General Dog Health: What Every Owner Should Know

Being a dog owner is about a lot more than just filling a bowl and going for a quick walk. To really give them a great life, you’ve got to get a handle on the basics things like nutrition, exercise, grooming, and knowing when something just isn't right. When you understand these foundations, you’re not just keeping them alive; you’re helping them thrive at every age.

Getting to Know Your Dog’s "Normal"

Health starts with paying attention. You need to know your dog’s typical appetite, energy levels, and even how their coat looks on a good day. It’s much easier (and usually a lot cheaper) to get on top of a small issue early than to deal with a full-blown emergency later.

What a Healthy Dog Looks Like

Generally, a dog that’s doing well will have:

• Bright eyes and clean ears.
• A shiny coat without a lot of dandruff.
• A steady appetite and a healthy weight.
• Social, energetic behavior (for their breed).
• Regular, solid bathroom habits.

Vital Signs You Can Check at Home

It’s a good idea to know their "baseline" numbers so you can tell when they’re off:

• Temperature: Usually between 38.3°C and 39.2°C.
• Heart Rate: 60–140 beats per minute (smaller dogs usually have faster heartbeats).
• Breathing: 10–35 breaths per minute while resting.
• Hydration: Their gums should feel moist, not tacky or sticky.

Feeding Them Right

A balanced diet is the fuel for their immune system and muscles.

How to pick the right food:

• Age matters: Puppies need a lot of calories; seniors usually need less.
• Size matters: Big dogs often need extra joint support.
• Lifestyle: A couch potato doesn't need the same food as a working farm dog.

Avoid these common slip-ups:

• Overfeeding: Obesity is one of the biggest health risks for dogs.
• Table scraps: Many human foods (like onions, grapes, or chocolate) are actually toxic.
• Quick swaps: Switching food brands overnight can really mess with their stomach.

Keeping Their Mind and Body Busy

Dogs need a workout for their brains as much as their legs.

• Physical: Smaller dogs might just need a backyard game, while bigger breeds usually need a proper daily walk or run.
• Mental: Use puzzle feeders, hide treats for "scent games," or spend ten minutes on obedience training. A tired brain usually means a well-behaved dog.

The "Must-Have" Vet Care

Routine visits are the backbone of a long life.

• Vaccinations: These protect against nasty stuff like Parvovirus and Distemper.
• Parasites: You’ve got to stay on top of fleas, ticks, and worms (especially heartworm) year-round. It’s a lot easier to prevent them than to get rid of them.

Grooming Isn't Just for Looks

Keeping them clean prevents infections.

• Teeth: Brush them if you can! Dental disease affects most dogs by age three.
• Nails: Keep them trimmed so they don't change how your dog walks.
• Ears: Especially important for dogs with floppy ears that trap moisture.

Red Flags: When to Worry

Dogs are tough and often hide their pain. Keep an eye out for:

• Vomiting or diarrhea that won’t stop.
• Drinking way more water than usual.
• Limping, stiffness, or struggling to get up.
• Changes in personality (like a sweet dog suddenly getting snappy).
• Coughing or heavy breathing while resting.

Looking After Your Senior

As they get older, things slow down. They might get a bit of arthritis or lose some vision. You can help them out with:

• Extra-soft bedding for sore joints.
• Senior-specific diets that are easier to digest.
• Shorter, gentler walks to keep them moving without overdoing it.

Common Questions

How often should we see the vet?

For a healthy adult, once a year is usually fine. Puppies and old-timers need more frequent check-ins.

How much exercise do they actually need?

Most dogs need at least 30 to 60 minutes a day. If they’re destructive at home, they probably need more!

How do I tell if they’re dehydrated?

Touch their gums. If they feel dry or "tacky" instead of wet, or if they seem super lethargic, they need water (and maybe a vet) ASAP.

What are the "core" vaccines?

Usually, it’s Parvovirus, Distemper, Adenovirus, and Rabies (depending on where you live). Your vet will tell you what's necessary for your area.