Regular checkups will give your vet the opportunity to detect any potential health problems in their earliest stages, when treatment can be most effective.

A blood test is also a common part of these assessments, to help spot things that aren’t easy to pick up during a physical exam.

These checks also allow your vet to assess the overall health of your dog and to make sure they are up to date with vaccinations, heartworm treatment and any other preventative treatments you need.

Age

There is no one answer to this question, but generally puppies should have their first wellness check at around 16 weeks old, then regular visits from then on. During these visits they will get their first vaccinations and boosters.

For adult dogs, their veterinary needs change as they age and they will need annual wellness exams. At these visits, they will be checked over from nose to tail and have blood work done.

Some vets also recommend additional tests. These tests can help your vet detect early warning signs of illness and problems before they develop into something more serious.

Dr Klein suggests bringing toy breeds to the vet twice a year when they are seven years of age, while giant breeds should be seen biannually. They will have a physical examination, as well as blood tests for things such as high blood pressure and heart disease.

Weight

Your dog may have been at their ideal weight for years, but it’s still a good idea to visit the vet every now and then. That’s because weight changes can indicate a host of health problems, from underlying conditions to chronic diseases.

Your vet can use a veterinary body scoring system, called the BCS, to measure your dog’s weight and body condition. This nine-point scale can tell if your pup is too thin, too fat, or just right.

This type of assessment can be done in the comfort of your home, although it’s important to remember that it doesn’t substitute for regular veterinary care. Ultimately, your pet’s health depends on a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.

Activity

A dog’s activity level is important to their overall health and it varies depending on their age, breed, weight and health condition. A dog that isn’t getting enough exercise may become bored, grumpy or mischievous, while one that is overexerted can become ill and weak.

A healthy adult dog should be able to get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. This amount of activity is especially important for larger and more durable breeds, like terriers.

Regular health checks are also recommended for dogs as vets can often find diseases or other conditions before they become serious. This can save you money and heartache in the long run.

Breed

Generally speaking, all dogs should have an annual health check-up. During this appointment your vet will examine your dog from nose to tail, including checking their eyes, ears and teeth, as well as listening to their heart and lungs.

Your vet may also check their weight, perform blood tests and do other routine diagnostics. They will then discuss any problems with your dog and recommend treatments to help them maintain their good health.

As with humans, the frequency of your pet’s regular wellness examinations depends on their age, lifestyle and current health condition. Puppies and kittens should have monthly wellness exams, while adults, seniors and those with underlying health conditions benefit from bi-annual visits to the vet.

It’s a good idea to schedule your dog for an annual health check, as this gives the vet the opportunity to detect subtle changes in your dog’s overall physical condition, before they become serious. These annual checkups can also be the perfect time to discuss any concerns about your dog’s behavior or overall health and give you the peace of mind that they are in good health.