Brucella canis is a species of bacteria that primarily infects dogs. While it is the leading cause of reproductive disease in dogs world-wide, it is not common in pet dogs in North America.

Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint develops in an abnormally loose manner, creating chronic instability in the hip joint.

Elbow dysplasia (ED) describes a group of developmental conditions which results in the bones of the elbow joint not fitting together perfectly.

Osteochonditis Dissecans (OCD) is a developmental condition where a flap of cartilage breaks off from the end of the bone, and lodges in the joint, triggering inflammation and pain. Osteochondrosis (OC) describes the abnormal development of cartilage which leads to OCD.

Arthritis is a general term referring to damage and inflammation of joints. Osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs is a chronic, progressive form of this disease resulting in pain and reduced mobility.

Legg-Calve-Perthes disease is a disease that causes degeneration of the femoral head spontaneously. It is also known as avascular or aseptic necrosis of the femoral head.

Head pressing is a behavior demonstrated when a dog compulsively faces a wall or corner and remains there without moving or appearing engaged in any kind of activity for a period of time.

Muscle tremors in dogs are involuntary, repetitive, rhythmic muscle movements.

Muscle atrophy describes the thinning or wasting of muscles. It is a common symptom in dogs, seen as part of many conditions.

Sneezing is a common occurrence in dogs, and is not always indicative of a medical condition.

Canine hyperthyroidism results from the excessive production of thyroid hormones due to a functional thyroid gland tumor.

Coughing is a common symptom observed in dogs. It can be caused by a multitude of conditions. Some common causes of coughing include bacterial, fungal, and viral infections

Increased thirst, or polydipsia, is a common symptom of many conditions in dogs.

Difficulty breathing (dyspnea) is always cause for concern, so any dog who suddenly exhibits this symptom needs emergency medical care. Many conditions can cause dyspnea,

Itchy skin, or pruritus, is a common symptom of multiple conditions. Scratching, rubbing, licking, and chewing are the most common signs shown by itchy dogs.

Paralysis is the lack of ability to voluntarily move one or more parts of the body. It may or may not be accompanied by loss of sensation.

Hypothyroidism is a common clinical condition in dogs resulting from reduced production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid glands.

Seizures result from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Seizure activity varies from subtle staring to complete collapse and muscle spasms (convulsions).

Any illness or injury can lead to weight loss, if the condition is severe enough to decrease appetite or if it increases metabolism. Numerous diseases ranging from cancers to parasitic infections cause unexpected weight loss, even without a change in the dog’s appetite.

Exercise intolerance is a decreased ability to endure sustained exercise.

Lymphadenopathy is enlargement of the lymph nodes, and is a common finding in many diseases, illnesses, and conditions.

Reverse sneezing is defined as a sharp inhalation, or sometimes multiple in quick succession, occasionally accompanied by a honking noise.

Cutaneous lumps are lumps within a dog’s skin which make a nodule, raised area, or discoloration on the surface of the skin.

Yellow pigmentation of the eyes, gums, nostrils, and ears is called jaundice or icterus. Jaundice occurs when there is a buildup of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment released during red blood cell breakdown and normally excreted in bile

Gastrointestinal blockages most commonly occur when a dog swallows a large, indigestible object. As the object moves through the gastrointestinal tract, it encounters progressively smaller tubes. Eventually, it becomes stuck, and blocks the flow of intestinal contents.

Ptyalism is the term for excessive drooling. All dogs drool from time to time under normal circumstances, but increased salivation is an indicator for a variety of medical problems

Collapse in dogs is generally defined as when a dog falls and cannot get back up.

Lethargy is a lack of energy or enthusiasm, which most often presents in dogs as reduced activity levels and disinterest in toys, food, or treats.

Lymphomas (lymphosarcomas) are cancers that are derived from lymphocytes - infection-fighting white blood cells.

Joint pain refers to soreness of the spine and/or limbs and is a common symptom, especially in older dogs.