Taking care of a dog is typically pretty straight forward. You have to make sure that they eat every day, that they have a safe place to sleep at night, and that they get the love and attention they deserve as a furry member of your family. But dealing with a sick dog may become tricky -- not to mention stressful.
This is why it's important to know some common signs that your dog is sick and when to take your dog to the vet so that they can get the care they need before things get too serious. Following are some signs to look for that indicate it's time to see your veterinarian right away:
Dog Lethargy 
If your dog is sleeping or laying around more than usual and does not seem to have the same spunk they usually do, it might be a good idea to have them checked out by your veterinarian. Lethargy can indicate an ailment of some kind, such as a kidney infection or even an injury. Your veterinary team will help you investigate just what the underlying issue is.
Not Eating or Drinking
A day of no eating is nothing to worry about for the most part, but if your dog is not interested in eating for two or more days in a row, it is time to take them to the vet. If they don't drink for the entire day, they may be dehydrated due to illness and need to be seen right away. Just like with lethargy, reduced eating and/or drinking can signal so many different potential problems, from mouth pain to an intestinal blockage -- and anything in between. A thorough exam is vital to getting your best friend feeling better.
Consistent Ear Scratching
If your dog starts to scratch at their ears throughout the day, it is a good idea to have them checked for an ear infection. Some dogs tend to whine or whimper while scratching at their ears, which is a sure sign of infection or other ailments. Untreated infections are, of course, dangerous themselves, but that constant scratching can lead to issues on its own. Injury and bruising, even up to aural hematoma (think of a giant, painful blood blister), may occur. The sooner you seek treatment for your pup, the better so that you can avoid more serious problems.
These are just three of the many reasons you may need to bring your dog to the vet. You know your pet best. When something doesn't seem right, that is a good time to pay attention. Catching a problem before your pet has lost weight or shows outward signs of disease often results in fewer treatments and less distress for your pet. If something -- anything! -- seems out of the ordinary, call your family veterinarian!