Skin and coat
- Your dog’s fur should be nice and shiny, and any bald patches need to be monitored.
- The presence of dandruff can be a sign their diet isn’t meeting all their nutritional needs. If their skin is often red, itchy and sore, or if you find any lesions, please visit your vet.
- Dogs with lighter skin are more prone to cancer, so be sure to look for any new lumps, bumps or changes in skin pigmentation.
Ears
While a small amount of wax is normal, check for signs of debris, discharge, blood, dirt or excessive wax. In most cases, swelling or change in skin colour isn’t normal, and any odour coming from your dog’s ears may require a vet visit.
Eyes
Eyes should be nice and clear, without any redness, excessive discharge or weeping.
Nose
Noses should be free of discharge and swelling, and you should always check for changes in skin pigmentation or sores that won’t heal.
Mouth, teeth and gums
- Your dog’s teeth should be nice and white, and there shouldn’t be any chips. If there is any tartar build-up, it’s probably a good idea to visit your vet and talk to them about changing your pet’s diet or other dental care options.
- Healthy gums should be pink, so be sure to check for receding gums, bleeding or swelling.
- A healthy mouth should also be free of ulcers and lesions.
Respiration
Breathing should always be nice and even, with no raspiness. Any wheezing, coughing or an increased effort in breathing should be checked with a vet as soon as possible.
Nails and paw pads
- Check their paw pads regularly, especially between the toes during grass seed season.
- Look for discolouration, lesions or bleeding, and if your pet is showing signs of lameness or their paws are sore to the touch, organise a visit to your vet.
- If your pet’s nails need a trim, ensure you’re not cutting too close to the quick as this can be very painful.
Mobility
Lack of mobility, favouring one limb, or lameness is a sign that something is not quite right, so you should always keep an eye on how your pet moves. Are they getting enough exercise?
Are they having difficulty getting up or sitting down? Are they not as playful as usual? Your pet may be getting old and could benefit from supplements or pain-management medications.
Your pet’s weight
One of the most important things you can do for your pet’s health is ensure their diet and weight is monitored, as obesity is linked to diseases, including cancer and heart disease, and can put stress on organs and joints. How to spot doggy diabetes
You know them best
Getting to know what's ‘normal’ for your pet is one of the best ways to spot potential health issues early. You'll learn how they breathe, how they smell all over, what noises they make, how they lie down, when and where they scratch, how warm they feel, etc. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it's best to contact your vet for a check as soon as possible.
Source: rspca.org.au
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