A dog wellness exam is a routine checkup when your dog is healthy. It is the vet’s chance to find problems early, keep vaccines and parasite control up to date, and talk about weight, diet, dental care and behaviour. Healthy adult dogs need one at least once a year, and seniors every six months.
This guide is part of our pet health checkup guide.
The nose-to-tail exam: what your vet checks
| Area | What the vet looks for |
|---|---|
| Weight and body condition score | Weight gain or loss; body condition on a standard scale |
| Eyes | Discharge, redness, cloudiness, cataracts |
| Ears | Infection, mites, wax, odour, inflammation |
| Mouth and teeth | Tartar, gum disease, broken teeth, bad breath, oral masses |
| Heart | Murmurs, abnormal rhythm, heart rate |
| Lungs | Abnormal breath sounds, cough |
| Abdomen | Pain, enlarged organs, masses |
| Lymph nodes | Enlargement |
| Skin and coat | Fleas, ticks, lumps, hair loss, allergies |
| Joints, muscles and gait | Stiffness, pain, muscle loss |
| Rear end and genitals | Anal glands, discharge, hernias, testicles in unneutered males |
Recommended tests by age
| Test | Purpose | Typically recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Fecal test | Intestinal parasites | At least annually; more often for puppies |
| Heartworm test | Heartworm infection | Annually in regions where heartworm occurs |
| Tick-borne disease screening | Diseases such as ehrlichiosis or Lyme disease | Where ticks are common, as your vet advises |
| Blood tests (CBC, biochemistry) | Organ function, anaemia, infection | Baseline in adults; annually in seniors |
| Urinalysis | Kidney function, infection, diabetes | Often with senior blood tests |
| Blood pressure | Hypertension | Seniors and dogs with kidney or heart disease |
Vaccines and parasite prevention
The vet reviews which vaccines are due based on your dog’s age, lifestyle and local requirements, and recommends flea, tick and worm prevention suited to your area. See our dog vaccination schedule and Bordetella vaccine guide.
Topics worth raising
- Diet, treats and portion size
- Exercise and any reduced stamina
- Changes in thirst, urination, appetite or stool
- Coughing, sneezing or snoring changes
- Behaviour changes, anxiety or aggression
- New lumps
- Dental care at home
How to prepare
- Bring a fresh stool sample.
- Write down food brand and amounts, supplements and medicines.
- Note any changes since the last visit, with dates.
- Bring vaccine records if you are new to the clinic.
- Bring treats and use a secure lead or harness.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a dog wellness exam take?
Most take 20 to 40 minutes, longer if tests or vaccines are included.
How much does a dog wellness exam cost?
Costs depend on location and which tests and vaccines are included. See vet checkup costs.
Related guides
- Senior dog wellness exam
- How often should dogs go to the vet?
- Dog dental care guide
- Pet health checkup guide
This guide is general information for pet owners and is not a substitute for an examination by a licensed veterinarian. If your pet is unwell, contact your vet.
Run a veterinary clinic?
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