Like people, dogs are happiest when they’re healthy. This is the reason it is important to provide your pooch with proper nutrition, plenty of exercise, regular grooming, and ongoing dental and veterinary care. If you do, you’ll notice the results in his skin, eyes, coat, and other features.

Below, we’ll provide a quick checklist of six signs your canine’s health is in good hands. If one of the following clues is missing, it may be time to make an appointment with his veterinarian.

Clean Ears

Often neglected, a dog’s ears are a good barometer of his overall condition. The inside surface should be clean with a small amount of wax present (typically brown or gold-colored). If you notice a large accumulation of wax, it should be removed. Also, if your pooch scratches his ears often, that may be an indication of persistent discomfort.

Clean Gums And Teeth

Maintaining your dog’s oral health is critical. Small problems, such as tartar, can eventually lead to infection that gains access to his bloodstream. Once this happens, the infection can cause a number of secondary problems as it spreads throughout his body.

Your canine’s gums should be pink. Redness suggests inflammation due to gum disease. His teeth should be clean and free from food particles and other debris. If you notice a hard discolored substance, it is likely tartar. It should be removed before it can turn into periodontitis.

Smooth Skin And Clean Coat

Nearly all breeds have skin that is normally smooth and elastic. Spots are normal, but should not be raised. If they are, they may indicate fleas or other parasites. You should be able to buy the appropriate treatment at most pet supply stores.

Your canine’s coat should have a lustrous and shiny appearance. If you notice balding or white specks, have his veterinarian check to make sure there are no underlying health problems causing them.

Clear Eyes

If your dog is healthy, his eyes should be free from discoloration. Moreover, there should be no swelling or inflammation near his eyelids. You may see a small amount of mucous in the corners of his eyes; this is normal. An excessive amount, however, may indicate a problem and thus, warrants a call to his veterinarian.

Heart Rate Appropriate For His Size

Smaller canines tend to have quicker heart rates than larger dogs. Medical problems often cause the heart rate to slow or accelerate. This makes it a useful gauge – though limited – for determining whether your dog is healthy. Check with his veterinarian regarding an appropriate heart rhythm based on your canine’s size. Then, get into the habit of periodically checking his pulse.

Wet And Cool Nose

Your dog’s nose should be moist and cool to the touch. There may be a slight discharge, but it should be fluid and clear rather than thick and yellow. By itself, the nose is a poor indicator of your canine’s health. It is possible for your pooch to have a wet, cool nose, yet still be sick. Likewise, he may have a dry and crusty nose, and remain relatively healthy. It should be used along with other clues to note his overall condition.

Your dog’s health depends largely on you, his owner. He needs you to provide him with good quality food in the right portions; he requires daily walks for exercise; he needs regular grooming and dental care; and of course, regular trips to his veterinarian are crucial. These are the necessary ingredients to ensure he avoids developing health problems.

If you notice signs (e.g. foul breath, excess discharge from the eyes, etc.) that suggest your canine may be dealing with a problem, take him to a veterinarian. Often, a quick exam is all that is needed to resolve potential health issues.

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Category: Pets
Keywords: pets, dogs, dog chews, dog treats, dog behavior, being a dog owner, puppy vaccinations