8 Signs of a Healthy Pup:
- Eyes: They should be clear and shiny. There shouldn't be any cloudiness or discharge.
- Ears: They should look and smell clean. Any odor or brown discharge could signal an infection.
- Nose: It should be slightly moist to touch, but there should not be excessive discharge. The puppy should not be sneezing or sniffling persistently.
- Skin and coat: The puppy's coat should be soft and shinny, without flakes or excessive shedding. Watch out for patches of missing hair, redness, bumps or sores. The pup should have a pleasant smell. Check for parasites, such as fleas or ticks.
- Rear end: It should be free of debris and fecal matter.
- Abdomen: You should be able to feel its ribs, but they shouldn't poke out. The tummy can be round, but not swollen or potbellied.
- Kennel and bedding areas: This should be a relatively tidy area. Watch out for diarrhea or vomiting.
- Behavior: A healthier 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 chow.
