Top Health Risks for Dogs in India

Imagine your playful puppy suddenly weakens, vomits and scratches non-stop. This is such a heart-stopping moment and instantly you can wonder, “is this normal or something serious?”

In India, such worries are valid. Polluted water, mosquito-borne infections and viral hotspots can make dogs especially vulnerable.

Add to this the risks of rabies from stray bites and infections picked up in crowded parks or humid weather; everyday outings can quickly turn risky for your pet.

Read this blog to make a list of the top health risks for dogs, preventive tips and spot-on symptoms.

Top 11 Health Risks for Your Dogs in India

As a dog owner, it is essential to be aware of the common diseases that can affect your furry friend.

Canine Parvovirus (Parvo)

Parvo is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease that affects the gastrointestinal system. It primarily affects unvaccinated dogs and puppies. Early signs of this canine disease include vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, lethargy and loss of appetite.

To prevent this top health risk for dogs, ensure timely vaccinations, avoid contact with unvaccinated or sick dogs and maintain hygiene in living spaces.

Canine Distemper

Canine Distemper is a viral disease that mostly affects the gastrointestinal, respiratory and central nervous systems. This disease usually spreads via airborne exposure and if left untreated, can become fatal. Early signs include fever, coughing, nasal discharge and twitching or seizures in severe stages.

To prevent this dog's health problem, schedule vaccinations and regular vet check-ups. You need to boost the immunity of your furry friend with supplements.

Tick-Borne Disease (Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis and Lyme Disease)

Tick fever is transmitted through tick bites and affects the red blood cells and the immune system. Early signs include high fever, loss of appetite, pale gums and lameness. Regular tick prevention treatment, keeping fur and bedding clean and using anti-tick sprays and shampoos can treat this top health risk for your dog.

Rabies (Fatal Viral Disease)

Rabies is a zoonotic, fatal disease that affects the nervous system. It can spread to humans through the bite or saliva of infected animals. Rabies involves some early signs, including sudden behaviour changes, excessive drooling, aggression or fear. Annual rabies vaccination helps prevent this common dog illness, but immediate vet attention after bites is crucial.

Kennel Cough

Kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease and one of the top health risks for dogs. This heart disease spreads through droplets, especially in parks and boarding facilities. Early signs of this dog's heart disease are sneezing, a persistent dry cough and nasal discharge.

Schedule annual vaccination against Bordetella and avoid unclear or overcrowded kennels to prevent this common dog heart disease.  

Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease is transmitted through mosquitoes and highly affects the lungs and heart of your dog. You can notice fatigue, coughing and breathing difficulties as the early signs of this top health risk for your dog.

To prevent this mosquito-causing disease in your furry dog, you need to limit exposure and schedule monthly preventive medication. 

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that spreads via contaminated water or the urine of infected animals. Early signs include vomiting, fever, muscle pain, yellow coloured gums and eyes. Annual vaccinations, ensuring clean drinking water and avoiding stagnant water can help prevent this top health risk for dogs.

Obesity

Obesity is one of the top health risks for dogs in India. It occurs due to a lack of exercise, a poor diet and overfeeding. Mostly, obesity is the reason for serious conditions among pets, including joint problems, diabetes and heart disease.

To prevent this common dog disease, maintain a portion-controlled, balanced diet for your pet. Engage your dog with regular exercises, like playtime or walks and consult a veterinarian for weight management.

Fungal Infection

Fungal infections affect the respiratory system and skin of your dog. Ringworm is a common dog illness, which is a fungal infection and also affects the fur, skin and nails of your dog.

This fungal infection includes itching, hair loss, crusty or flaky skin or brittle nails as common symptoms in dogs. Aspergillosis, another infectious disease, causes breathing difficulties and nasal discharge.

You need to maintain regular grooming and cleanliness, especially in humid climates, to detect early signs.

Parasitic Infection

Intestinal parasites drain essential nutrients from your dog’s body and can also pose zoonotic risks. Puppies are mainly vulnerable to this disease. Intestinal worms cause anaemia, malnutrition and digestive issues.

Early signs of this parasitic infection are diarrhoea or constipation, weight loss despite eating and worms in vomit or stool.

Plan deworm treatment for your dog for at least every 3 to 6 months. Must avoid feeding raw meats, maintain hygiene and clean up faeces to prevent this top health risk for your dog.

Ear Infection

Ear infection is a common dog illness associated with floppy-eared breeds, particularly. This disease generally occurs due to moisture build-up, allergies, fungal or bacterial infections. It has some common symptoms, like a funky smell from their ears, scratching their ears, crying or groaning while massaging their ears, redness and ear swelling.

Keep your dog’s ear clean and dry after swims or baths and use a pet-safe ear cleaning solution to prevent this common dog illness. You must seek veterinary attention if your dog constantly shakes its head.

Safeguard Health Against Top Health Risks for Dogs in India

Get pet insurance from Bajaj General Insurance and enjoy financial protection from costly medical bills for your dog’s hospitalisation and treatment.

Having a dog insurance policy can safeguard their health without any financial burden. It covers injuries, accidents, wounds, fractures and trauma treatment with long-term conditions and illnesses.

1. Pet insurance from Bajaj General covers dogs from 3 months to 10 years and diseases during the policy period.
2. Bajaj General Insurance offers treatment of surgeries, injuries or mortality resulting from sudden accidents without any waiting period.
3. It ensures your dog receives timely vaccinations throughout the policy period and covers vaccination failure. 
4. Pet insurance provides a lump sum amount to treat terminal diseases, including all types of cancer, coagulation disorders, chronic kidney failure, cardiac dysfunction and leptospirosis.
5. Your pet can receive coverage for long-term, top health risks for dogs, including epilepsy, diabetes, pancreatitis, thyroid dysfunction, glaucoma and inflammatory bowel disease.
6. Pet insurance also provides ₹30,000 OPD coverage for specific diseases, such as parvo, meningitis, pneumonia, eye-related problems, hepatitis and peritonitis. 

Final Words

Keeping your furry friend safe and healthy requires awareness of the top health risks for dogs, proactive care and timely veterinary check-ups.

From parvo, distemper and rabies to obesity, parasite infections and everyday threats like worms and ticks, these conditions are among the most common dog diseases. The good news is that not all serious illnesses are unbeatable.

Consult your veterinarian to choose the right treatment plan for your dog. To stay financially prepared, consider pet insurance from Bajaj General Insurance, which offers coverage for hospitalisation, surgical treatments, terminal illnesses, long-term disease care and third-party liability.

FAQs

Which specific dog breeds are susceptible to major diseases in India?

Breeds like pugs, labradors and bulldogs are more susceptible to diseases like breathing issues and obesity.

Why do dog owners need to get pet insurance?

Pet insurance helps pet owners support their dog’s overall health through regular check-ups and timely care. With the right dog insurance coverage, you gain financial protection and access to medical support during unexpected emergencies, without the stress of sudden veterinary bills.

Can vaccinations prevent all diseases in dogs?

No, vaccinations cannot prevent all dog diseases. However, they prevent contagious and most dangerous dog illnesses such as distemper, parvovirus and rabies.

How much does it cost to get pet insurance in India?

Pet insurance premium varies depending on several factors, including pet age, breed, policy term and chosen coverage. Buying pet insurance is a cost-effective solution to enjoy the benefits of cashless medical care coverage or an average cost of medical bills for your dog.

Does a pet insurance plan cover vaccination costs?

Pet insurance plans typically do not cover preventive care or vaccinations. Bajaj General Pet Insurance offers coverage for failure of vaccinations. Before purchasing pet health insurance for your dog, ensure you review all coverage benefits and exclusions properly. That avoids confusion or claim rejection in future.

How many times can I file a claim on my dog insurance policy?

The number of claims you can file on the dog insurance policy depends on coverage limits and policy terms and conditions. Some pet insurance policies allow multiple claims within the insurance period. So, check your policy documents in detail.

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***Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making any related decisions.