Evaluating Your Dog's Health

While a full-scale physical exam should be left to an expert (your veterinarian), your ability to perform home dog medical exams is a valuable skill. It allows you to become familiar with your dog's entire body, so you notice instantly when something isn't right. Your dog's regular grooming session is a great time to perform a home exam. The extra attention of a dog grooming is something she'll enjoy, and it's a good opportunity to spend some quality time together. Consider these dog health tips:

Skin and fleas. Start by looking for dry skin, dandruff, fleas, and flea dirt. To check for flea dirt, brush out your dog's coat over a white piece of paper or light-colored towel. If you see any little black specks, moisten them with a drop of water or smear them with a damp cotton ball. They'll turn red if they're flea dirt. Fleas, of course, can be picked up with a fine-toothed flea comb. Dip the flea comb in a bowl of soapy water -- the soap holds them down and keeps them from jumping out, and the water drowns them. If you find signs of any of these problems, consult your veterinarian. The vet can advise you on the best dog-care products or dog treatments.

As you comb or brush your dog, pay attention to her reaction. Does she enjoy the feel of the brush going through her fur, or does she flinch when you touch a certain spot? Examine the area for lumps or sores. If you find an area that seems painful, make a note of its appearance. Is the lump hard or soft? Oozing or rough? Pass this information on to your veterinarian.

Eyes, ears, and mouth. The eyes should be bright and clear, with no redness or runny discharge. Tear stains beneath the eyes may indicate a problem. Besides looking into your dog's ears (they should be dry, with no discharge), sniff them, too. It sounds strange, but an unpleasant odor in her ear is a sign of an infection that may be out of sight in the ear canal. While cleaning your dog's teeth, take a look around her mouth. The gums should be a healthy pink, not pale or red.

Paws. Finally, examine your dog's paws. Do the nails need to be trimmed? Long nails can get snagged and break and are difficult to walk on. If they get too long, your dog can even become lame. Finish the exam with a soothing massage. It's a good way to deepen the bond between you and your dog.

Keep a written record of your home exams so you know what's normal for your dog. Note her eating, sleeping, and elimination habits, as well as activity levels. By referring to this health diary on a regular basis, you'll notice immediately if something has changed -- and these records can be invaluable in helping your veterinarian diagnose any problems.