Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time filled with cuddles, playtime, and creating memories. However, puppies are particularly vulnerable to various health issues during their first year of life. As Coastal Creek Animal Hospital veterinarians, we see many concerned puppy parents who could have avoided emergency visits with some basic knowledge about common puppy illnesses. This guide will help you recognize early warning signs and take preventative measures to keep your furry family member healthy and happy.

Why Puppies Are More Susceptible to Illness

Puppies have immature immune systems that are still developing, making them more vulnerable to infections and diseases than adult dogs. Additionally, the stress of changing environments, new diets, and exposure to other animals can further compromise their immunity. Understanding this vulnerability is the first step in protecting your new companion.

Most Common Puppy Illnesses and Their Symptoms

Parvovirus

Parvovirus is a highly contagious viral disease that affects unvaccinated puppies, particularly those between six weeks and six months old.

Symptoms to watch for:

  • Severe, often bloody diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever
  • Dehydration

Prevention: Vaccination is the most effective prevention method. Puppies should receive a series of parvovirus vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Limit your puppy’s exposure to unvaccinated dogs and avoid public areas until your puppy has completed their vaccination series.

Canine Distemper

Distemper is another serious viral disease that affects multiple body systems, including respiratory, gastrointestinal, and eventually, the nervous system.

Symptoms to watch for:

  • Fever
  • Nasal and eye discharge
  • Coughing
  • Lethargy
  • Reduced appetite
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Hardening of foot pads
  • Neurological symptoms (seizures, muscle twitches) in advanced cases

Prevention: The distemper vaccine is typically administered as part of your puppy’s core vaccination series. Follow your veterinarian’s recommended vaccination schedule closely.

Kennel Cough (Bordetella)

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection commonly found in places where dogs congregate, such as boarding facilities, dog parks, and training classes.

Symptoms to watch for:

  • Persistent, forceful cough (often sounds like a goose honk)
  • Retching or gagging
  • Nasal discharge
  • Mild fever
  • In severe cases, lethargy and reduced appetite

Prevention: The Bordetella vaccine helps protect against kennel cough. If you plan to board your puppy or attend puppy classes, this vaccine is typically required.

Intestinal Parasites

Puppies commonly contract intestinal parasites from their mother or environment. Common parasites include roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and coccidia.

Symptoms to watch for:

  • Diarrhea (sometimes with blood or mucus)
  • Vomiting
  • Pot-bellied appearance
  • Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite
  • Dull coat
  • Visible worms in stool or vomit
  • Scooting or licking the anal area (with tapeworms)

Prevention: Regular deworming is essential for puppies, typically starting at 2 weeks of age and continuing every 2-3 weeks until 12 weeks of age, then monthly until 6 months of age. Adult dogs should receive preventative medication year-round. Prompt removal of feces from your yard also helps prevent reinfection.

External Parasites

Fleas, ticks, and mites (causing mange) are common external parasites affecting puppies.

Symptoms to watch for:

  • Excessive scratching, biting, or licking
  • Red, irritated skin
  • Hair loss
  • Visible parasites in the fur
  • Scabs or hot spots
  • Ear shaking or scratching (with ear mites)

Prevention: Year-round preventative medications are available in various forms, including topical treatments, oral medications, and collars. Discuss with your veterinarian which option is best for your puppy’s age, size, and lifestyle.

Preventative Care Essentials for Puppies

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Establish a relationship with your veterinarian early and maintain regular wellness visits. Puppies typically need check-ups every 3-4 weeks until they’re 16 weeks old for vaccinations and general health assessments.

Vaccination Schedule

Core vaccines for puppies include:

  • Distemper, Adenovirus (Hepatitis), Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza (DHPP)
  • Rabies

Non-core vaccines that may be recommended based on your location and lifestyle:

  • Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
  • Leptospirosis
  • Lyme Disease
  • Canine Influenza

Parasite Prevention

Start your puppy on heartworm, flea, and tick prevention as recommended by your veterinarian, typically around 8 weeks of age. Most preventatives are given monthly.

Nutrition

Feed a high-quality puppy food formulated for your puppy’s size (small, medium, or large breed). Proper nutrition supports immune function and overall health.

Environmental Management

  • Keep your home clean
  • Remove feces promptly from your yard
  • Wash your puppy’s bedding regularly
  • Avoid exposing your unvaccinated puppy to unknown dogs or public areas frequented by other dogs

When to Call the Veterinarian

Some symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. Contact your veterinarian if your puppy shows any of these signs:

  • Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
  • Lethargy or collapse
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Seizures or disorientation
  • Refusal to eat or drink for more than 12 hours
  • Signs of pain
  • Bloated abdomen
  • Any sudden change in behavior

Early Detection Is Key

Many puppy illnesses progress rapidly, and early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Get to know your puppy’s normal behavior, appetite, and bathroom habits so you can quickly identify when something isn’t right.

Remember that puppies are masters at hiding illness until they’re quite sick. Regular handling, including checking ears, eyes, mouth, and skin, will help you spot problems early and familiarize your puppy with being examined.

Final Thoughts

Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to puppy health. By following vaccination schedules, maintaining parasite prevention, providing proper nutrition, and scheduling regular veterinary check-ups, you’ll give your puppy the best chance at a healthy start to life. When in doubt about any symptoms your puppy is experiencing, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Being proactive about your puppy’s health is one of the most important responsibilities of pet parenthood.

With the right preventative care and early detection of potential health issues, you and your puppy can enjoy many happy, healthy years together.