6 Signs Dog Owners Mistake for Normal But Signal Health Issues

All responsible dog owners want to do the very best for their dogs, keeping them safe, healthy, and happy throughout their lives together. This includes providing an appropriate diet and exercise, protecting your dog from harm, and ensuring timely vet visits as needed.

However, recognising when your dog needs veterinary care can be challenging if you mistake concerning symptoms as normal. Even experienced owners can miss signs that indicate health problems needing attention. This article highlights six common traits that many dog owners believe to be normal but could actually signal underlying health issues worth investigating.

1. Persistent Bad Breath Signalling Dental Disease

Many dog owners consider bad breath in older dogs as normal, but in reality, this is often a symptom of dental problems. These include loose, decaying or broken teeth, plaque and tartar buildup, and inflamed gums (gingivitis), which cause pain and may impair eating.

Dental disease can also affect your dog's overall wellbeing and lead to infections spreading beyond the mouth. If your dog's breath smells unpleasant persistently, book a dental check-up with your vet. Professional cleaning and treatment can alleviate discomfort and prevent more serious complications.

2. Snoring: When to Be Concerned

Some dogs snore faintly when sleeping, and certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic ones like the pug puppies, may snore throughout life due to their head structure. Mild snoring alone is typically harmless.

However, snoring can result from excess fat around the neck, a weak trachea, or anatomical issues affecting breathing. Sudden changes in snoring, laboured breathing, or associated symptoms such as coughing or lethargy warrant a vet assessment. Early evaluation helps identify treatable respiratory problems and may improve your dog's sleep and comfort.

3. Noisy Breathing When Awake Indicates Possible Respiratory Problems

Unlike panting after exercise or heat, noisy breathing when your dog is at rest—such as wheezing, grunting, or persistent snorting—can signal brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) or other airway issues. This condition is common in flat-faced breeds but can affect any dog.

Noisy or laboured breathing strains your dog's organs and reduces oxygen intake, causing stress and discomfort. If you hear disturbing breathing sounds during rest, seek veterinary advice. Diagnosis and possible surgical or medical interventions can significantly improve your dog's quality of life.

4. Morning Stiffness May Reflect Arthritis or Joint Problems

Just as humans may feel stiff in the mornings, dogs—particularly older ones—can experience stiffness that affects mobility and causes pain. While some initial stiffness after waking is normal, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated.

Arthritis is a common cause and can be managed with veterinary-prescribed medication, supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin, weight control, and gentle exercise. Modifying your home environment with ramps or non-slip mats can also help your dog move comfortably.

5. A Strong "Doggy" Smell Can Signal Hygiene or Health Issues

Dogs naturally have a mild scent, but a persistent strong or unpleasant odour from the coat is not normal. This could indicate that your dog needs a bath or has skin problems such as infections, allergies, or other dermatological conditions.

Maintaining regular grooming and skin care helps keep your dog comfortable. If the smell does not improve with bathing, or your dog has itchy, flaky, or sore skin, consult your vet to diagnose and treat any underlying health issues.

6. Overweight Dogs Face Numerous Health Risks

Obesity is a growing concern in the UK pet population, with over 50% of dogs estimated to be overweight to some degree. Owners may not always recognise excess weight, especially because overweight dogs are so common.

Signs that your dog is carrying extra weight include an absent waistline when viewed from above, inability to easily feel ribs, a saggy belly, and decreased stamina during activities. Even modest overweight can significantly impact joint health and increase risks of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems.

Consult your vet to assess your dog's weight and develop a safe, controlled weight management plan including diet and exercise. Weight loss will greatly enhance your dog's wellbeing and longevity.

Conclusion: Vigilance and Veterinary Care Protect Your Dog's Health

What may seem like normal traits or behaviours in your dog can sometimes signal important health issues. Staying alert to persistent bad breath, changes in breathing sounds, stiffness, odour, and weight allows you to seek veterinary advice early and improve your pet's quality of life.

Responsible ownership involves continuous learning, careful observation, and prompt response to health concerns. Working closely with your vet ensures that your beloved dog stays as comfortable, active, and happy as possible for many years.