How to Determine Your Dog’s Health Based on Key Physical Traits?

The temperature changes during the autumn and winter seasons can easily cause shifts in the body, making both pet owners and dogs susceptible to colds or discomfort. Particularly in colder weather, owners may instinctively reduce the opportunities for taking their dogs outside on a leash. However, staying indoors with air conditioning can lead to a significant temperature difference between indoors and outdoors. So, what noticeable physical traits can help us determine if our dog is healthy?

1. Dog’s Lethargy or Lack of Energy A dog’s energy level is a clear sign of its health or illness. A healthy dog typically wags its tail, is lively and playful, whether it’s going outside with its owner on a leash or playing indoors. But if a dog suddenly becomes unusually sleepy, with drooping ears and lacks the energy to follow its owner on walks or play, this indicates that the dog is not feeling well. Sometimes, dogs might be low-energy due to mood changes, but more often, it’s a sign of physical discomfort that requires the owner’s attention and possibly a vet visit. 2. Dog Frequently Scratching Its Eyes or Ears If a dog often scratches its eyes, the owner should check if there is excessive eye discharge, severe tear stains, or if something like dust or foreign particles has entered the eyes. Using pet-safe products to clean the eyes and maintaining a light diet can help. The dog’s ears are also prone to infections, so owners should trim the hair inside the ears while grooming. If there is dark brown or black buildup in the ears, it is likely caused by ear mites, which can lead to inflammation and infection. It’s important to take the dog to the vet promptly for treatment. 3. Dog’s Nose Is Too Dry A moist nose is often considered a sign of a healthy dog, which is common knowledge for many dog owners. Therefore, a dry nose could indicate health issues. Typically, a dry nose may be caused by respiratory problems, fever, or dehydration. It’s important to monitor the dog’s health with regular check-ups and provide enough water, especially during the autumn and winter seasons. Adding moisture to the air can also help prevent the dog from becoming dehydrated. In addition to these three signs, pet owners can also assess their dog’s health by examining the smoothness and dryness of its fur during regular grooming. It’s crucial for pet owners to ensure their dogs receive adequate nutrition for good health, but avoid overfeeding or blindly introducing new foods. Many human foods are unsuitable for dogs, and the dietary needs of dogs change with their age. If a dog refuses to eat, do not immediately switch to a different food or offer treats; instead, try to identify the cause and gradually address the issue. Do you know of any other signs to judge your dog’s health? Feel free to share them with us!