How to know if a puppy has distemper?

Puppy distemper is a serious viral illness, but catching early signs can save their life. One of the first red flags is a sudden fever—your pup might feel warm to the touch, act sluggish, and turn down their favorite wet food, even the kind with extra chicken. You might also notice their eyes get watery or crusty, with a thick, yellowish discharge that sticks to their eyelids.

Another common sign is a persistent cough or runny nose, often accompanied by sneezing. Unlike a mild cold, this won’t go away in a day or two; your puppy might cough so hard they gag, or snuffle constantly when trying to breathe. Some pups also develop diarrhea or vomiting—look for loose, foul-smelling stool or throw-up that’s more than just a one-time accident from eating too fast.

Neurological symptoms are more serious and need immediate action. Your puppy might have tremors in their paws, walk in wobbly circles, or even have seizures. I once helped a owner whose 3-month-old Lab mix started tilting their head and drooling excessively—turns out, it was distemper affecting their nervous system. The sooner they got to a vet, the better their chance of recovery.

Local laws often require puppies to get distemper vaccines as part of their health records, usually starting at 6-8 weeks old. Skipping these shots not only puts your pup at risk but can also violate pet licensing rules in many areas. If you adopt a puppy without vaccine records, a vet can run tests to check for distemper, which is required before enrolling them in dog parks or training classes in most cities.

Don’t confuse distemper with a regular cold—cold symptoms fade, but distemper gets worse without treatment. If your puppy has any of these signs, call a vet right away. Never give them human meds like cold syrup; these can be toxic and mask symptoms, making it harder for vets to diagnose. Keep your sick pup away from other dogs, too—distemper is highly contagious, and spreading it could lead to legal trouble in some regions.

Knowing the signs of distemper isn’t just about keeping your puppy healthy—it’s part of being a responsible owner. By staying on top of vaccines, watching for early symptoms, and following local pet health laws, you’ll give your furry friend the best shot at a happy, healthy life. Remember, vets are your best resource—they can spot distemper even when symptoms seem mild, and start treatment before it’s too late.