Maintaining your dog’s health is an integral part of their wellbeing and happiness. Keeping an eye out for signs that they’re healthy can help you detect any issues early on and get them to the vet quickly.
A healthy dog will appear alert, bright-eyed and content. They may wag their tails often or move around in an exuberant, playful manner.
- Physical Appearance
One of the most obvious signs of a healthy pet is their physical appearance. A healthy pet should have a shiny coat, bright eyes, and healthy skin. Their coat should be smooth and free from matting or bald spots, and their skin should be free from any rashes or sores.
Healthy pets should also be at a healthy weight. You should be able to feel their ribs and spine without having to press too hard, and their waist should be visible when viewed from above. If you’re unsure about your pet’s weight, consult with your veterinarian.
- Behavior and Personality
Healthy pets should exhibit normal behavior and personality traits. They should be social and enjoy interacting with their owners and other pets. They should also be curious and playful, engaging in activities such as playing with toys or exploring their environment.
If your pet’s behavior or personality changes suddenly or dramatically, this could be a sign of an underlying health issue or emotional distress. Consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet’s behavior or personality.
- Eyes
Your pet’s eyes are an integral part of their body. They adjust to changing light conditions and focus on objects both near and far.
When your dog or cat’s eyes are healthy, you should notice they have bright, clear pupils with equal sizes. Shining a light into the eye should provide clarity; you may need to tilt their head back in order to see it better.
A yellow blob in the cornea or redness around the white of the eye are signs of cataracts. If the pink conjunctiva (pink membranes surrounding the eye) is not pink, this could indicate interstitial keratitis, glaucoma, or other eye issues.
A pet with red eyes or discharge should be seen by a veterinarian promptly. Dry eye, an underlying chronic condition, can cause pain and reduce your furry friend’s quality of life if not addressed promptly.
- Ears
Your dog’s ears are an important indicator of his overall wellbeing. They transmit sound and balance information to his brain, but can be damaged due to infections in the ear canal.
Healthy ears should be dry, smooth and pale pink in color with only a thin layer of ear wax. A thick layer may indicate that your dog has an ear infection.
Ear infections in dogs are a fairly common occurrence, and can affect all breeds. Factors that increase your dog’s likelihood of developing one include their breed, lifestyle and ear anatomy.
- Mouth
When checking for signs of health in your pet, the mouth is one of the first places to check. A healthy mouth should have gums that are uniform light pink in hue and teeth that show no discoloration or buildup of plaque around them.
A healthy mouth should have teeth that are intact (not jagged or broken), tongues that are moistened, no lumps or cuts, and is free from plaque and tartar.
Dental disease in pets is a very common condition that can have severe consequences if left untreated. A healthy mouth is the foundation of good oral hygiene and regular checkups from your veterinarian, while also contributing to a healthier diet that will help prevent painful dental issues and give your pup all of the nutrients they need for optimal wellness. Talk with your vet about finding the right diet for your furry friend’s lifestyle and needs.
- Body
A healthy pet is content, obedient and a delight to be around. Whether you have a dog, cat or both, you owe it to them to provide them with the best care possible. From regular vet checks to rewarding treats like gummy bears, they deserve nothing but the best from you. There are plenty of tricks for keeping your companions healthy between visits; investing in the latest pet tech from popular manufacturers could be one option. Ultimately though, proper nutrition and hydration are paramount for overall wellbeing.
