15 Signs That Show Your Puppy Is Healthy

Welcoming a new puppy fills your home with joy, playfulness, and boundless energy. However, it’s natural to worry about their health, especially for first-time pet parents. To ease your concerns, we’ve listed these 15 indicators to help you spot signs of a healthy pup—or when it’s time for a vet visit.
Fresh Breath

A fit puppy should have relatively fresh breath with no strong odor. Regular dental care includes brushing teeth and providing dental chews, which will prevent gum disease and bad breath. Persistent foul breath may indicate dental issues or other health problems.
Energetic Behavior

Dogs that are healthy are typically active and enthusiastic about playtime and exercise. On the contrary, if they seem unusually lazy or disinterested in activities they once enjoyed, it may be a sign of a health issue.
Clean and Odorless Ears

When you cuddle with your puppy and their ears are free of any waxy odor, it’s a great sign of health! Clean, odor-free ears mean they are doing well. Neglected ears can lead to infections that might cause discomfort and an unnecessary visit to the vet.
Bright and Clear Eyes

Another indicator of good health is clear and bright eyes with no redness, cloudiness, or discharge. Your pet’s eyes should not show signs of irritation or discomfort. Cloudy eyes, excessive tearing, or squinting might indicate underlying problems.
Shiny and Clean Coat

A glossy coat shows your pup is thriving and getting the correct nutrition. If the fur seems lackluster or dry, it might be more than a grooming issue and hint at dietary deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or conditions like Cushing’s Syndrome or diabetes.
Consistent Bowel Movements and Urination

We recommend examining your puppy’s poop and urine to gauge their health. Their stool should be free of worms, mucus, or blood, while urine should be a clear yellow or pale gold. For a proper diagnosis, visit the vet if you notice anything unusual.
Lean Weight

Your dog should maintain a consistent, lean weight. Pet obesity might lead to issues like diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems similar to those in humans. On the other hand, if your puppy suddenly loses weight, it might mean something is not quite right.
Normal Appetite

Any healthy canine generally has a steady appetite. Fluctuations in appetite or sudden weight loss or gain can indicate health problems. Regular feeding schedules, portion control, and routine vet check-ups help keep their weight in check and ensure they get the correct nutrients.
Breathing

Their breathing should be steady and unobstructed. Under normal circumstances, your pup will breathe calmly and consistently without wheezing, coughing, or labored breathing. Monitor your dog’s respiratory rate and seek veterinary advice if you notice any irregularities.
Clear Skin

Your dog’s well-being shines through their skin. If you notice scabs, growths, or rashes, consult a vet. Persistent licking could signal a skin condition caused by insect bites, allergies, or reactions to grooming products
Good Posture and Movement

Observe how your puppy moves. If it effortlessly bounds around, there’s nothing to worry about. But if you notice any stiffness, limping, or hesitation, it might be a red flag. These symptoms could indicate musculoskeletal problems or injuries that need immediate attention.
No Nasal Discharge

If you notice excessive nasal discharge or frequent sneezing, your pup might have a respiratory ailment, such as allergies or infections. So, check often that their nose is clean, free of unwanted release, and without any sores. A moist and clear nose is usually a good sign.
Positive Social Interactions

Puppy’s physical health is not the only factor making them healthy pets; mental health is just as important as bodily well-being. Your puppy should be friendly and approachable and display positive social behavior.
Proper Hydration

Good hydration helps maintain their energy levels, supports healthy digestion, and keeps their organs functioning correctly. Some signs of dehydration are lethargy, dry gums, sunken eyes, and reduced skin elasticity.
Regular Sleep Patterns

Naturally, pup owners need to worry if their pup sleeps more than usual and wakes up tired and unmotivated. Also, if they have trouble sleeping, it’s time to find out what could be wrong by scheduling a vet’s visit