Your dog relies on you for care, love, and a little extra attention to stay happy and healthy.
While regular vet visits are essential, you can also do simple checks at home to make sure your furry friend is feeling their best.
These little routines help you spot changes early so your vet can step in if needed. Think of them as a way to stay tuned in to your dog’s well-being and strengthen the bond you share.
Here are five regular checks you can start doing today.
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5 checks you can do at home to help keep your dog healthy, Dog with owner image via Canva
Dog with owner – image via Canva
1. Monitor Their Weight
Weight is one of the easiest ways to track your dog’s health. You can use a scale or simply feel their body. You should be able to feel their ribs semi-easily, and their waist should be visible when you look from above.
Sudden weight gain or loss can be a sign of health problems, so make sure to note any changes and talk to your vet if you’re concerned.
5 checks you can do at home to help keep your dog healthy, unipaws Digital Pet Scale image via Amazon
unipaws Digital Pet Scale – image via Amazon
2. Check Their Coat and Skin
A healthy coat is usually shiny and smooth.
Look for patches of hair loss, redness, bumps, or flaky skin. These can be signs of allergies, parasites, or infections.
Brushing your dog regularly helps you spot issues early and keeps their fur looking its best.
3. Monitor Their Blood Pressure
Some dogs can develop high blood pressure, especially as they age or if they have certain health conditions.
Pet-friendly monitors make measuring blood pressure at home possible, if you want to keep an eye on things between vet visits.
Keeping track of your dog’s blood pressure helps prevent heart and kidney problems.
5 checks you can do at home to help keep your dog healthy, Veterinary Blood Pressure Monitor for Dogs image via Amazon
Veterinary Blood Pressure Monitor for Dogs – image via Amazon
4. Look at Their Eyes, Ears, and Mouth
Clear eyes without discharge, clean ears without strong odors, and pink gums are all signs of good health. Bad breath, yellowing of the eyes, or excessive ear scratching can signal an underlying problem.
Take a moment each week to give these areas a gentle check.
5 checks you can do at home to help keep your dog healthy, Dog high five image via Canva
Dog high-five – image via Canva
5. Watch Their Energy and Behavior
Changes in energy, appetite, or behavior are often the first signs something is off. If your dog seems unusually tired, restless, or irritable, take note.
Sometimes subtle changes are easy to miss but can indicate health issues that need vet attention.
Final Thoughts
Taking a little time each week to check on your dog’s health can make a big difference.
These simple steps not only help you spot problems early but also give you peace of mind and strengthen the bond you share with your furry companion.
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