Hey there, first-time dog owners! So, you have finally got yourself a furry friend – congrats! But now, it is important to make sure they are healthy and happy, right? Regular check-ups with the vet are a good idea, but it’s also good to know what to look for on your own. In this post, we will go over the top nine signs of a healthy dog, so you can keep an eye out for your pup’s well-being. Let’s dive in!
A shiny and healthy coat:
A healthy dog will have a shiny and clean coat, which is for sure! Just like us, a healthy diet, regular grooming and enough exercise can help keep their coat looking its best. A healthy coat should be free of any signs of dryness, flaking, or dandruff. It should be shiny, smooth, and well-groomed. If you notice that your dog’s coat is dull, dry, or has flaking or dandruff, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue, and it is best to consult your veterinarian for further examination. Grooming your dog regularly, providing them with a balanced diet, and making sure they get enough exercise can all help to keep their coat looking healthy and shiny.
Bright and clear eyes:
When it comes to a healthy dog, one of the key things to look for is their eyes. A dog’s eyes should be bright, alert and clear, without any signs of redness, discharge, or cloudiness. This means that the whites of their eyes should be white, and their pupils should be clear and dark.
Good appetite:
A dog that is excited about mealtime and eats their food with enthusiasm is likely to be in good health. However, it’s important to note that a healthy dog will also have a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight. A dog that is overweight or underweight can have a number of health issues such as diabetes, joint problems, and even shortened lifespan. If you notice your dog is losing or gaining weight rapidly, it is best to consult your veterinarian to make sure everything is okay.
Good energy levels:
A healthy dog should have a good energy level, showing interest in playing and exercise, and should be able to move around comfortably without any signs of pain or discomfort. Dogs should be able to walk, run and jump with ease, and should be willing to engage in physical activity. If you notice that your dog is lethargic, unwilling to play or exercise, or is limping or showing signs of pain when moving, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. It’s important to take your dog to the vet for a check-up, to make sure everything is okay. Regular exercise and playtime are essential for a dog’s physical and mental well-being, so make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and playtime to stay healthy and happy.
Regular bowel movements:
So, you are probably wondering what’s normal when it comes to your pup’s bathroom habits, right? Well, a healthy dog will have regular bowel movements, and their poops should be nice and firm. And it is good to keep an eye on the schedule, too – your dog should be doing their thing on a regular basis, without any long stretches of constipation or diarrhea. If you notice anything different or off, it is always best to check with the vet to make sure everything is A-okay. Keep an eye out for your pup’s poop, it can tell you a lot about their health!
Clean, White Teeth:
Well, a healthy dog will have clean, white teeth – you know, the kind that sparkle like a Hollywood star’s! And no plaque or tartar build-up either. And let’s not forget about their breath – it should be fresh and clean, not have any funky odours. Just like us, our furry friends need proper dental care to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Regular tooth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can help keep your dog’s teeth in tip-top shape.
Visible Waist and Tight Abdominal Area:
You know how some days you look in the mirror and think ‘wow, I look good’, well, it’s the same for our furry friends! A healthy dog will have a well-maintained body shape, with a visible waist, and a tight abdominal area. A dog that is at a healthy weight should have a waist that is easily discernible when viewed from above, and their abdominal area should be tight and not saggy. It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s weight, and make sure they are getting the right amount of exercise and eating a balanced diet.
Body Temperature between 101 – 102.4 Fahrenheit:
A healthy dog’s body temperature is an important indicator of their overall well-being. The normal body temperature for a dog is between 101 and 102.5 Fahrenheit. This can vary slightly from dog to dog and breed to breed, but it is generally within this range. It’s important to take your dog’s temperature if you notice any signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. If your dog’s temperature falls outside the normal range, it could be an indication of an underlying health issue, and it’s best to consult your veterinarian for further examination. Taking your dog’s temperature is a simple process, it can be done rectally with a thermometer, and it’s a good practice to learn as a dog owner.
Heart Rate at 60-120 beats per minute:
A healthy adult dog’s heart rate should be between 60 and 120 beats per minute. It’s like a little drummer in their chest, keeping the beat! But, just like us, things can change. If your dog is excited, stressed or exercising, their heart rate might be higher than normal. And, on the other hand, if they’re relaxed or sleeping, it might be lower. It’s always good to have a baseline for your dog’s heart rate, and if you notice any significant changes, it’s best to consult your veterinarian for further examination.
In conclusion, as a first-time dog owner, it’s essential to be able to identify the signs of a healthy dog. If you notice any changes or abnormalities in your dog’s health, consult your veterinarian immediately. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help ensure that your dog is healthy, but it’s also important to be aware of these signs of good health and to address any concerns as soon as possible.
