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 regular vet appointment within 24–48h OK?▾
A regular appointment is fine if symptoms like diarrhea, mild vomiting, coughing, limping or tiredness last longer than 24 hours but your dog is still drinking, eating (even a little) and responsive. For puppies, seniors or chronically ill dogs, go sooner.
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 it doesn't improve within 24–48h or gets worse → vet.
How do I find an emergency vet in Germany?▾
The quickest way is the online emergency vet search of the German Federal Chamber of Veterinarians (Bundestierärztekammer), or search “emergency vet [your city]”. Many animal clinics have a 24/7 emergency room. Save your local emergency vet's number in your phone.
Which foods are toxic to dogs?▾
Chocolate (especially dark), grapes & raisins, onions & garlic, xylitol (in gum and sugar-free candy), macadamia nuts, avocado (pit and skin), alcohol, coffee, raw yeast dough. If you suspect your dog has eaten any of these, see a vet immediately.
How do I recognize bloat (GDV)?▾
Bloat is an acute, life-threatening emergency. Signs: distended belly, unsuccessful retching, restlessness, drooling, collapse. High-risk breeds: large, deep-chested breeds (Great Dane, German Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, Boxer). Go to an emergency vet 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. Measure rectally with a digital thermometer. Exertion or excitement can raise the temperature briefly, so let your dog rest for 15 minutes first.
Why does breed matter for symptom assessment?▾
Breeds are prone to different conditions: Pugs and French Bulldogs to breathing problems, German Shepherds to hip dysplasia, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels to heart disease, Dachshunds to disc problems. The same symptom can be more or less urgent depending on the breed.
Learn more about breed health
Solid, honest knowledge about dog breed health — based on data.
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