The Most Common Reasons Dogs Visit the Vet in Richmond
Quick Answer: The most common reasons dogs visit the vet in Richmond include itchy skin and ear problems, stomach upsets, limping, dental disease, vaccinations and routine health checks. At The Vet on Richmond Hill, we also regularly help with lumps, parasite prevention, older dog concerns and urgent problems that need prompt veterinary attention.
Introduction
Dogs visit the vet for many different reasons, and not all of them are emergencies. Some appointments are routine, such as vaccinations and health checks, while others happen because an owner has noticed a change in their dog’s behaviour, mobility or appetite.
At The Vet on Richmond Hill we regularly help dog owners from Richmond, Richmond Hill, East Sheen, Twickenham and across South West London with both everyday concerns and more complex medical issues. Many local pet owners ask us which problems are most common and when they should book an appointment. In this guide, we share the issues we see most often, what they can mean, and when it is sensible to seek veterinary advice.
Main Content
1. Skin problems, itching and ear trouble
One of the most common reasons dogs come to see us is because they are scratching, licking their paws, rubbing their face or shaking their head. Skin and ear issues can be linked to allergies, parasites, infections or irritation from grass, mud and seasonal triggers. This is something we commonly see in active dogs around Richmond and South West London, especially after time outdoors.
Signs owners often notice include:
- Persistent scratching
- Red or sore skin
- Paw licking
- Hair loss
- A bad smell from the ears
- Head shaking or ear rubbing
Although some mild irritation may settle, ongoing discomfort should be checked. Preventative care can also make a real difference, including regular flea, tick and worm prevention and routine monitoring. Our veterinary team often advises owners not to wait too long with ear problems, as they can quickly become more uncomfortable.
2. Stomach upsets and changes in appetite
Vomiting, diarrhoea, reduced appetite and scavenging-related stomach upsets are another frequent reason for dog appointments. Dogs are naturally curious, and many local pet owners in Richmond Hill and nearby areas know how quickly a walk can turn into a snack-hunting expedition.
Common causes include:
- Eating something unsuitable
- Dietary changes
- Mild digestive upset
- Parasites
- Underlying illness that needs investigation
If symptoms are mild and short-lived, your dog may simply need assessment and supportive advice. If symptoms persist, recur, or your dog seems lethargic, dehydrated or painful, it is best to speak to a vet. In some cases, further tests such as blood and urine testing or ultrasound may help us investigate the cause.
If your pet has eaten something toxic, contact a vet immediately. For urgent support, you can access our 24-hour emergency vetcare service.
3. Limping, stiffness and mobility changes
Limping is a very common concern in dogs of all ages. Younger dogs may overdo things at the park, while older dogs may gradually become stiff due to joint wear and tear. At The Vet on Richmond Hill we regularly help owners who have noticed their dog slowing down, hesitating on stairs or seeming uncomfortable after exercise.
Possible reasons include:
- Soft tissue sprains or strains
- Paw injuries
- Nail problems
- Joint pain
- Ligament injuries
- Arthritis
Some dogs need rest and monitoring, while others benefit from imaging such as X-rays. Where more advanced care is needed, we also provide orthopaedic surgery as part of our comprehensive medical and surgical care.
4. Dental disease and bad breath
Dental problems are extremely common, especially in adult and older dogs. Many owners first notice bad breath, but the underlying issue is often a build-up of plaque and tartar, inflamed gums or painful teeth.
Signs can include:
- Bad breath
- Difficulty chewing
- Dropping food
- Red gums
- Visible tartar
- Reluctance to let you touch the mouth
A common misunderstanding is that bad breath is normal in dogs. In reality, persistent bad breath often suggests dental disease. Our experienced veterinary team regularly helps dogs with oral discomfort, and if treatment is needed we can advise on options including dog dental cleaning and dog dental surgery. If you are unsure, it is worth arranging a check rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen.
5. Lumps, bumps and skin growths
Finding a lump is one of the most common reasons owners book a dog appointment. Many lumps are harmless, but some need closer assessment. Because it is impossible to tell the cause of a lump just by looking at it, it is always sensible to have new, changing or uncomfortable lumps checked by a vet.
We commonly see:
- Fatty lumps
- Cysts
- Warts
- Inflamed skin swellings
- Growths that need sampling or removal
Our veterinary team often advises owners to keep a simple note of when a lump first appeared, whether it is growing, and whether the dog is bothered by it. Where needed, we may recommend further investigation or treatment through our advanced surgery and medicine services.
6. Routine preventative care
Not every vet visit is because something is wrong. Preventative care is one of the most valuable reasons to see a vet, and it often helps us spot small changes before they become bigger problems.
Preventative appointments often include:
- Routine vaccinations
- Weight checks
- General health assessments
- Parasite prevention
- Dog microchipping
- Advice for puppies, adults and senior dogs
In our experience supporting pets across Richmond and South West London, dogs that attend regular checks are often easier to keep well over the long term. If you want a practical way to spread the cost of routine care, you can also explore our Dog VIP plan or our wider preventative healthcare options.
What We Commonly See at The Vet on Richmond Hill
At The Vet on Richmond Hill we regularly help with concerns that start small but become more noticeable over time. One of the most common concerns we hear is, “I wasn’t sure if this was serious enough to book.” In many cases, owners are right to ask. Subtle signs can matter.
Many local pet owners ask us about:
- Repeated paw licking during allergy season
- Older dogs becoming slower on walks
- Bad breath that has gradually worsened
- Intermittent vomiting after scavenging
- New lumps found during grooming
- Ear scratching after swimming or bathing
A common misunderstanding is that if a dog is still eating, wagging its tail or going for walks, the problem cannot be very important. Dogs often carry on despite discomfort, so changes in habits, posture, sleep, appetite or energy levels are worth paying attention to.
Our local veterinary team also finds that seasonal patterns play a part. Warmer weather can bring more skin irritation and parasite exposure, while muddy winter walks can aggravate paws and joints. For many families in Richmond and South West London, a timely check-up can provide reassurance and practical next steps.
Practical Advice
There are a few simple ways to reduce the need for unplanned vet visits and spot problems earlier:
- Check your dog’s ears, coat, paws and teeth regularly.
- Keep parasite prevention up to date with worming and flea and tick control.
- Book routine check-ups, especially for puppies, senior dogs and pets with ongoing conditions.
- Watch for gradual changes in mobility, appetite, thirst or behaviour.
- Arrange advice early if a lump appears or symptoms keep returning.
Our experienced veterinary team supports pets through every stage of life, and early advice is often the simplest way to avoid a problem becoming more difficult to manage. If you have a new puppy or have recently moved to the area, you can register your pet with The Vet on Richmond Hill or book an appointment online.
When To Contact A Vet
You should contact a vet if your dog has:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea that is severe, repeated or not improving
- A limp that persists or seems painful
- Ongoing scratching, ear discomfort or sore skin
- Bad breath with difficulty eating or chewing
- A new lump, or a lump that is changing in size or appearance
- Changes in behaviour, appetite, thirst or energy that you cannot explain
If your pet is struggling to breathe, has collapsed, is having a seizure, has eaten something toxic, or is in severe pain, contact a vet immediately. We provide 24-hour emergency veterinary care for urgent situations requiring prompt attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common reason dogs go to the vet?
Common reasons include skin and ear problems, stomach upsets, limping, dental disease and routine preventative care such as vaccinations and health checks.
Should I take my dog to the vet for itching?
If the itching is persistent, causing sore skin, affecting the ears, or keeps coming back, it is a good idea to have your dog checked. Ongoing scratching can have several causes and may need treatment or prevention advice.
When should I worry about a lump on my dog?
Any new lump should be checked, especially if it is growing, changing, bleeding, feels uncomfortable or is affecting your dog’s movement or behaviour.
Is bad breath in dogs a sign of dental disease?
Often, yes. While mild odour can happen, persistent bad breath commonly points to dental disease and is worth discussing with your vet.
How often should my dog have a routine health check?
Most dogs benefit from regular health checks, with frequency depending on age, lifestyle and existing health conditions. Puppies and older dogs often need closer monitoring. You can also speak to our team at The Vet on Richmond Hill about ongoing care plans that suit your dog.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general guidance only. If your pet is unwell, showing concerning symptoms, or you are unsure what to do, please contact your vet for professional advice.
Book Your Dog’s Appointment in Richmond
If your dog needs a check-up, preventative care or advice about a new concern, we are here to help. You can book an appointment online, register your pet, or find The Vet on Richmond Hill if you are looking for a trusted local veterinary team in Richmond, Richmond Hill and South West London.
If you would like to understand your options before booking, you can also view our prices or speak to our team about routine care and health checks.
020 7730 9102
