What Signs Do You Look for to Know if Your Dog Is Still Okay?
Has your family pet’s behavior recently changed? He probably scratches more often than usual. Does he eat more food than normal or less? Give your veterinarian a call to determine if an examination is required if you have issues regarding the health or behavior of your dog. Changes from the ordinary might be a reason for alarm and reveal a deeper problem. Caring dog owners want to provide for their pets. Follow these fundamental canine health suggestions to keep your dog healthy.
Signs of Good Health
These are the usual indications you can use as a benchmark to identify if your dog is healthy:
Ears
Some yellow or brownish wax should be present; however, an excessive quantity is abnormal. Your dog shouldn’t be scratching or shaking its head at its ears, which must be free of any thick, dark, or green wax, odor, or inflammation. It may take additional care to keep the ears dry and clean on canines with long, drooping ears.
Eyes
Although clean and little mucus and watery tears are usual, there shouldn’t be any swelling or yellow discharge on the pink lining of the eyelids. If your pet dog’s eyes are red, puffy, or runny, or if they appear to be in pain when exposed to light, call your vet as soon as possible.
Nose
Although a dog’s nose is generally cold and moist, it’s time to visit the vet if there is any bleeding, discharge, or color change. Clear nasal discharge is preferred; it should never be heavy, frothy, yellowish, or stinky. A cold, moist nose does not always suggest the dog is well. And a dry, warm nose does not indicate he is ill. The best method to identify his condition is to take his temperature.
Skin
Healthy skin is supple and flake-free, without red or raised spots, scabs, or growths. Depending on the breed, it has a color spectrum from pale pink to brown or black. Spotty skin is typical whether the canine has a solid coat or a coat of spots. Nevertheless, if you look, you shouldn’t see fleas, dandruff, or other problems.
Coat
Although your dog will likely shed hair all year long, with the summer and fall being the seasons when it sheds the most, bald patches shouldn’t ever develop. A healthy coat is shiny and malleable, without dandruff, bald patches, or excessive oiliness, whether short or long.
Ways to Keep Your Dog Healthy
Every vet will recommend that prevention is preferable to treatment. So, in addition to healthy, balanced food, you can ensure your puppy flourishes by giving it vaccinations, checkups, and quality dental care.
Nutrition
Never give your dog raw meat, raw eggs, or bones. Animals who consume raw meals risk developing major health concerns, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the CDC, and other organizations.
Vaccination
Vaccines are among the most dependable ways to safeguard your dog against dangerous ailments, including parvo, distemper, and rabies. The timing and shots they require will change depending on their health conditions and where they reside. The average puppy should receive their first round of vaccinations at six weeks old, followed by booster doses every three weeks until they are 16 weeks old. Every one to three years, adult dogs need to have a booster vaccine. You may visit their website here if you’re looking for a trusted veterinary facility.
Wellness Exams
A routine pet checkup gives owners an overall perspective of their pet’s health. Skin and fur are examined, along with his teeth. Stool and urine samples may be collected to test for infections and possible parasites. For instance, if he has concerns with weight control, the doctor may discuss a dietary and lifestyle change.
Dental Care
Your puppy or dog is likewise vulnerable to oral diseases like human teeth. You can maintain your dog’s dental health with a basic brushing regimen. The gums of healthy canines should be pink rather than red or inflamed, and the teeth should be white and free of excess tartar. Use dog toothpaste instead; human toothpaste won’t work as well. Read more about dental health.
Watch Out for Red Flags
Since dogs can not convey their suffering to their owners, be on the lookout for indications of the condition. If you see any symptoms that suggest your dog may have a health problem, for example:
- A discharge from the nose, eyes, or other body parts
- Any modification to dietary patterns
- Bald spots
- Breathing issues and lengthy panting
- Constipation or trouble urinating
- Fainting, stumbling, and losing balance
- If the dog’s periodontals are white
- Increased anxiety
- Limping, clutching, or defending a body part
- Oversleeping or a strange lack of activity
- Prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive urine
- Shivering
- Sneezing or coughing
- Weight reduction
- Whimpering without noticeable cause
