Weight

Run your fingertips along your dog's ribs. If you can feel them, without being able to see them, your four-legged friend is roughly the correct weight. If you can't, your dog could be over-weight

For more information about checking healthy bodyweight – click here

Water

Increases in thirst can highlight many problems such as kidney disease, infections or hormonal problems such as diabetes and should be investigated as soon as possible by a vet.

Don’t forget... if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s health, mobility, energy levels or appearance, you should always consult your vet.

Eyes & Ears

Both are very sensitive areas of a dog's body and redness in either will require a trip to the vet as soon as possible to be checked.  

Eyes should look glossy, clear and symmetrical.  Ears should have pale skin and whilst a small amount of wax is ok, the ear should not be red/pink, sore or smelly.

Some dogs with floppy ears will need regular cleaning and attention to keep them healthy. A vet can give you guidance on the best ear cleaner for you particular dog

Don’t forget... if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s health, mobility, energy levels or appearance, you should always consult your vet.

Teeth

Your dog’s teeth should be white and clean whilst gums should be pink in colour. Teeth should not be chipped, discoloured or broken.

Oral health issues in pets are some of the most common disorders vets see in their surgeries. If left untreated, they can cause pain and chronic bacterial infections.

For more information about maintaining good oral care for your dog - click here

Don’t forget... if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s health, mobility, energy levels or appearance, you should always consult your vet.

Nose

Dogs’ noses come in all sizes and shapes and don't always have to be wet and cold, however nostrils themselves should be damp and free from discharge.

Nails

N is also for nails.  Watch for ingrowing nails especially shaggy breeds where it's less easy to spot.  Overgrown nails can break and be very painful for dogs.

Don’t forget... if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s health, mobility, energy levels or appearance, you should always consult your vet.

Odours

Smelly breath can indicate dental disease or blocked anal glands which would need checking by a vet.  

Your dog's skin also shouldn't smell unless he/she has rolled in something and 'wind' is often an indicator of poorly digested food or intestinal upsets.

If your dog’s ears are infected, their smell could also be a good indicator of this.

Don’t forget... if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s health, mobility, energy levels or appearance, you should always consult your vet.

Skin

Rashes or orange staining especially around feet and face from excessive licking can highlight skin disease such as allergies.

You should check your dog regularly for fleas and treat where necessary.  

Skin should be pale (almost white) with no crusts, spots or excessive flaking.

Avoid over shampooing your dog and use a balanced pH shampoo that fits their skin type (ask your vet for an appropriate one).

Don’t forget... if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s health, mobility, energy levels or appearance, you should always consult your vet.

Energy

Any sudden change in your dog's energy can highlight health problems.  Don't presume a slowing down of energy in your dog is just because he/she is getting older.  

Lethargy and exercise intolerance can be a sign of arthritis, heart disease or hormonal problems and so is always worth being checked by a vet.

Don’t forget... if you notice any sudden changes in your dog’s health, mobility, energy levels or appearance, you should always consult your vet.