How to Health Check Your Dog

Looking after your dog’s health goes beyond regular vet visits. While essential, there are many small things you can do at home to keep your pet in top shape. Performing monthly health checks, keeping an eye on their overall condition, and maintaining their wellbeing will help catch any issues early, ensuring they live a happy, healthy life.

The Importance of Preventative Healthcare

Preventative healthcare isn’t just about avoiding illness; it’s about creating a positive experience for both you and your dog while maintaining their health. Routine health checks can catch potential problems early and make veterinary visits less stressful since your dog will already be familiar with being examined. These checks also allow you to monitor your pet’s condition, offering peace of mind and ensuring you spot changes before they become significant concerns.

Getting Started: Preparing for At-Home Health Checks

Building Confidence
Before diving into your dog’s health check routine, it’s essential to ensure your dog is comfortable with being handled. If they seem uneasy, take a break and gradually work up to longer sessions over time. Keeping things calm and gentle is key to a positive experience.

Location Matters
Choose a quiet, calm location for your health checks. A non-slip surface like a yoga mat or rug will help keep your dog steady. The more relaxed the environment, the better the experience will be.

Positive Reinforcement
Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement, so make sure to reward them with their favourite treats, praise, or even some gentle stroking during and after the check. This helps them associate the process with good things.

Go Slow and Steady
Introducing your dog to health checks gradually is crucial. Start by examining different parts of their body over a few weeks, slowly building up until you’re able to check them all in one go. Always stop if your dog seems uncomfortable.

Consistency is Key
Consistency helps your dog know what to expect. Performing checks in the same order, such as starting with their eyes and finishing with their tail, makes it easier for them and for you to stay organised. Plus, this order helps with hygiene, avoiding cross-contamination between different areas.

What to Look For During Health Checks

Head and Face

Your dog’s face should be symmetrical with no signs of swelling or tilting. Eyes should be bright, with pupils of equal size, and free from discharge or redness. Watch out for excessive pawing at their eyes or shaking their head, which could indicate discomfort.

When it comes to ears, there should be no redness, swelling, or foul odour. Earwax is normal, but any discharge or crusting should be checked by a vet.

A dog’s nose should be moist and free from excess crusting or discharge. Their mouth, teeth, and gums should also be in good condition. Gums should be pink and moist, and their teeth shouldn’t show signs of wear or decay. Neutral breath is another indicator of good dental health.

Body Condition

Run your hands down your dog’s body. You should feel their ribs without pressing too hard. From above, they should have a defined waist (though some breeds, like Bulldogs, may be an exception). Their belly should tuck upwards when viewed from the side. Overweight dogs or those with poor muscle tone might show signs of sagging.

Skin and Coat

A healthy coat is a great indicator of overall health. Look for any cuts, lumps, bald spots, or signs of parasites like fleas or ticks. Flea dirt, which appears as black specks in the fur, is a warning sign. Dry skin, dandruff, or clumps of fur may point to poor nutrition or other underlying health issues. These are all good reasons to consult your vet.

Legs and Paws

Check your dog’s legs for any swelling or unusual warmth, which could signal an injury. Pay close attention to their paws, looking for any foreign objects like grass seeds or splinters. Make sure their nails are not overgrown, as this can lead to discomfort.

Tail and Genitals

Your dog’s tail should be in a relaxed, neutral position. As this is a sensitive area, be gentle during inspections. Their genitals and anus should be clean and free from swelling or irritation. Female dogs in season may show some vulval swelling, but anything unusual warrants a check with the vet. Always look for signs of itchiness or lumps in these areas.

Common Health Concerns to Watch For

Being aware of common conditions can help you stay vigilant during your checks:

• Fleas and Ticks – Keep your dog up to date on vet-prescribed treatments.
• Worms – Regular treatment is key to avoiding infestation.
• Obesity – Monitor their weight and keep them active. Weighing their food and controlling treats can make a significant difference.
• Vomiting and Diarrhoea – Avoid sudden dietary changes and ensure your dog eats a balanced, complete diet. Always monitor for scavenging or contact with unwell or unvaccinated dogs.
• Ear, Eye, and Skin Infections – Regularly clean your dog’s ears and check their eyes for signs of discomfort.
• Foreign Objects – After walks, inspect your dog for grass seeds or other debris stuck in their coat or paw pads.

The Bigger Picture: Is Your Dog Happy and Healthy?

While performing these checks, take a step back and consider your dog’s overall wellbeing. Are they alert and responsive? Do they move comfortably, without signs of pain or stiffness? Is their appetite normal, and are they enjoying life?

Being a conscientious pet owner means performing these at-home exams regularly. It’s an excellent way to spot problems early, and because you know your dog better than anyone else, you’ll be the first to notice if something isn’t quite right. An investment in these checks is an investment in your dog’s long-term health and happiness.