Question 1

Vomiting and Diarrhoea

Accepted Answer

This is a common concern for new puppy owners. Vomiting and diarrhoea are not necessarily illnesses but rather a sign of one. More often than not they can be triggered by eating something they shouldn’t have, a possible foreign body, a sudden change in diet, bacterial and/or viral infections, stress or intestinal parasites.

As puppies can become dehydrated quite rapidly, its important to have them checked by a vet as soon as possible. Do not force feed or syringe feed your puppy if they are vomiting, nauseous, or not eating, without proper guidance. Check out our guides to Vomiting and Diarrhoea to find out more.

Question 2

Parvovirus

Accepted Answer

Despite a vaccine being readily available, parvovirus is still prevalent in Australia. Parvovirus is a highly infectious virus that can cause severe bloody diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration and nausea in puppies and dogs. It can survive for long periods in the environment and in severe cases cause death. Mortality rates can be high than 50% if left untreated. This is why it is essential to seek veterinary assistance if your puppy is unwell and displaying any signs of inappetance, vomiting and/or diarrhoea. Read more about Parvovirus.

Your puppy must be kept up to date with their vaccinations. High risk areas such as dog parks and public parks should be avoided until they have finished their course. Vaccinations generally are administered every 4 weeks for three shots from 6-8 weeks of age i.e. 6-8 weeks, 10-12 weeks and then 14-16 weeks. Puppies are routinely vaccinated against Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Distemper and Kennel Cough (and depending on your location Leptospirosis). Vaccines can take up to two weeks to have their full effect, so be mindful of this even after their final puppy vaccine.

Read more in our Essential Guide to Puppy Vaccination Schedules.

Question 3

Kennel Cough

Accepted Answer

Kennel Cough can cause a characteristic dry, honking like cough and general lethargy. It encompasses several highly infectious viruses and bacteria that cause inflammation and infection within the respiratory system. Contrary to its name it can be spread from dog to dog in any setting - especially in places where they are kept in close proximity - such as dog parks! Although it can be tempting to socialise your puppy at the dog park - they aren’t always the best idea from both a health and behavioural point of view. For more information, take a read through:

Symptoms can occur within 2-10 days following exposure. The easiest way to protect your puppy against Kennel Cough is to have them vaccinated and to avoid doggy social gatherings until they have completed their course. If your pup develops an unusual cough - have them seen by your veterinarian. You may wish to use a harness rather than a collar when they are coughing to reduce strain on their airways. Keep your puppy isolated if they show any signs of Kennel Cough to reduce the spreading of disease.

Question 4

Hypoglycaemia

Accepted Answer

Puppies are particularly prone to hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar levels - as they lack energy stores to maintain and regulate their glucose levels during periods of stress, inappetence and illness. Small and toy breed dogs like Chihuahuas - which have very high metabolism are particularly susceptible to hypoglycemia.

Signs can include weakness, lethargy, appetite loss, abnormal mentation, twitching or tremors and in severe cases seizures or coma. Early intervention and detection is key to long term survival- hypoglycaemic puppies must be seen by a veterinarian. Emergency treatment can be started at home - by rubbing small amounts of glucose or corn syrup onto the gums.

Do not attempt to force-feed your puppy as you can risk aspiration and obstruction.

Question 5

Parasites

Accepted Answer

Due to their underdeveloped immune system, puppies are particularly prone to both internal and external parasites. Common internal parasites include roundworm, hookworm and tapeworm, whereas common external parasites include fleas, ticks, mange and demodex. These can cause a variety of clinical signs including vomiting, diarrhoea, itching, scratching, hair loss and a failure to thrive or grow. Internal parasites in particular can be acquired from as early as in the womb, from their mothers milk and even from ingesting eggs in their environment. It is essential to have your puppy up to date with their parasite preventatives.

Puppies should be wormed every two weeks from 2 weeks of age until they are 12 weeks old, then monthly until 6 months of age. From 6 months and onwards they can be wormed every 3 months (if you are using a heartworm injection) OR once a month when combined with a monthly heartworm, flea and tick product.

If you notice worms in your pup's poop after administering a preventative - make sure to take a photo to show your vet and have your pup checked at the vet. Depending on the worm may need a slightly altered worming schedule for a short period of time as well as environmental decontamination.

Wrapping your head around Parasite Prevention can be a doozy- so check out our Guide to Worms and Guide to Fleas and Ticks in Dogs! Don't forget to also read our article on How Often Should I Worm My Puppy?

Question 6

How do I know if my puppy has a fever?

Accepted Answer

A puppy's normal body temperature is typically between 38-39.2C. While a dry nose is often cited as a sign of fever, it isn't reliable. The only way to accurately check is with a rectal thermometer. If a puppy feels excessively warm to the touch, is shivering, or is very lethargic, a veterinary check-up is needed.

Question 7

Can I give my puppy human paracetamol or ibuprofen?

Accepted Answer

No, never give a puppy human pain relief. Medications like ibuprofen are highly toxic to dogs and can cause life-threatening kidney failure or liver damage. Always consult a vet for pet-safe pain management.

Question 8

My puppy is sleeping a lot; is this normal or are they lethargic?

Accepted Answer

Puppies naturally sleep a lot - often up to 18 - 20 hours a day when very young! The difference between normal sleep and lethargy is how they act when they are awake. A healthy puppy should be easy to rouse, interested in food, and keen to play. If a puppy is difficult to wake or shows no interest in their usual favourite things, this is a sign of lethargy.

Question 9

What should I feed a puppy with an upset stomach?

Accepted Answer

If a vet recommends home care for a mild tummy upset, a bland diet is best. This usually consists of boiled, skinless chicken breast and plain white rice. Avoid using oils, butter, or seasonings, as these can further irritate the digestive tract.

Question 10

When is it an emergency?

Accepted Answer

Certain signs require immediate, out-of-hours veterinary attention. These include difficulty breathing, non-stop vomiting, seizures, pale or blue-tinged gums, or if the puppy has ingested something toxic like chocolate, grapes, or human medication.

What to Do if your Puppy is Sick: Signs, and Vet Advice

In this article

Recognising signs of illness

Common puppy illnesses

Visit your vet immediately

Get a professional diagnosis and treatment plan

Caring for a sick puppy

Know what's normal

Create an area to rest

Bland diet

Maintain a calm environment

Preventative measures

Vaccinations

Parasite prevention

FAQs

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History

Wed 4 Feb 2026

About the Author

Dr Emilee Lay BVSc BSc (Vet) Hons

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