Dog Health Checklist — Daily Observation Points & Warning Signs

Dogs cannot tell us when they feel unwell. Daily observation by the owner is key to early detection and treatment. Make health checks a daily habit.

Daily Checkpoints

Eyes - Check for excessive discharge (small amounts of white discharge are normal) - Look for redness, excessive tearing, or squinting - Yellow whites of the eyes may indicate jaundice

Ears - Check for foul odor, dark earwax, or redness - Watch for head shaking or scratching at the ears - Brown buildup inside the ear may indicate otitis externa

Mouth and Teeth - Check for tartar buildup (hard brown-yellow deposits) - Monitor for worsening bad breath - Pale or white gums may indicate anemia

Skin and Coat - Look for dandruff, redness, or scratching/licking behavior - Feel for lumps or swelling during daily petting - Check that the coat has a healthy shine

Eating and Elimination - Is appetite consistent? - Has water intake changed? (Excessive drinking may indicate diabetes or kidney disease) - Is stool consistency, color, and volume normal? (Soft stool or bloody stool requires attention) - Is urine color, frequency, and volume normal?

Weekly Checks

• Weight: Sudden weight loss or gain may signal illness
• Nail length: Trim before nails curve and touch the floor
• Anal area: Check for soiling or swelling. Scooting may indicate anal gland issues

Signs Requiring Immediate Veterinary Care

Seek veterinary care immediately if you notice:

• Severe or persistent vomiting/diarrhea (especially with blood)
• Rapid, labored, or open-mouth breathing
• Lethargy, inability to stand, or reduced responsiveness
• Sudden abdominal swelling (possible gastric torsion)
• Seizures or unconsciousness
• Loss of appetite lasting more than 2 days
• Yellow skin or whites of the eyes

Recommended Checkup Schedule

• Under 7 years: Annual health screening (blood tests, X-rays, etc.)
• 7 years and older: Increase to twice yearly or more. Senior dogs' conditions can progress quickly

Combining daily petting with health checks strengthens your bond and helps you catch problems early.