10 Common Puppy Accidents to Watch Out For
Nationwide Pet Insurance recently analyzed claims from over 500,000 policyholders to determine the most common puppy-related incidents during that first year of life. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10:
Soft Tissue Injuries
Puppies are constantly on the move, which means they’re prone to soft tissue injuries like muscle or joint strains. If your pup starts limping, it could be due to one of these minor injuries. However, limping can also signal something more serious, like a torn ligament or broken bone, so it’s always a good idea to check with your vet if it happens.
Swallowing Something They Shouldn’t
Puppies, much like toddlers, love to chew on just about anything they find. The real danger happens when they swallow something that could block their stomach or intestines. If your puppy can’t keep food or water down and keeps vomiting, it could mean they’ve ingested a foreign object, and you’ll need to get them to the vet immediately.
Bites and Cuts
Whether it’s from rough play or a fight with another dog, puppies can end up with serious bite wounds or lacerations. These injuries can damage blood vessels and nerves or even cause infections due to the bacteria in a dog’s mouth. What looks like a small bite can become a big problem, so prompt treatment is essential.
Sprains
All that jumping and running around can sometimes lead to sprains. If your puppy starts yelping when walking or begins to limp, they may have sprained something. Your vet will help rule out more serious conditions like torn ligaments. If needed, your puppy might require treatment or even surgery.
Bug Bites and Stings
Just like humans, puppies can get stung or bitten by insects. Fleas, ticks, bees, mosquitoes, and other bugs not only irritate your dog but can also transmit diseases. Some bites may cause swelling or discomfort, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your puppy and see a vet if needed.
Torn Nails
With all that playing, it’s easy for a puppy to step the wrong way and tear a nail. Torn nails are painful and can bleed heavily if they’re damaged at the quick. In severe cases, the vet might need to remove the nail, and your pup will need medication and bandages to heal.
Drug Overdose or Poisoning
Unfortunately, puppies can sometimes get their paws on medications — either their own or yours. Dogs can overdose on flavored medications intended for them or ingest human drugs like ibuprofen, which can be toxic. If you suspect your puppy has gotten into any kind of medicine, don’t wait — contact a vet immediately.
Eye Injuries
Puppies can injure their eyes in all sorts of ways, like running into bushes, getting something thrown at them, or roughhousing with other dogs. If you notice your puppy pawing at their eye, blinking rapidly, or see swelling, it’s likely an eye injury, and they’ll need veterinary care.
Broken Teeth
Puppies love to chew on everything, and sometimes that leads to broken teeth. When this happens, the exposed part of the tooth can quickly become infected. If not treated, the infection can spread to the bone and other parts of the body. Always seek vet care for broken teeth to avoid bigger health issues.
Eating Toxic Plants
Puppies don’t know which plants are dangerous, and with over 700 toxic varieties out there, it’s important to be careful. Some plants can cause mild stomach upset, while others can be fatal. Before bringing a new plant home or planting your garden, make sure it’s safe for pets.
You can help your puppy stay safe and healthy during their adventurous first year by being aware of these common incidents!
Get insurance plans with wide-ranging coverage options
