14/05/2026
You know your dog better than anyone. You know when they're happy, when they're tired, and when something just isn't right. But would you know what to do if your dog had a seizure? Choked on a treat? Collapsed in the heat?
Most dog owners hope they'll never face those moments — but hope isn't a plan. Here are five signs that your dog may be in serious trouble, and why knowing what to do next could save their life.
1. Pale or White Gums
Healthy dog gums should be bubble-gum pink. If you press them and they don't return to pink within 2 seconds, or if they look white, grey or blue — this is a medical emergency. It can signal shock, internal bleeding, or heart failure.
2. Laboured or Noisy Breathing
A dog that's working hard to breathe, breathing with their mouth open (unusual in dogs), or making rasping sounds may be choking, in respiratory distress, or suffering from heatstroke. Don't wait to see if it passes.
3. Sudden Collapse or Weakness
If your dog suddenly drops to the floor, can't stand, or seems weak in their back legs, this could point to a cardiac event, poisoning, severe pain, or neurological problem. Treat it as an emergency immediately.
4. Bloated or Hard Abdomen
A swollen, tense belly — especially in larger breeds — can be a sign of bloat. This condition can be fatal within hours without veterinary intervention.
5. Repeated Vomiting or Retching Without Producing Anything
Occasional vomiting happens. But if your dog is retching repeatedly and bringing nothing up, this can be a sign of bloat or an obstruction — both of which require urgent veterinary care.
So What Should You Do?
Knowing the signs is the first step. But knowing what to do next — how to check airways, how to perform canine CPR, how to keep a dog calm and stable while getting to a vet — that's where first aid training comes in.
At Red Fox Learning, we run hands-on canine first aid courses designed for dog owners just like you.
Because the two minutes between something going wrong and getting to a vet? Those two minutes belong to you.
👉 Find out about our upcoming courses on our website