Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Discover how and where to store your dry, as well as canned, dog and cat food. Learn how to find the "best before" dates on all Hill's pet food packaging.
Learn what a pet's microbiome is, how it contributes to your pet's gut & overall health, and why nutrition is important in maintaining healthy microbiomes.
Discover why water is the most important nutrient for your dog or cat to live a healthy life. Find out how much water your pet should consume each day.
Can dogs get bruises? It can be hard to tell if your dog's roughhousing causes a lasting bump because of the fur that covers his body. In fact, bruising in dogs is unusual thanks to their thick skin and that same protective layer of fur. If you do notice a bruise on your dog, it's worth a trip to the veterinarian.
Because it is uncommon in dogs, bruising could be a sign of an internal injury or internal bleeding if your dog was in a car crash, had a fall or ingested something toxic (like aspirin or rat poison), says Pet Health Network. You should look for other indications that you dog may have sustained a bruise such as limping, licking certain parts of the body in excess or general lack of activity.
If your dog is bruising but hasn't undergone any trauma or ingested anything strange, it could be a sign of a disease. A veterinarian will do diagnostic tests on your dog to try to figure out the cause of the bruising. Your vet can also rule out if apparent bruising is actually something more benign like an allergic reaction.
The type of bruising a dog has can help identify the underlying problem. Small pinpoint bruises (called petechiae), for instance, can be a sign of a disease, while larger bruises (known as ecchymosis) can indicate trauma or certain immune disease processes. So what diseases can cause bruising in dogs? Two congenital diseases that are also found in humans can cause bruising:
The Pet Health Network also identifies a number of "acquired" causes for bruising. An acquired cause means the disease isn't something the dog is born with, but rather a condition that develops later in life. Four of the most common acquired causes for bruising include:
A vet will determine the best treatment for your dog once they determine what is causing the bruising. Treatment can range from intravenous (IV) fluids and blood and plasma transfusions to vitamin therapy and symptomatic supportive care.
So can dogs get bruises? Occasionally. But you should never ignore any signs of bruising in your dog. The sooner any issue is identified, the sooner treatment can start, giving your dog the best chance for a full and healthy life.
Kara Murphy is a freelance writer and pet parent who lives in Erie, Pa. She has a goldendoodle named Maddie.
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Learn about Hill's puppy food and the nutritional benefit & high quality ingredients that it contains for your pup.
Large and giant breed puppies have different nutritional needs than other dogs. Learn how to provide the special care they need to grow up big and strong.
Understand the role that Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids play in your dog's overall health, and how you can ensure they are getting enough.
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.