Dog Symptom Guide: Know When to Go to the Vet

Usually yes. Blood in vomit (bright red or dark, coffee-ground material) is an urgent sign and should be checked by a veterinarian within hours.

It depends on type and amount. Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. Small amounts of milk chocolate may be less urgent, but quick triage is still important.

A healthy dog skipping one meal is often okay. If your dog has not eaten in 24+ hours, or has vomiting, lethargy, or pain, contact your vet.

If your dog can bear some weight, a regular vet visit is often appropriate. No weight-bearing, severe pain, or visible deformity should be treated as urgent.

Bloody diarrhea with vomiting, lethargy, or pale gums can be an emergency. Small streaks of blood with normal behavior may still need a vet visit within 24 hours.

Labored breathing, blue/purple gums, or open-mouth breathing at rest is an emergency. Panting after exercise or heat can be normal if it resolves quickly.

Shaking can be caused by cold, fear, pain, nausea, or toxins. If it comes with vomiting, seizures, weakness, or trouble walking, treat as urgent.

Call ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or run triage immediately. Time is critical with toxin ingestion.

It can be. Swollen hard belly plus retching without vomiting and restlessness can indicate GDV (bloat), a life-threatening emergency. Go now.

A single seizure under 2 minutes that resolves may need vet follow-up within 24 hours. Multiple seizures, 5+ minute seizures, or poor recovery are emergencies.

Swelling, squinting, discharge, or visible injury usually needs a vet within 24 hours. Sudden bulging or eye protrusion is an emergency.

Yes, it can be serious. Straining with little or no urine for 12+ hours is urgent, especially in male dogs where blockage can become life-threatening.

Occasional cough is often not urgent. Persistent coughing with breathing distress, blue gums, collapse, or extreme fatigue is an emergency.

Sudden lethargy with pale gums, cold extremities, breathing issues, or inability to stand is an emergency. Mild sluggishness for one day can sometimes be monitored closely.

Go to the ER immediately, even if your dog seems okay. Internal injuries may not be visible. Keep your dog still and warm during transport.