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A dog is more than a pet; it's a part of the family. That's why your dog deserves the kind of care that you loving provide all family members. To really care for your dog, be aware of signs that can indicate disease or illness.

Before you bring your new puppy or dog home, take the time to learn about proper canine care. Know the signs and symptoms of potential health problems, and be aware of how you can provide preventative care.

The key to good health is preventative medicine. It's essential that puppies, like children, see a health care specialist regularly. Puppies must begin a series of four DHLPP/CCV vaccinations at about six weeks of age. These essential shots are given at intervals of three to four weeks. Make sure that your puppy is de-wormed often, and receives heartworm prevention medication at four months of age. A dog can acquire heartworm at any age, so it's important to continue providing this treatment throughout his or her lifetime.

After your puppy has received these initial treatments, be sure to keep a regular schedule of visits with the vet. Annual checkups are a must for all dogs. The vet will check your pet's teeth and examine the stool. He or she will give perform an overall examination to check for medical problems and will administer necessary vaccinations.

Keeping up on preventative medicine needs is the best way to ensure your dog's health. It's also important to know the signs of potential trouble, and keep a close eye for any existing symptoms.

Dogs often experience skin problems, and can present their conditions in various ways. Skin allergies, common to many breeds of dogs, can cause hair loss and 'hot spots'. Hot spots are sores that appear on the surface of the skin. These sores will ooze and they are very painful. The dog will deal with the discomfort by constantly licking at the area, making the problem even more difficult to treat.

Pet owners are often quick to misdiagnose a skin allergy as a flea infestation, so it's important to know the difference in symptoms. Dogs who tend to scratch their heads, necks and front legs typically have skin allergies. Those that chew on the top of the rump will likely have a flea infestation. Know the difference so that you may administer proper treatment.

Many health problem clues can be found in your pet's stool. Runny or discolored stool should be prompt you to call the vet. The solution may be as simple as altering the diet, but it may also call for treatment of parasites. If parasites are found, they can be easily remedied. Gastric dilatation volvulus is less common, but very serious. This condition can occur when a dog exerts himself or herself after consuming a large amount of water. Large breeds with deep chests are most prone to developing gastric dilation volvulus.

Your dog is a cherished family member and deserves to receive the best health benefits. It's not difficult to provide good preventative care for your pet, although it may take an occasional investment of time or money. See to it that your dog has a yearly checkup with the vet. It's just as important that you're aware of the signs and symptoms of illness and disease. If so, you and your pet will enjoy a happy and healthy life together.