Are you concerned about your pet's health or just have some dog health questions?

The following list of health questions and answers will help you to recognize if your pet is ill. It will also help you to take a better care of your puppy or an adult dog.

Before we proceed to questions and answers, here is something important...

Don't try to make a diagnosis on your own. If you suspect your pet is ill, take him to a veterinarian.

OK, here are the...

5 Dog Health Questions and Answers

1. How can I tell if my puppy is ill?

The most common signs that your pet is ill are a loss or appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss and depression (yes, dogs get that too). If these symptoms don't disappear in two days, contact your dog's veterinarian. In general, you will get to know your dog pretty well and will be able to tell if there is something wrong with him.

2. Is it necessary to brush my dog's teeth?

Surprisingly, and unfortunately, this is not one of the more common dog health questions.

In short, the answer is "yes". According to American Veterinary Dental Society, around 80 percent of dogs show signs of oral disease by the age of three. By cleaning your dog's teeth on a regular basis, you will keep his gums and jaw bones healthy. You will also be able to reduce or even eliminate costly cleanings done under general anesthesia by a vet. Chew toys will also help you keep your pet's teeth healthy.

3. Is it possible to tell by the temperature of my dog's nose if he is ill?

A common dog health question that many owners feel they have an answer for. Unfortunately, the answer they have is wrong. No, you can't tell if your dog is ill by his nose. Dogs have only two body parts though which they sweat. Nose is one of them (paws are another). When the outside temperature is hot and your dog is sweating to cool himself, his nose will feel cool and moist. On the other hand, if a dog does not need to cool himself, his nose will feel dry.

4. How often will I need to vaccinate my dog?

This is one of the most common dog health questions. There are many factors that will influence vaccination schedule and, because each situation is unique, only your veterinarian can answer this question. He or she will talk to you about it during your pet's first visit.

5. How often will I need to take my dog to a vet?

It all depends on your dog's age and general health. If your dog is in good health, an older dog will usually need to see a vet once a year. For younger puppies, because of vaccinations, vet visits will be more frequent. And, of course, if your dog is ill, he will need to see a vet whether it's time for a regular checkup or not.

This is a first in a series of three articles on dog health questions and answers. I hope you found it informative.

Ed Nodelman is a dog owner and a trainer with a special interest in puppy training. He is also a member of Association of Pet Dog Trainers(APDT).

For more information on dog health problems, visit www.puppy-training-solutions.com