How To Carry Out A Basic Health Check On Your Dog At Home

Make sure your dog is in tip-top form, and signs to look out for that they may need a trip to the vets.

As a pet owner, one of the best things you can do for your dog is to keep an eye on their health and well-being. Regular health checks at home can help you spot potential problems early, before they become more serious. While nothing replaces a professional vet visit, performing a basic health check on your dog yourself is a great way to stay in tune with their overall condition. Here's a simple guide to help you carry out a health check at home.

Check Your Dog's Weight

Monitoring your dog’s weight is a key indicator of their overall health. If your dog is gaining weight too quickly or losing weight unexpectedly, it could signal a health problem. To check their weight:

• Feel along their ribs; you should be able to feel them without pressing too hard, but they shouldn’t be overly prominent.

• Look at their waistline; when viewed from above, there should be a slight “waist” behind the ribs.

• If you're unsure, take your dog to a vet for a more accurate assessment or ask about ideal body weight for their breed and age.

  
  

Examine Their Coat and Skin

A healthy coat is usually shiny and free from bald patches or excessive shedding. Take some time to inspect your dog’s fur for:

• Matting or tangles, especially if your dog has long hair.

• Lumps or bumps, which could indicate cysts, tumours, or skin infections.

• Redness, scabs, or rashes that might suggest allergies, infections, or parasites.

• Fleas or ticks, which can hide in your dog’s coat, especially around the neck, ears, genital area and tail.

• Dry or flaky skin, which might point to a nutritional deficiency or other health concern.

Check Their Eyes

Healthy eyes should be bright, clear, and free from discharge. To examine your dog’s eyes:

• Look for any redness, cloudiness, or tearing, which could indicate an infection or eye disease.

• Check for excessive squinting or pawing at the eyes, which may indicate irritation or discomfort.

• Make sure the pupils are equal in size and respond to light changes (a vet should check if they aren’t).

Inspect the Ears

Ear infections are common in dogs, especially those with floppy ears. Here’s what to check for:

• Cleanliness: The inside of the ear should be clean and free of debris. A slight build-up of wax is normal, but excessive wax, odour, or discharge is a red flag.

• Odour: A strong, unpleasant smell often indicates an ear infection.

• Redness or swelling: This could indicate an infection, and you should take your dog to the vet.

• Scratching or head shaking: If your dog is frequently shaking their head or scratching at their ears, it could be a sign of an ear issue.

Check Their Teeth and Gums

Good dental health is essential for your dog’s overall health. Here's what to look for:

• Healthy gums should be pink, not red or swollen. If they’re inflamed or bleeding, it could point to gum disease.

• Teeth should be free from visible tartar build-up, and their breath shouldn’t smell foul (a strong odour can indicate dental problems or other health issues).

• Gently lifting your dog’s lips will help you see their teeth. If you notice loose teeth or worn-down teeth, it's time to visit the vet for a professional cleaning.

• Capillary Refill Time (CRT): Check this by lightly pressing down on the gums. The colour should change from white, back to pink within two seconds.

Look at Their Nails and Paws

Inspecting your dog’s paws and nails is important for overall health and comfort:

• Nails: Check that your dog’s nails aren’t too long. Overgrown nails can cause discomfort or even lead to infections. Trim the nails carefully, or ask your vet or groomer for advice if you’re unsure.

• Paws: Look for signs of irritation, redness, or cuts between the toes. Dirt and debris can get lodged here, so make sure to keep their paws clean and dry.

• Pads: The pads should be soft and smooth, not cracked or bleeding. Cracked pads can occur in extreme weather or from excessive activity.

Observe Their Breathing and Heart Rate

A dog’s breathing should be steady and calm when at rest. If your dog is panting excessively, has laboured breathing, or is wheezing, this could indicate a respiratory or heart problem.

• Breathing rate: Count how many times your dog breathes per minute while at rest. A normal rate is typically 8 to 40 breaths per minute, depending on their breed and size.

• Heart rate: You can check your dog’s heart rate by placing your hand on their chest, just behind the left elbow. Normal heart rate varies by breed and size but typically ranges from 60 to 180 beats per minute (bigger dogs will have a lower heart rate whist small dogs will have a higher heart rate)

Watch for Changes in Behaviour

A sudden change in behaviour can be one of the first signs that something is wrong. Look for:

• Increased lethargy or refusal to exercise.

• Loss of appetite or significant changes in eating habits.

• Changes in urination or defecation, such as more frequent or infrequent trips outside, straining, or blood in the stool or urine.

• Excessive drinking or urination, which could be a sign of kidney issues or diabetes.

Monitor Their Mobility

As dogs age, their joints can become stiff or painful. Watch for:

• Limping 

• Difficulty standing up or jumping as they normally would.

• Stiffness or reluctance to move after waking up or after exercise.

• Uneven stance could indicate they are weaker on either the back end or front end. The legs could be splayed outwards or they are standing with their legs closer together.

Regularly checking your dog’s health at home is a simple but effective way to spot potential issues before they become major problems. By getting into the habit of doing a basic health check, you’ll help ensure that your dog stays happy, comfortable, and healthy. However, remember that no home check can replace professional veterinary care. If you notice anything unusual, or if you’re unsure about any symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for further advice and treatment. Your dog’s health is your responsibility, and staying proactive can make all the difference in their well-being.