People across the U.S. are buying a new puppy for the first time every single day. Unfortunately for those who are paying for one of these puppies, not all of them are completely healthy. We hope the list below will help you in determining whether or not the little puppy you are looking at is in good health.
We are simply providing this information as a starting point when you are actively searching for a new and healthy puppy. Spend a few moments with the puppy and look for the signs below.
1. EYES:
A puppies eyes should look clear and shiny. There should be no signs of cloudiness from the eyes. Healthy puppies have clear, bright eyes that are free from discharge.
2. EARS:
Do the pup’s ears look and smell clean? The inside of the ear should not look red or inflamed. Any odor or brown discharge could signal an infection.
3. NOSE:
The puppy should be slightly moist to the touch, but there should not be excessive discharge. The puppy should not be sneezing or sniffling persistently.
4. SKIN AND COAT:
The puppy’s coat should be soft and shiny, without flakes or excessive shedding. Watch out for patches or missing hair, redness, bumps or sores. The pup should have a pleasant smell. Check for parasites, such as fleas or ticks.
5. REAR END:
The puppy should be free from debris and fecal matter.
6. ABDOMEN:
You should be able to feel the puppy’s ribs, but the ribs shouldn’t poke out. The tummy can be round, but not swollen or potbellied.
7. KENNEL AND BEDDING AREA:
This should be a relatively tidy area. Watch out for signs of diarrhea or vomiting.
8. BEHAVIOR:
A healthy puppy may be sleepy, but not lethargic. A healthy puppy will be playful at times, not isolated in a corner. You should see occasional bursts of energy and interaction with littermates. When it’s mealtime, a healthy puppy will take an interest in its food.
This is just a short list of things to watch out for when you are searching for your new puppy. You should always have your new pet checked out (as soon as possible) by a veterinarian and proceed as per their recommendations.
One more thing, all reputable breeders should offer to take back a pet that is deemed unhealthy by a veterinarian.
