Common Boston Terrier Sick Symptoms and Causes

Boston Terriers are prone to certain health issues, and being aware of the common symptoms can help you catch potential problems early on. One of the most common symptoms is vomiting, which can be caused by gastrointestinal issues such as gastroenteritis or food allergies.

Boston Terriers can also experience diarrhea, which may be accompanied by vomiting and abdominal pain. In some cases, diarrhea can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

If your Boston Terrier is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea, it's essential to monitor their fluid intake and ensure they're getting enough water to prevent dehydration. Dehydration can lead to more severe health issues, so keep a close eye on your furry friend's behavior and health.

If you notice any unusual symptoms or changes in your Boston Terrier's behavior, consult with your veterinarian as soon as possible to rule out any potential health issues. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in your dog's health and well-being.

Explore further: Boston Terrier Tail Issues

Boston Terriers are prone to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems due to their brachycephalic nature. This means they can experience overheating, panting, and breathing difficulties, especially in hot weather or after strenuous exercise.

Their flat noses and narrow airways make it hard for them to cool down, and they often breathe through their mouths instead of their noses. Brachycephalic dogs like Boston Terriers are more likely to suffer from respiratory problems than other breeds.

Some common signs of respiratory issues in Boston Terriers include struggling to exercise normally, having trouble drawing breath, and even fainting spells. If your Boston Terrier is showing any of these symptoms, it's essential to have your vet check its breathing.

Arthritis, hip dysplasia, and joint problems can also cause stiffness and lameness in Boston Terriers, making it difficult for them to walk or rise from a lying down position. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's best to minimize your pet's activity and consult with your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

For more insights, see: Boston Terrier Exercise Needs

Boston Terriers are prone to eye problems due to their brachycephalic skull structure, which causes their eyes to protrude.

Red eyes, runny eyes, squinting, or holding the eye closed can be signs of eye problems, ranging from mild infections to glaucoma.

If your dog is pawing or rubbing at the eyes, stop this behavior immediately and call your vet, as rubbing can cause serious damage.

A scratched eyeball or corneal ulceration can become serious if not treated immediately, so watch for any excess tearing or discoloration to the eye or the tissues around it.

Boston Terriers are also susceptible to conjunctivitis, or pink eye, which shows up as puffy redness around the eyeball and should be looked at by a vet.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or dry eye, is a chronic condition that can cause itchiness, soreness, and infection, and may be treated with eye drops or ointment.

Those big, beautiful eyes of a Boston Terrier can be a health risk, as they are vulnerable to injury and irritation, so take care to protect your dog from anything that could scrape their eyes.

Cherry eye, a protrusion of the tear gland, is a common problem among Boston Terriers, and can be identified by swelling, redness, and dried eyes.

Worth a look: Why Does My Boston Terrier Lick Me so Much

Boston Terriers are prone to a range of health issues that can affect their quality of life and longevity. Boston Terriers are more likely to experience eye injuries due to their protruding eyes, which can lead to corneal ulceration, scratched eyeballs, conjunctivitis, or pink eye.

Their brachycephalic syndrome can cause breathing difficulties, especially during exercise, due to a narrower windpipe, collapsing trachea, or paralysis of the laryngeal cartilages. Surgery can fix some of these issues, but getting a pup from a reputable breeder can help minimize the risk.

Dental diseases, heart failure, cancer, and arthritis are common health issues in Boston Terriers, which can be prevented or delayed with regular veterinary checkups, a healthy weight, and a proper diet.

Boston Terriers frequently develop back problems like herniated discs due to their physical features, which can cause nerve damage, pain, and inhibit movement. A K9 Carts rear support dog wheelchair can help a dog with a slipped disc get around.

Discover more: Boston Terrier Eye Problems Pictures

Eye problems, respiratory issues, skin problems, and orthopedic health issues are all potential health concerns for Boston Terriers. Regular veterinary checkups and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or delay these troubles.

If your Boston Terrier is squinting or pawing at their eyes, or if you notice excess tearing or discoloration to the eye or the tissues around it, have them looked at by your veterinarian immediately.

Recommended read: Boston Terrier Cherry Eye

Changes in urination patterns can be a sign of an underlying health issue in Boston Terriers. If your dog is straining to urinate, it's a red flag that warrants a vet visit.

Senior Boston Terriers are especially prone to kidney issues and diabetes mellitus, which can cause excessive urination. Bloody urine can indicate a urinary tract infection, bladder stones, blood problems, or cancer.

If you notice your Boston Terrier urinating more frequently than usual, it's worth investigating the cause. Bloody urine is a serious symptom that requires immediate attention.

Here are some signs to watch out for:

If you suspect an issue, take a sample of the urine with you to your vet appointment.

Vomiting and diarrhea are the most common reasons to seek veterinary help for your Boston Terrier. These signs can be caused by a diet change, getting into the trash, viral or bacterial infections, motion sickness, parvovirus in puppies, or from ingestion of a foreign object.

A single episode of vomiting or diarrhea from an upset stomach might not be a cause for concern, but it's essential to observe your dog for any progression in symptoms.

If your Boston Terrier is vomiting or having loose stool multiple times in 24 hours, and is also showing signs of weakness, lethargy, lack of appetite, or unproductive vomiting (dry heaves), it's time to call your veterinarian.

Check this out: Boston Terrier Diarrhea

Vomiting and diarrhea are the most common reasons to seek veterinary help and often the first symptoms of dog illness. They can be caused by a diet change, getting into the trash, viral or bacterial infections, motion sickness, parvovirus in puppies, or from ingestion of a foreign object.

If your dog had one episode of vomiting or diarrhea from an upset stomach and is acting normally, you can try feeding a bland wet food, such as boiled chicken or hamburger mixed with rice, in small amounts for a day or two until symptoms are resolved.

A mild case of vomiting or diarrhea might be resolved on its own, but if symptoms occur multiple times in 24 hours, and are associated with weakness, lethargy, lack of appetite, or unproductive vomiting, please call your veterinarian.

It's essential to observe your dog's behavior and watch for any progression in symptoms. If your dog's symptoms worsen or persist, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian for proper guidance and care.

For your interest: Show Boston Terrier

Pale gums can be a sign of anemia or shock in dogs. Normal dogs have pink, moist gums.

If your dog has pale gums, it's essential to take immediate action. This can be a medical emergency, especially if your dog is also lethargic, weak, or having trouble breathing. Call your veterinarian or closest veterinary emergency clinic for help.

Here's an interesting read: Dog Breeds Similar to Boston Terrier

Overheating or Heat-Related Illnesses can be a serious concern for Boston Terriers. Heat stroke is a common issue that can lead to hyperventilation, fainting, and even death if left untreated.

Exercising your Boston in high temperatures can lead to overheating and heat-related conditions. If you suspect your dog's hyperventilation stems from heat, it's essential to cool them down as soon as possible.

Move your Boston into the shade or use cold water to cool them off. You can also use ice packs to decrease body temperature. If you have a wood stove in your home, be aware that your pet needs to be able to get to a cooler part of the house or outside to cool down.

The best way to avoid overheating is to prevent it in the first place. Limit strenuous activity on hot days and take your Boston for walks during the early morning and late evening hours when it's cooler. If you're going on a long hike, make sure to pack enough water for yourself and your pup, and take breaks often.

Here are some signs that your Boston is overheating:

• Rapid breathing

• Heavy breathing

• Open-mouth breathing

• Excessive panting and drooling

• Weakness or dizziness

• Collapse or fainting

• Snorting or wheezing

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Suggestion: Boston Terrier Breathing Problems

Boston Terriers are prone to skin allergies, which can be caused by staphylococcus bacteria. Regular baths can help keep them safe from different types of allergies.

When choosing a shampoo, make sure it's free from toxic ingredients and avoid using human shampoo, as it can be harsh on their skin. A healthy diet can also reduce the risk of allergies.

Fleas, skin infections, and allergies can cause hair loss and persistent itching, which can be extremely uncomfortable for your dog. If you notice any signs of flea dirt, redness, or discharge, it's best to consult a veterinarian.

For your interest: Boston Terrier Bumps on Skin

Allergic reactions can be a real concern for Boston Terriers, and it's essential to know the signs and symptoms. Boston Terriers may hyperventilate due to allergic reactions.

Seasonal irritants like pollen and plants can trigger allergic reactions in dogs. They can also get allergies from chemicals in fragrances and perfumes.

Minor allergies can be treated at home using antihistamines. Monitor your pup and if symptoms don’t go away in a half an hour or so, call your veterinarian.

In severe cases, anaphylactic shock can occur, causing symptoms like dizziness, a weak pulse, and fainting. Head to the emergency vet immediately if you suspect anaphylactic shock.

Regular baths can help keep allergies at bay, but be sure to choose a shampoo free from toxic ingredients.

Worth a look: Boston Terrier Allergies

Red eyes, runny eyes, squinting, or holding the eye closed can be signs of problems that range from a mild infection to an ulceration or glaucoma.

If your dog is pawing or rubbing at the eyes, try to stop this behavior and call your vet, as rubbing at the eye can cause serious damage.

An e-collar may be required in addition to medication administration as prescribed by your vet.

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, occurs when the tissues around the eye become infected, showing up as puffy redness around the eyeball.

Watch for any excess tearing or discoloration to the eye or the tissues around it, as these can be warning signs of eye problems.

Pups may even squint or paw at their eyes, or you may see thick, colored discharge.

If anything seems off about your pup’s eyes, have them looked at by your veterinarian immediately.

Dry eyes can look cloudy or dull instead of bright and shiny, and you may notice your pup squinting or pawing at their eyes with this condition.