The last thing you want to see happen is for your dog to contract a debilitating or deadly disease, yet it is possible. Watching for the warning signs may help reduce or prevent the disease. Looking for early warning signs and getting your dog to the vet for regular checkups is vital for keeping your dog healthy.

Probably the most common problem, especially in older dogs, is arthritis. Have your dog checked if he limps or appears stiff after napping. You can also reduce the pain and stiffness by controlling his weight .Diabetes or kidney disease can be detected early if you notice your dog drinking a lot, urinating a lot or losing weight without trying. Heart or lung disease can be caught if you notice your dog coughing, wheezing or otherwise having trouble breathing. Gum disease can present itself with foul breath, trouble eating and loose teeth. Large lumps under the dog's skin can be a sign of a tumor. Check for these regularly when grooming.

Allergies are another common problem for dogs. Have your dog checked if he has trouble breathing, sneezes a lot or has a reaction to bug bites. Other common allergens include grass, trees, pollen and dust particles.