Easy to do health checks for your dogs!

We've complied some information below that is full of easy ways in which you can safley check your own pups and dogs to make sure they are happy and well. If anything seems a little strange or out of charcter for more than 2 days, see your vet straight away.

 

 

Ears

Lift the ear flap and look inside, also gently feel behind the whole ear to see whether there is any dirt, wax or odour illuminating from the ear.

Mouth

Gently lift up his lip folds to check his teeth and open his jaw to check in his mouth. Check for tartar on the teeth. If he has lots he may need to go to the vets and have this removed, as it can cause gums to be sore and teeth to decay.

Eyes

Check his eyes are not red and there is no excessive discharge.

Nose

Check for any excessive discharge, and also for any coughing or sneezing as this could be a sign of kennel cough.

Body

Check his body all over for any lumps and bumps, note if any are changing in size or shape. Look for any bald patches, irritations, soreness or scabs on the skin, check for fleas and keep an eye on any excessive scratching or nibbling.
Look out for matts in long-haired dogs as, if left, can be uncomfortable and lead to infections.

Feet

Lift his feet up and gently check the pads for any foreign bodies. Keep an eye on the length of nails, if you dog mainly walks on grass or soft ground, he may need his nails cut regularly.

Bottom

Keep an eye on his faeces as loose faeces can be a sign he is not well. Also check there are no worms present and no blood.
Long-haired dogs may need their back end washed and groomed regularly to prevent attracting flies.

Signs that your dog may be unwell

A dog will not always obviously let us know he is in pain or unwell, however these subtle signs could mean all is not well:

• Lethargic
• Restless
• Not eating/eating less
• Excessive drinking
• Keeping to himself, not wanting to be fussed
• Out of the ordinary behaviour, e.g. growling when touched.

As well as a basic health check, your dog will need to visit the vet for regular flea treatment, worming treatment and vaccinations.
After you have given your dog a health check make sure you give him plenty of praise and treats. If at any point he is not happy with being checked over then stop and try another time, make a note of which bit he did not like being touched as this could be a sign of pain.

If you have any concerns about the health of your dog then take him to see your vet.