea or upset stomach
Dental pain or oral disease
Infection or fever
Internal pain
Stress, anxiety, or environmental change
Systemic illness (kidney disease, liver disease, cancer)
Side effect of medication

If your dog skips one meal but otherwise seems bright and alert, you can monitor for a few hours. If your dog has not eaten for more than 24 hours, or is refusing food alongside other symptoms, contact your veterinarian.

Dog Bloated Stomach: Know the Warning Signs

A visibly swollen or distended abdomen may indicate gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a life-threatening condition sometimes called bloat. GDV occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood supply. Without treatment, it can be fatal within hours.

Emergency signs of bloat (GDV) in dogs

Swollen, hard, or visibly distended abdomen
Unproductive retching: attempting to vomit with nothing coming up
Restlessness, pacing, or obvious distress
Excessive drooling
Rapid or labored breathing
Weakness, collapse, or pale gums

GDV is most common in large, deep-chested breeds such as Great Danes, German Shepherds, Standard Poodles, and Weimaraners. It can occur in any dog.

If you suspect bloat, do not wait. Contact an emergency veterinarian immediately.

Call for Emergency Veterinary Services

When Multiple Symptoms Occur Together

A single mild symptom often resolves on its own. But when two or more symptoms appear at the same time, the risk of a serious underlying condition increases significantly.

Symptom combinations that require veterinary care

Vomiting and diarrhea together
Vomiting and lethargy
Shaking with weakness or inability to stand
Not eating combined with lethargy
Any symptom combined with a bloated abdomen
Any symptom in a puppy under 6 months or an elderly dog

Do not wait to see if symptoms improve on their own when multiple warning signs are present. Rapid deterioration is possible, especially in puppies, seniors, or small-breed dogs.

When to Visit a Primary Care Veterinarian

Not every symptom requires an emergency visit. A primary care veterinary appointment is appropriate when your dog:

Vomits once but otherwise acts normal and is eating and drinking
Has mild diarrhea that started within the last 24 hours and is otherwise active
Shows minor changes in appetite without other symptoms
Appears mildly uncomfortable but is stable
Has recurring digestive issues you want evaluated

Primary care veterinarians can run diagnostic tests, prescribe treatment, and help you understand the root cause of your dog’s symptoms. Many issues that seem worrying are very manageable when caught early.

Find Your Nearest Primary Care Location

Find Your Nearest Urgent Care Location

When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care

Go directly to an emergency veterinary clinic, or call ahead while en route, if your dog:

Is vomiting repeatedly and cannot keep water down
Collapses or becomes extremely weak
Has a visibly swollen or hard abdomen
Is trembling or shaking along with weakness or loss of coordination
Shows signs of severe dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, extreme weakness)
May have eaten a toxin, medication, or foreign object
Has blood in vomit or stool
Has not eaten or drunk water in more than 24 hours and seems unwell

Pieper Memorial Veterinary Center provides 24/7 emergency and specialty care for pets throughout Connecticut. Emergency teams are equipped to stabilize and diagnose serious conditions quickly.

Call for Emergency Veterinary Services

Keeping Your Dog Safe

Changes in digestion, appetite, energy level, or behavior are often the earliest signs that something is wrong. Trusting your instincts as a pet owner matters. If your dog does not seem like themselves, it’s worth a call to your vet.

If your dog develops symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, lethargy, loss of appetite, or abdominal bloating, acting promptly can prevent minor issues from becoming serious ones.

When in doubt, contact a veterinarian. Even a brief phone consultation can help you decide the safest next step for your pet.

A torn “CCL” (aka “ACL” in humans) is, unfortunately, a common injury in our canine companions. We call it a Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) injury, and while the name is a bit of a mouthful, the impact on your dog’s life is very real.

If you’ve noticed your dog suddenly limping, “toe-touching” the ground, or having trouble getting up after a nap, you might be dealing with a CCL issue. At Pieper Veterinary, we see these injuries frequently and are here to help.

What is a CCL Injury in Dogs?

In humans, we have an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in our knees. In dogs, that same ligament is the Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL). Its job is to stabilize the knee joint by preventing the shin bone from sliding forward relative to the thigh bone.

Unlike humans, who often tear their ACL in a single traumatic “pop” while playing sports, dogs usually experience a slow degeneration of the ligament over time. It starts with a small fray—like a rope slowly wearing thin—until it finally snaps.

Common Causes of CCL Tears

While any dog can suffer a CCL injury, there are several factors that make it more likely:

· Genetics and Breed: Certain breeds like Labradors of all types, Rottweilers, Newfoundland, Mastiffs, Saint Bernard, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, American Staffordshire Terrier, Akita, Boxer, and Bulldogs are more predisposed to ligament degeneration.

· Weight: This is the most significant preventable factor. Extra weight puts constant, excessive stress on the knee joints.

· Age and Activity Level: Middle-aged dogs (5–7 years old) who are “weekend warriors”—sedentary during the week but very active on Saturdays—are at higher risk.

· Conformation: The physical structure of a dog’s leg (the angle of their shin bone) can put more natural tension on the CCL.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

CCL injuries can range from a partial tear to a full rupture. Keep an eye out for these red flags:

1. Sudden lameness: Your dog might suddenly hold their back leg up or limp significantly after a run in the backyard.

2. “Toe-Touching”: A dog with a CCL tear will often put just their toes on the ground rather than their full weight.

3. Difficulty rising: You may notice them “bunny hopping” or struggling to get their hind end off the floor.

4. Knee swelling: If you feel the inside of the knee, it might feel “thick” or swollen compared to the other side.

5. A “Clicking” sound: This often indicates a secondary injury to the meniscus (the cushion in the joint), which frequently happens when the CCL is gone.

6. Sitting awkwardly: If your dog is favoring sitting on one hip with the opposite leg sticking out away from their body, this may indicate they have “knee” pain in that leg.

Does My Dog Need CCL Surgery?

The truth is that while small dogs (under 15 pounds) can sometimes be managed with strict rest and bracing, the gold standard for most dogs is surgery to stabilize the joint. A dog’s knee is always at an angle when they stand, the tibia is constantly trying to slide forward. Without a functional ligament, the bones rub together, causing severe pain and rapid-onset osteoarthritis.

At Pieper Veterinary, our board-certified surgeons specialize in advanced techniques like TPLO (Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy). Rather than trying to replace the ligament (which often fails in dogs), we surgically reshape the bone to change the mechanics of the knee, making the ligament unnecessary for stability.

What is the Recovery Process?

The word “surgery” is scary, but the recovery is a structured journey that we take together.

· Weeks 1–2 (The “Quiet” Phase): This is all about healing the incision. Your dog will need to be confined to a small room or crate. Short, slow leash walks for bathroom breaks only. Pain management and medications to facilitate rest are provided for best outcomes.

· Weeks 3–8 (Controlled Movement): We begin to slowly increase the length of leash walks. This is where our Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation team at PVESC becomes your best resource. We use controlled exercises to rebuild muscle without straining the healing bone.

· Weeks 8–12 (The Home Stretch): After follow-up X-rays to ensure the bone has healed, we gradually reintroduce off-leash activity.

The most important thing to remember? Strict rest is non-negotiable. We know it’s hard to tell a happy dog they can’t jump on the couch, but those first few weeks are critical for a lifetime of mobility.

A Note for Cat Owners

While this article focuses on dogs, we haven’t forgotten our feline friends! While much rarer, cats can also suffer from cruciate injuries, usually due to a high-impact fall or trauma. Because cats are masters at hiding pain, look for “hidden” signs like no longer jumping onto high counters or becoming more withdrawn. While the surgical approach is different from their canine counterparts, our team is equipped to aid in deciding on the best treatment course for both our feline and canine patients alike.

The Progression of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a progressive, inflammatory condition affecting the supporting structures of the teeth. It begins when oral bacteria form a biofilm called plaque. If not removed via brushing, this plaque mineralizes into tartar (aka calculus) within 48 hours.

Once tartar forms, it creates a porous surface for further bacterial colonization. This leads to:

Gingivitis: Inflammation of the gingiva, which is the only reversible stage of dental disease.
Periodontitis: Chronic infection of the gums, leading to the irreversible loss of the bone and soft tissue structures that hold the tooth in place. Treatment may likely include teeth extractions in moderate to marked disease.

Increased awareness of pet dental health is vital because these infections do not remain localized. The highly vascularized nature of the gums allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream, which may lead to seeding of bacteria in the liver, kidneys or the heart valves.

Dog Dental Conditions

A common misconception in dog dental care is that hard kibble or recreational chew toys are sufficient for maintaining oral hygiene. While certain textures can provide mild mechanical scraping, they rarely reach the subgingival space—the area beneath the gumline where the most destructive bacteria reside.

We also see the physical trauma associated with inappropriate dog chew toys . Dogs are frequently presented with “slab fractures” on their teeth from chewing on bones, antlers, or nylon toys that are too hard. These fractures expose the sensitive pulp canal, leading to acute pain and inevitable abscesses, or at the very least discomfort while eating. Clinical indicators that a dog may have significant tooth irritation warranting immediate intervention include:

Unilateral chewing (favoring one side of the mouth)
Blood residue left on toys
Receding gumlines or exposed tooth roots
Facial swelling

Cat Dental Conditions

Cat dental care requires close vigilance because felines are biologically programmed to mask discomfort. Cats often continue to eat even with significant oral pain.

The most common problem in feline patients is Feline Tooth Resorption. In this condition, the body’s own cells begin to break down the tooth structure. These lesions are incredibly painful as they eventually expose the nerve, but they are often hidden beneath overgrown gum tissue.

Furthermore, cats are prone to Gingivostomatitis, a complex immune-mediated condition where the mouth becomes severely inflamed in response to even small amounts of plaque. For these patients, a standard cleaning is rarely enough; specialized surgical management is often the only path to a pain-free life.

Routine Dental Care

The above are conditions of significant dental disease, and veterinary assessment and care are warranted in a timely manner.

Just as dentists recommend for people, daily dental care is the gold standard for your pet. Teeth brushing with a soft toothbrush and pet-friendly toothpaste can be a helpful way to mitigate plaque (and ultimately tartar) build-up. Dental-formulated foods, treats, and wipes are great alternatives for pets who resist brushing, each helping to clear away the bacteria that accumulate daily. The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) is a great resource for products.

The Standard of Care in Specialty Dentistry

During Pet Dental Health Month, it is important to distinguish between only a “dental cleaning” and a comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment. At well equipped general practices and specialty clinics, a standard protocol is used to ensure both safety and efficacy of dental care.

Comprehensive Imaging

Visual exams are notoriously unreliable for diagnosis. We use digital dental radiography (“x-rays”) to evaluate beyond what the eye can see. Without X-rays, many painful conditions—such as root decay and exposure, jawbone loss, and retained roots—go entirely undetected.

Monitored Anesthesia

Safe dental procedures require general anesthesia to allow for a thorough cleaning and to protect the airway from aerosolized bacteria. Our protocols include multi-modal monitoring and tailored plans.

Advanced Surgical Intervention

When extractions are necessary, they are treated as oral surgery. This includes the use of local nerve blocks to shut down pain signals at the site and surgical flapping techniques to ensure the site heals quickly, cleanly, and with minimal pain to the pet.

Sustainable Home Maintenance

The goal of pet dental health awareness is to move away from reactive “emergency” dentistry and toward early prevention. Once a pet has been treated through a professional procedure, home care is the primary defense against disease recurrence.

Daily Mechanical Disruption: Brushing remains the gold standard. Even 30 seconds of brushing with a brush and vet-approved enzymatic paste is able to significantly delay tartar buildup.
VOHC Validation: We recommend products that carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal. This indicates the product has met rigorous standards for reducing plaque and tartar.
Regular Oral Exams: Between professional cleanings, owners should routinely watch for “red flags” such as persistent redness at the gumline or a change in breath odor.

Dental disease is one of the most common—yet most treatable—ailments in veterinary medicine. We can significantly improve the longevity and comfort of our patients.

Every healthy pet needs a healthy mouth. If you haven’t scheduled an oral health evaluation in the last twelve months, let this motivate you to book a comprehensive exam.

Dogs ages 1-3 are in their young adult phase, characterized by peak energy and physical development. This guide covers nutrition, exercise, common health issues, and veterinary care for young adult dogs. Understanding ages 1-3 helps you establish healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Understanding Your Dog’s Development (Ages 1–3)

Physical and Behavioral Development

Your dog combines peak athleticism with some lingering puppy behaviors. This life stage is when personality solidifies and the body reaches full strength.

Energy levels: Dogs ages 1-3 are at their most active. Adult teeth are fully developed, though chewing instincts may persist.
Critical metabolic change: Most dogs reach full adult size by age 2 (giant breeds by age 3). Metabolism begins slowing around age 2, meaning unchanged puppy portions now cause weight gain.
The teenage rebellion phase: Around 18-24 months, many dogs test boundaries. Stay consistent; they’ll mature through this phase.

Common Health Concerns Ages 1-3

Foreign body ingestion (peaks at this age; socks are #1)
Weight gain from unchanged puppy portions
Dental tartar begins accumulating
Skin allergies often first appear
Activity injuries from overenthusiastic play

Not sure if your dog is on track? Schedule to assess weight, dental health, and development.

Nutrition for Dogs Ages 1–3

How Much Should I Feed My 1–3 Year Old Dog?

Critical fact: An extra 5 pounds on a 50-pound dog shortens their life by up to 2 years.

Transition to adult food:

Small/medium breeds: 12-15 months
Giant breeds: 18-24 months
Puppy food has too many calories for finished growth

Feeding guidelines:

Measure portions with a measuring cup
Feed twice daily, not free choice
Studies show free-fed dogs are 2-3x more likely to become overweight

How to Tell if Your Dog is Overweight: The Rib Test

Step 1: Run hands along your dog’s sides with light pressure
Step 2: You should easily feel ribs without pressing hard
Step 3: View from above you should see a visible waist

If no waist visible: Reduce portions by 10-15%, reassess in 2 weeks.

Dog Treat Guidelines:

Treats should be max 10% of daily calories. A handful of training treats can easily total 200+ calories which is an extra meal for a medium dog.

Foods to Avoid:

Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, chocolate, xylitol (in some peanut butters). These are genuinely toxic.

Exercise Needs for Young Adult Dogs

How Much Exercise Does a 1-3 Year Old Dog Need?

Dogs ages 1-3 need 60-90 minutes of daily exercise. Consistency matters more than duration; 45 minutes daily beats 3 hours once weekly.

Types of Exercise

Cardiovascular: Brisk walks, running, fetch, swimming, hiking
Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys, training sessions (5-10 min, 2-3x daily), scent work, dog sports

What we often see: Owners skip exercise for a few days, and suddenly their dog destroys the house or develops separation anxiety. Exercise isn’t optional—it’s preventive medicine.

Why Annual Wellness Exams Matter

Annual exams catch problems early when they’re cheap to fix instead of expensive emergencies.

What we check:

Dental disease (82% of dogs have it by age 3)
Weight trends and body condition
Heart, lungs, joints
Skin and parasites

Preventive care basics:

Monthly heartworm prevention (year-round)
Monthly flea/tick prevention
Dental brushing 3-7x weekly

Real talk: Skipping exams because “they seem fine” is how we diagnose stage 3 dental disease. Dogs hide illness incredibly well.

Last checkup over 12 months ago? Schedule with us today.

Common Health Issues (Ages 1-3)

Foreign Body Ingestion

What happens: Surgeries peak at ages 1-3. Socks are #1, followed by underwear, toys, household items.
Signs: Vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain
Prevention: Supervise play, keep items off the floor

Allergies

Signs: Itchy skin, paw licking, chronic ear infections
Action: We identify triggers through elimination diets or testing.

Ear Infections

Risk factors: Floppy ears, swimming, allergies
Prevention: Dry ears after water, clean weekly if prone
Consequences: Untreated infections permanently damage ear canals.

Dental Disease

82% of dogs have periodontal disease by age 3.

Health impact: Bacteria damage heart, liver, and kidneys. Doing nothing shortens lifespan.
Prevention: Daily brushing, dental chews, professional cleanings

Last dental exam over a year ago? Schedule checkup.

Activity Injuries

Young dogs think they’re indestructible. Sprains and strains happen from high-impact activities on hard surfaces.

Prevention: Warm up before exercise, use grass/sand for fetch, avoid repetitive jumping on concrete

Dog Health by Breed Size

Small Breeds (<25 lbs): Dental disease progresses faster. Watch for luxating patellas (skipping steps).
Medium Breeds (25-50 lbs): Easiest window to prevent obesity. Once weight accumulates, it’s exponentially harder to remove.
Large Breeds (50-90 lbs): Hip/elbow dysplasia may appear. Prevent bloat: feed 2-3 small meals, avoid exercise after eating.
Giant Breeds (90+ lbs): Still growing until age 2-3. Keep it lean, every extra pound stresses joints. Shorter lifespan (7-10 years) makes prevention critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a 1-3 year old dog see the vet?

Annual wellness exams minimum. Catches dental disease, weight trends, and issues before they’re serious.

How much should I feed my 1-3 year old dog?

Switch to adult food by 12-15 months (18-24 for giants). Measure portions, feed twice daily. Adjust based on body condition—feel ribs easily, see waist from above.

What are signs my dog is overweight?

Cannot easily feel ribs or see visible waist from above. Reduce portions by 10-15%.

How much exercise does a young adult dog need?

60-90 minutes daily. Consistency matters more than duration.

What are most common health problems ages 1-3?

Foreign body ingestion (socks), weight gain, dental disease (82% by age 3), allergies, activity injuries.

When should my dog transition to adult food?

Small/medium breeds: 12-15 months. Giant breeds: 18-24 months.

Do young dogs still need heartworm prevention?

Yes, year-round at all ages. Prevention is cheaper and safer than treatment.

When to Call Us

Vomiting/diarrhea
Limping
Excessive scratching
Appetite/water changes
Lethargy
New lumps

Not sure if it’s an emergency? Check our emergency guide.

Your Action Plan

✅ Schedule annual exam if >12 months
✅ Body condition check: Feel ribs? See waist?
✅ Start dental brushing 3-7x weekly
✅ Monthly heartworm + flea/tick prevention
✅ Commit to 60-90 min daily exercise
✅ Transition to adult food (12-15 months)

Ready to schedule? Book online or call us at 860-347-8387.

The Bottom Line

Dogs who maintain healthy weight, get regular exercise, receive dental care, and have annual checkups live 2-3 years longer. That’s 20-25% more time together.

The habits you establish now determine how they age at 8, 10, and 12.

Key takeaways:

Adjust portions after age 2 (metabolism slows)
Maintain 60-90 min daily exercise
Start dental care immediately
Schedule annual exams
Prevent obesity now, it’s harder to reverse later
Supervise to prevent foreign body ingestion

Invest in prevention now. Future you and your dog will be grateful.

Questions about caring for your young adult dog? Our team is here to help.

Dog Vomiting, Diarrhea, Shaking, or Not Eating: When to Call a Vet

Quick Reference: Dog Symptoms and When to Get Help

Dog Vomiting

Common causes of vomiting in dogs

When vomiting requires veterinary care

Dog Diarrhea

Common causes of diarrhea in dogs

When to call a veterinarian for dog diarrhea

Dog Shaking or Trembling

Possible causes of shaking in dogs

Dog Lethargy

Common causes of lethargy in dogs

Dog Not Eating (Loss of Appetite)

Reasons dogs stop eating

Dog Bloated Stomach: Know the Warning Signs

Emergency signs of bloat (GDV) in dogs

When Multiple Symptoms Occur Together

Symptom combinations that require veterinary care

When to Visit a Primary Care Veterinarian

When to Seek Emergency Veterinary Care

Keeping Your Dog Safe

Is Your Dog Limping? Understanding CCL Injuries and How Surgery Can Help

What is a CCL Injury in Dogs?

Common Causes of CCL Tears

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Does My Dog Need CCL Surgery?

What is the Recovery Process?

A Note for Cat Owners

We’re Here to Help

A Guide to Advanced Oral Care for Dogs and Cats

The Progression of Periodontal Disease

Dog Dental Conditions

Cat Dental Conditions

Routine Dental Care

The Standard of Care in Specialty Dentistry

Comprehensive Imaging

Monitored Anesthesia

Advanced Surgical Intervention

Sustainable Home Maintenance

Caring for Your Dog Ages 1–3: What to Expect as They Grow

Understanding Your Dog’s Development (Ages 1–3)

Physical and Behavioral Development

Common Health Concerns Ages 1-3

Nutrition for Dogs Ages 1–3

How Much Should I Feed My 1–3 Year Old Dog?

Transition to adult food:

Feeding guidelines:

How to Tell if Your Dog is Overweight: The Rib Test

Dog Treat Guidelines:

Foods to Avoid:

Exercise Needs for Young Adult Dogs

How Much Exercise Does a 1-3 Year Old Dog Need?

Types of Exercise

Why Annual Wellness Exams Matter

What we check:

Preventive care basics:

Common Health Issues (Ages 1-3)

Foreign Body Ingestion

Allergies

Ear Infections

Dental Disease

Activity Injuries

Dog Health by Breed Size

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should a 1-3 year old dog see the vet?

How much should I feed my 1-3 year old dog?

What are signs my dog is overweight?

How much exercise does a young adult dog need?

What are most common health problems ages 1-3?

When should my dog transition to adult food?

Do young dogs still need heartworm prevention?

When to Call Us

Your Action Plan

The Bottom Line