SeniorPaws

Home Health Check Guide for Your Dog

Regular at-home health checks can help you stay familiar with your dog’s normal condition and spot changes early. This guide shows you how to perform a gentle, safe assessment from head to tail.

Before You Start

Choose a calm time when your dog is relaxed.
Go slowly and use treats to keep the experience positive.
Stop if your dog shows stress, growling, or discomfort.

Step 1: Check the Head & Face

Eyes

Bright and clear, no excessive discharge
No redness, swelling, cloudiness, or constant squinting
Fur around eyes clean and dry

Ears

Light pink inside, no strong odor
Minimal wax, no scratching or head shaking
No discharge, redness, or swelling

Mouth & Teeth

Pink healthy gums (not pale, white, or bright red)
No excessive tartar, swollen gums, or bad breath
No drooling or difficulty chewing

Step 2: Check the Skin & Coat

Fur should be clean, soft, and free of bald spots
No fleas, ticks, scabs, flakes, or oily areas
No lumps, bumps, or tender areas when gently pressed
No rashes, red patches, or signs of irritation

Step 3: Check Body & Condition

Weight & Body Condition

Feel ribs easily but not visibly prominent
Watch for sudden weight loss or gain
Consistent appetite and energy level

Abdomen

Gently feel the belly for swelling, tightness, or discomfort
No pain when touched, no obvious distension

Step 4: Check Limbs, Paws & Mobility

Walk and watch for limping, stiffness, or hesitation
Feel joints for swelling or warmth
Check paws: nails, paw pads, cuts, or foreign objects
No pain when standing, sitting, or lying down

Step 5: Monitor Vital Signs (Basic Observation)

Breathing

Relaxed and steady at rest
No heavy panting without reason, coughing, or wheezing

Energy & Behavior

Normal activity level, not overly lethargic or restless
No sudden changes in personality or habits

Step 6: Check Digestive & Urinary Habits

Normal, consistent appetite
Regular bowel movements, no diarrhea or constipation
Normal drinking and urinating, no accidents or straining
No vomiting or frequent nausea

When to Seek Veterinary Support

Contact your vet promptly if you notice:

Sudden weight loss or gain
Persistent limping or pain
Lumps that grow or change
Abnormal gum color, vomiting, or diarrhea
Difficulty breathing or extreme lethargy
Any change that lasts more than 24–48 hours

Important Notes

At-home checks are for personal observation only. They do not replace professional veterinary evaluation. Always consult a veterinarian for ongoing care and guidance.

Standard Disclaimer

This guide is for general care and safety purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your veterinarian for health-related questions.