Dog Health Basics: A Preventive Care Checklist

Most of a dog's health care is prevention: a check-up at least once a year, the vaccinations and parasite prevention your vet recommends for where you live, a decision about neutering, daily tooth brushing, a lean body, regular grooming checks and good insurance or savings. Learn the signs that mean call the vet, and you'll catch most problems early.

A happy, healthy adult dog sitting calmly beside its owner's knee in a bright vet clinic waiting room — Prevention: the cheapest, kindest care there is.

A yearly rhythm for most adult dogs.

Preventive care at a glance
Daily	Teeth brushing, a look-over, fresh water, exercise
Weekly	Brush the coat, check ears, eyes, paws and skin
Monthly	Body condition check; parasite prevention as your vet advises
Yearly	Vet check-up and any boosters due; more often for seniors

Vaccines, worming, flea and tick treatments and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. What your dog needs depends on its age, health, lifestyle and where you live.

The Yearly Check-Up

A yearly visit lets your vet examine your dog from nose to tail, check weight, teeth, heart and joints, update vaccinations and parasite prevention, and spot problems early. Many vets suggest more frequent checks for older dogs. Bring a list of questions and anything you've noticed. Ask your vet to scan the microchip while you're there.

Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention

Core vaccines protect every dog against serious infectious diseases; others depend on where you live and how your dog lives. Parasite prevention covers fleas, ticks, worms and, in some regions, heartworm. Your vet will build a plan for your dog. See dog vaccinations and flea and tick prevention.

Neutering

Neutering prevents unwanted litters and can affect some health risks and behaviors. The best timing depends on your dog's size, breed and sex. See neutering your dog.

Teeth, Weight and Grooming Checks

Teeth: brush daily with dog toothpaste if you can. See dental chews vs brushing.
Weight: check body condition monthly and keep your dog lean. See dog weight and body condition.
Grooming checks: brushing time is health-check time: skin, lumps, ears, eyes, nails and paws. See skin and coat care.

Planning for Vet Costs

Unexpected vet bills are one of the biggest worries for owners. Pet insurance, a savings fund or both can help; compare what policies exclude, especially for breeds with known health risks. See pet insurance vs savings fund.

When to Call the Vet

Call promptly if your dog stops eating or drinking, vomits repeatedly, has diarrhea for more than a day, seems in pain, is limping, has a swollen belly, is breathing with difficulty, collapses, or has eaten something toxic. If in doubt, call; your vet would rather hear from you early. See when to call the vet.

The Home Health Kit

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A toothbrush and dog toothpaste, kitchen scales for meals, a tick tool and a first-aid kit cover most home care. See dog health supplies for more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prevention questions, answered briefly.

How often should my dog see the vet?

At least once a year for a healthy adult, more often for puppies and older dogs, and whenever something worries you.

What vaccines does my dog need?

Core vaccines for every dog, plus others depending on where you live and your dog's lifestyle. Your vet will advise.

Is pet insurance worth it?

It depends on your budget, your dog and the policy. Compare exclusions carefully, or set aside a savings fund. Many owners do both.

What should I check at home?

Teeth, weight, skin and coat, ears, eyes, nails and paws, plus any change in eating, drinking, toileting, energy or behavior.