The 5-Step Weekly Health Check Every Dog Owner Should Do | Dog weekly health check

Published on: June 4, 2025

You don’t need to wear a vet’s coat to help your dog stay healthy. Performing a simple weekly health check at home allows you to monitor your dog’s well-being, catch early signs of illness, and build a deeper bond with your furry friend. These 10–15 minutes of gentle examination feel more like a relaxing massage to your dog, while giving you peace of mind. Whether you’re a new dog parent or have years of experience, weekly checks can make a real difference. Dog weekly health check up option are given below.

Table of Contents

🔍 1. Teeth – The Window to Overall Health | Dog weekly health check

Your dog’s dental health is a key indicator of their overall condition. Look inside their mouth for:

dog teath checkup — **Dog teath checkup**

Yellow or brown tartar buildup
Inflamed, red, or bleeding gums
Cracked or missing teeth
Unpleasant or foul odor (sign of gum disease)

Regular tooth brushing (2–3 times a week) and dental chews can prevent periodontal disease, which is linked to heart, kidney, and liver problems in dogs.

⚖️ 2. Weight – Keep the Pounds in Check | Dog weekly health check

Feel along your dog’s ribs and spine. You should be able to feel (but not see) the ribs easily. Check:

Sudden weight loss or gain
A lack of defined waist (dog appears round or barrel-shaped)
Fat deposits on the hips or back

Weight changes can indicate health problems like thyroid disease, diabetes, or poor diet. Use consistent feeding schedules and consult your vet if you’re unsure.

👂 3. Ears – The Silent Problem Spot | Dog weekly health check

Dogs’ ears can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria, especially in floppy-eared or allergy-prone breeds. Look for:

Discharge or excessive wax
Redness or swelling
Foul smell
Persistent scratching or head shaking

Wipe the outer ear gently with a damp cotton pad or vet-recommended ear cleaner. Never insert anything deep into the ear canal.

🐕 4. All-Over Body Scan – Detect Changes Early | Dog weekly health check

Use both your eyes and hands to inspect your dog’s body from nose to tail. Feel for:

Lumps, bumps, or warts (especially new or growing ones)
Bruises, swelling, or tenderness
Cuts, scabs, rashes, or parasites like ticks or fleas

This scan helps you spot abnormalities before they become serious. Note any changes and discuss them with your vet during regular checkups.

🧴 5. Coat & Claws – Indicators of Internal Health | Dog weekly health check

Your dog’s coat and nails often reflect what’s going on inside their body. Weekly grooming isn’t just for appearance — it’s preventive care. Watch for:

Dull, greasy, or brittle fur
Bald patches or excessive shedding
Red or flaky skin (may indicate allergies or infections)
Overgrown nails that click on hard floors

Brush your dog’s coat weekly, trim nails monthly, and bathe only when necessary using dog-safe shampoo. Check between the paw pads for debris or irritation.

🏁 Conclusion:

A weekly check doesn’t take much time, but it can drastically improve your dog’s health and quality of life. These moments also deepen trust and make handling your dog at the vet or groomer easier. Think of it as part of your pet care routine — like brushing their coat or feeding them. Your dog will thank you with better health, comfort, and more tail wags!

❓ FAQs: Weekly Dog Health Checks

Q: What is a general health check for a dog?

A full-body inspection that includes checking the teeth, ears, coat, weight, and behavior to spot early signs of illness or discomfort.

Q: What do dogs need weekly?

Dogs benefit from weekly health checks, grooming, nail trimming, dental care, mental stimulation, and adequate exercise.

Q: How do I give my dog a health check?

Use gentle touch to feel for lumps or injuries and observe any changes in appetite, behavior, or appearance. Check ears, teeth, coat, and nails thoroughly.