Is your dog sick? Try this exam at-home
Is my dog’s nose supposed to be wet? (Yes, but not dripping.) What color are healthy dog gums? (Pale pink, not red.) Home checks are not replacements for vet visits, but they can help you notice health issues early. Regularly observe any changes in your dog’s behavior and do a simple nose-to-tail check to spot infections, injuries, or illnesses early.
At-home dog health exam
Skin
Check for lumps, scratches, scabs, or swelling. Dandruff and greasy or missing fur may signal skin or health issues. Part the fur to find fleas; small black specks that look like black pepper are "flea dirt" (flea feces that contain your pet's blood and turn red when wet). Monitor any lumps, especially if they develop after a vaccination.
Ears
Check for flaking, scabs, foul odor, excess wax or discharge, which could indicate an ear infection. If you see a black, gritty substance inside, your dog probably has ear mites, which are parasites that cause severe itching and are contagious to other pets.
Eyes
Check for bright, clear, and focused eyes. A common eye issue is conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the pink membrane around the eye and inside the eyelids. One or both eyes can be affected. If you notice redness, discoloration, or discharge, contact a veterinarian.
Download Conjunctivitis Fact Sheet from the Humane Society.
Mouth
Your dog's breath should smell normal, and their gums should be light pink. It's not normal for a dog to have bad breath, red gums, or brown stains on their gums or teeth. If you notice these problems, your dog might have broken or infected teeth, or something stuck in their mouth.
Nose
Your dog's nose should be clean and not have extra mucus, which could mean there's a respiratory infection. The nose can be warm or cold, and wet or dry—this is normal. However, if it's dry and also flaky, cracked, or red, it might be a sign of dehydration or sunburn.
Tail
Check under the tail. If you see something that looks like rice or spaghetti, your pet may have parasites that can spread to you or other pets. You'll need to get medication from your vet.
Feet
Check for torn or long nails, cuts, bumps, or infections. Long nails may curl or click on the floor when your dog walks. Regularly trim your dog's nails to about 2mm from the quick to keep them comfortable and avoid injuries.
If you notice a possible health issue, don't depend on the internet for advice. Many problems have similar signs but need different treatments, and most human medications can harm pets. Even medications that may be safe require different dosages. If you're unsure whether a symptom needs a vet's attention, call your vet's office for guidance.
Top 10 pet tips
Download e-book from the Humane Society which is full of important information about caring for your pet, including training techniques and answers to frequently asked questions.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Healthy
Schedule regular vet check-ups.
A good relationship with your veterinarian is vital for your pet's health and happiness. It helps us notice hidden illnesses early, resulting in better long-term care and lower treatment costs.
If you’re worried about veterinary costs, vets can help you find treatment options that fit your budget, from simple to more complex. Additionally, costs may not be as high as you think: a fecal or urine test is about $35, and eardrops usually cost under $30.
Notice any changes in your dog's behavior.
Symptoms that seem harmless, like scooting, shaking their head, pawing at ears or eyes, drooling, and drinking more water, can signal a medical problem. For instance, if your dog is scooting, they might have feces stuck to their fur or need their anal glands emptied. Regularly checking your dog’s anal glands can prevent painful and expensive issues like impaction or abscesses.
Brush your dog often.
Brush your dog’s fur, teeth, and trim their nails regularly. Brushing helps remove loose fur, dirt, and spreads natural oils, while also improving blood flow. Long-haired dogs need regular brushing and trims to prevent painful tangles. Brushing your dog’s teeth will help prevent dental problems, especially in small dogs with crowded teeth. Keeping nails trimmed helps your dog walk comfortably and prevents painful injuries that might require a vet.
Be prepared.
Prepare a disaster kit (pdf from ready.gov) and a first-aid kit for your dog. A pet first-aid kit should have a book on pet care, gauze, nonstick tape, pet shampoo, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, powder for bleeding (for small wounds), and activated charcoal (for poison). You can find pet first-aid kits at many pet supply stores.
