Dog Health 101: How to Recognize Early Signs of Illness in Dogs

Q: When should I worry about my dog’s runny nose?

A clear, watery nose is usually normal. But yellow, green, thick, foul-smelling, or bloody discharge means you should contact a vet. Also seek help if your dog has nonstop sneezing, noisy breathing, or a crusty nose.

Q: Are fatty lumps (lipomas) dangerous for dogs?

Most fatty lumps are harmless and common, especially in older dogs. However, lumps that grow fast, feel hard, cause pain, or don't move when touched should be checked by a vet. Early testing helps rule out infections or tumors.

Q: My dog has suddenly started peeing inside the house. Is it an illness?

Often, yes. Sudden accidents can indicate: Urinary tract infections Bladder stones Diabetes Hormonal changes Aging-related incontinence If this behavior is new, frequent, or paired with excessive drinking or licking, contact your vet.

Q: How can I tell if my dog is in pain if they don’t cry?

Dogs hide pain, but subtle signs include: Limping Avoiding touch Reduced appetite Sleeping more than usual Growling when handled Sudden clinginess or hiding Any unexplained change in behavior deserves attention.

Q: When should I take my dog to the vet for vomiting or diarrhea?

Visit a vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than 24 hours , contains blood, or is paired with lethargy, dehydration, or refusal to eat. Persistent digestive issues can signal infections, allergies, or organ problems.

Q: How often should I check my dog for lumps or skin changes?

Do a quick hands-on check every week , especially during grooming or cuddle time. This helps you notice new bumps early and spot changes in existing ones.

Q: What bathroom changes are red flags in dogs?

Watch for: Peeing more or less often Difficulty peeing Blood in urine Small leaks while resting Straining to poop Loose stools for more than a day Bathroom habits give early clues about infections or digestive issues.

Pawgram.pet

January 29, 2026

Runny nose, fatty lumps, and additional early warning signs explained

Ever look at your dog and think, “Something’s off, but I can’t explain it”?
They wag their tail, act normal, and still… your gut says otherwise. Since dogs can’t sit us down and say, “Hey, I don’t feel good today,” it’s on us to pick up the small clues they drop.

The good news? You don’t need to be a vet to spot early signs. A little awareness can save your dog from bigger issues later, and honestly, it saves you a lot of worry too.

Runny Noses: More Than Just a Sniffle

A drippy nose doesn’t always mean your dog is sick. Sometimes they just sniffed something dusty or ran too much in the yard. But the type of discharge matters:

Clear and watery: Usually nothing serious. Could be allergies or excitement.
Yellow or green: That’s your cue to call the vet—it may be an infection.
Sneezing nonstop, crusty nose, or a bit of blood: Could be allergies, dental issues, or something growing inside the nasal passage.

Quick tip:
Peep your dog’s nose once in a while, after a walk, after play, or when they’re resting. If it feels too dry, too warm, or the discharge looks unusual for more than a day, don’t ignore it.

Lumps and Bumps: Don’t Panic Yet

Every dog parent has had that moment, you’re giving belly rubs and your fingers find a random bump. Your heart drops instantly. Most of the time, though, it’s just a lipoma (a harmless fatty lump). These are soft, move when you touch them, and don’t hurt the dog.

But some bumps do need a closer look. Watch for lumps that:

Grow fast
Feel hard or don’t move
Seem painful when touched

Try this:
While petting your dog, run your hands along their shoulders, belly, chest, and legs. It becomes natural after a while, and you’ll catch new bumps early without making your dog uncomfortable.

Bathroom Changes: What Your Dog Can’t Tell You

A sudden accident inside the house might seem like bad behavior, but very often, it’s your dog signaling discomfort. Incontinence or frequent urination can point to a bladder infection, aging, or hormonal changes.

Keep an eye on things like:

Peeing more often or in unusual spots
Small leaks while lying or sleeping
Constant licking of the genital area

Most of these problems can be treated easily if caught early, sometimes with just medication or a small routine change.

The Subtle Signs We Often Miss

Dogs are weirdly good at hiding pain. But they do have tells, some super small, some more obvious.

Watch for:

Eating less or suddenly eating more
Weight dropping or increasing quickly
Low energy, not wanting to play, or sleeping at odd times
Acting distant, hiding, clinginess, or irritability
Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than a day

One thing that helps a lot:
Keep a tiny daily note on your phone. Just jot down how much they ate, walked, peed, or how active they seemed. You’d be surprised how much it helps your vet pinpoint issues faster.

Simple Habits That Keep Dogs Healthy

You don’t need to overhaul your lifestyle. A few small habits can go a long way:

Regular vet visits (twice a year is ideal)
Good food that fits their age and needs
Daily walks and a bit of mental stimulation
Weekly brushing and occasional baths
Staying up-to-date on vaccines and preventive care

Even checking their paws after walks or brushing their coat while watching TV counts as preventive care.

Why Catching Things Early Matters

Dogs don’t complain. They don’t exaggerate. Most of the time, they hide discomfort until they really can’t anymore. That’s why early spotting is so important.

A small lump found early?
Sometimes it just needs monitoring.

A bladder infection caught in the beginning?
Simple medication usually fixes it in a few days.

Catching things early usually means less pain, fewer bills, and quicker recovery.

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Your Quick Daily Checklist

Look at their nose and eyes
Run your hands along their body
Pay attention to bathroom habits
Notice appetite and energy
Keep up with grooming
Stay on top of vet appointments

Five minutes a day is all it takes. Your dog gives you endless love, this is just one way to return the favor.

FAQs

What are the first signs that my dog might be getting sick?

Early signs include changes in appetite, runny nose with unusual discharge, sudden lumps or bumps, bathroom accidents, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or sudden behavioral changes like hiding or irritability. Small changes often reveal big clues.

When should I worry about my dog’s runny nose?

Are fatty lumps (lipomas) dangerous for dogs?

My dog has suddenly started peeing inside the house. Is it an illness?