Just like people, dogs in the UK face various health challenges. Understanding common conditions can help you protect your dog better. This guide covers key illnesses, symptom recognition, prevention, and necessary vaccinations to keep your dog healthy, including travel advice.
According to recent studies by the Royal Veterinary College and The Kennel Club, the most prevalent health issues affecting dogs in the UK in 2025 include gum disease, ear infections, and obesity, alongside infectious diseases preventable by vaccination.
Routine care is key to preventing and managing these conditions. Here are practical steps:
Vaccinations remain the cornerstone of protecting dogs from serious illnesses. In the UK, the recommended core vaccines include protection against:
Non-core vaccines may be advised based on exposure risk, such as:
Kennel Cough is a highly contagious respiratory condition common in places where many dogs gather, such as boarding kennels and doggy daycares. It causes coughing and sneezing but is usually not life-threatening. The vaccine is a nasal spray and is recommended if your dog is frequently social or boarded.
This virus spreads through respiratory secretions and can survive in the environment for up to 48 hours. Its symptoms resemble Kennel Cough, including coughing and runny nose. Vaccination is available and often part of core vaccine protocols in some practices.
A severe and often fatal disease especially dangerous to puppies, parvovirus causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea. It spreads via infected faeces and can persist in the environment for months. Core vaccinations protect puppies before social exposure.
A bacterial infection spread through infected urine, common near water sources like canals and ponds. It can cause kidney and liver failure. The vaccine is included in core UK vaccinations.
This liver disease transmits via contact with secretions and affects young or immune-compromised dogs. Vaccination against this disease is included in the core vaccination schedule.
Different countries have different legal requirements and disease risks. The UK has eradicated rabies, so vaccination is generally not required domestically. However, for travel to the EU or Northern Ireland, rabies vaccination is mandatory, given at least 12 weeks before travel. Also, an Animal Health Certificate issued by a vet no more than 10 days before travel is required under the PETS scheme.
Health Condition | Symptoms | Prevention / Management | Vaccination | Travel Considerations |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gum Disease | Bad breath, red gums, tooth loss | Dental hygiene, routine vet checks | Not applicable | None |
Ear Infection | Head shaking, scratching, discharge | Regular ear cleaning, allergy control | Not applicable | None |
Obesity | Excess weight, joint strain | Balanced diet, exercise | Not applicable | None |
Infectious Diseases | Varies with disease | Core vaccinations, risk-based vaccines | Core vaccinations cover CDV, CPV, CAV, Leptospirosis | Rabies vaccine required for travel |
Kennel Cough | Coughing, sneezing | Vaccination for social or boarding dogs | Bordetella vaccine (non-core) | Important for kennels & travel |
Maintaining regular veterinary health checks, following vaccination schedules, managing weight, and providing good dental and ear care significantly improves your dog’s quality of life and longevity. Always consult your vet to tailor health and vaccination plans, especially if your dog socialises a lot or travels internationally.