Other Things Dogs Can Get
Not every dog health question fits neatly into a single box. This section gathers the everyday curiosities and concerns that owners search for most, from allergies and hiccups to fevers, hay fever, pregnancy and more unusual questions about what dogs can and cannot get.
Browse the guides below for a straight answer to each question, along with the signs to watch for and advice on when a trip to the vet is worthwhile.
Drunk Can dogs get drunk? Yes, and alcohol is toxic to dogs even in small amounts, causing vomiting and worse. Learn the warning signs to watch for
Braces Can dogs get braces? Surprisingly, yes. Vets fit dental braces to fix painful bite problems in dogs. Learn how it works, why, and the cost
Allergic Can dogs get allergies? Yes, to food, fleas, pollen and more, usually shown as itchy skin and ears. Spot the signs and common triggers
Pregnant How can dogs get pregnant? A female conceives during the fertile window of her heat cycle, from her first season. Learn the timing, the signs and how to care for an expecting dog
Hiccups Can dogs get hiccups? Yes, especially puppies. They're usually harmless and caused by fast eating or excitement. Learn when hiccups need a vet
Tattoos Can dogs get tattoos? Yes, but only medical ID tattoos done under anesthesia, never for looks. Learn what they mean and why cosmetic ones are wrong
Fevers Can dogs get fevers? Yes. A dog's normal temperature is higher than ours, so above 103F is a fever. Learn the signs and when to call your vet
Diarrhea Can dogs get diarrhea? Yes, often from diet, stress or bugs. Learn home care, the warning signs, and when diarrhea means a trip to the vet
Hayfever Can dogs get hay fever? Yes, pollen allergies in dogs usually cause itchy skin and paws, not sneezing. Learn the seasonal signs and how to help
Overtired Can dogs get overtired? Yes, like toddlers, tired dogs can turn cranky and hyper. Learn the signs of an overtired dog and how to help them rest
Overheated Can dogs get overheated? Yes, and heatstroke is a deadly emergency. Learn the warning signs, how to cool a dog safely, and how to prevent it
Leg Cramps Can dogs get leg cramps? Yes, muscle cramps and spasms can make a leg stiff or shaky. Learn the causes and when cramping signals something serious
Vasectomy Can dogs get a vasectomy? Yes, it's an alternative to neutering that sterilizes while keeping hormones. Learn how it differs and if it's right
Glasses Can dogs get glasses? Yes, mostly protective goggles and post-surgery eyewear, not everyday specs. Learn when dogs really wear glasses and whyA Mixed Bag of Dog Questions
Dogs share more with us than many owners realize, which is why questions like "can dogs get drunk?", "can dogs get hiccups?" or "can dogs get pregnant?" come up so often. Some of these are harmless and pass on their own, while others, such as allergies or a persistent fever, can point to something that needs attention. Each guide gives you the practical detail without the guesswork.
When to Call the Vet
Use common sense as your guide. A one-off hiccup or a mild, short-lived symptom is rarely a worry. But if your dog seems distressed or in pain, is unusually tired, refuses food or water, runs a high temperature, or a problem drags on or keeps returning, it is time to call your vet. Getting advice early is always cheaper and safer than waiting.
FAQ
Can dogs get allergies?
Yes. Dogs can be allergic to foods, fleas, pollen, dust and many other things. Allergies in dogs most often show up as itchy skin, ear infections, licking of the paws, or digestive upset rather than the sneezing people get. A vet can help identify the trigger and suggest ways to manage it.
Can dogs get hiccups?
Yes, dogs get hiccups, and puppies get them especially often. They are usually caused by eating or drinking too fast, excitement or being cold, and almost always pass on their own within a few minutes. Frequent or long-lasting hiccups, however, are worth mentioning to your vet.
Can dogs get a fever?
Dogs can run a fever just like people. A normal dog temperature is about 101 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, higher than a human's, so a reading above roughly 103 is considered a fever. Signs include warm ears, lethargy, shivering and loss of appetite. Never give human fever medicine to a dog, and call your vet if a fever is high or persistent.
How do I know if one of these issues is serious?
Many everyday issues like hiccups or a mild upset settle on their own. Treat it as more serious if your dog seems in pain, is very lethargic, stops eating or drinking, has a high fever, or if symptoms last more than a day or two or keep coming back. When you are unsure, a quick call to your vet is always the safest choice.