The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health: Key Tips and Vet Advice for Every Stage of Life

Caring for your dog’s health is a lifelong journey that evolves as they grow from playful puppies to loyal seniors. Each stage of a dog’s life brings unique needs, whether it’s the vaccinations and training of puppyhood, the active lifestyle of adulthood, or the extra comfort and support needed in their golden years. In this guide, you’ll find essential vet-recommended tips to help keep your dog happy, healthy, and thriving at every age. Let’s explore what it takes to support your dog’s wellbeing through every phase of their life.

Caring for a puppy requires proactive attention to ensure they develop into a healthy adult dog. From vaccinations and deworming to teething and proper nutrition, each part of your puppy’s early care is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of essential tasks, considerations, and helpful tips for keeping your puppy happy, healthy, and strong during their first few years of life

Essential Tasks and Considerations

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are vital for protecting your puppy from serious diseases. Core vaccines include distemper, parvovirus, and canine hepatitis, while non-core vaccines like Bordetella (kennel cough) and parainfluenza may be recommended based on your puppy’s lifestyle. Leptospirosis is also occasionally included for dogs at specific risk.

Puppies typically start vaccinations around 6–8 weeks of age, with a series completed by 16–18 weeks. Rabies vaccination is required for dogs traveling internationally. Safe socialisation should only begin after the 10–12 week vaccination to minimise infection risks.

Deworming & Parasite Prevention

Puppies are especially vulnerable to internal and external parasites. Deworming not only removes common intestinal worms, such as roundworms hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms, but also helps prevent issues related to poor growth and nutritional deficiencies. Discuss parasite prevention options with your vet, including products that target fleas, ticks, and heartworm, all of which can affect your puppy’s health. Also follow your vets advice on deworming, as most puppies must be dewormed every two weeks until about 12 weeks of age, then monthly until they reach six months.

For tips on getting started with brushing your dogs teeth, check out our vet-written article: Smart Dental Care: How Proactive Steps Can Save You Money & Protect Your Dog's Health

Spaying/Neutering

Spaying or neutering not only prevents unwanted litters but also offers several health benefits. Neutering can reduce the risk of certain cancers and behaviour issues, while spaying can lower the risk of uterine infections and certain cancers in females. Spaying or neutering typically occurs around 6–9 months of age, though specific timing may vary based on breed and size.

Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right age for your puppy, as some breeds may benefit from waiting until they reach a particular developmental milestone. Vet recommendations often suggest leaving it as long as possible for many breeds to ensure optimal health and development.

Regular Vet Visits

Routine veterinary visits allow your vet to monitor your puppy’s growth and catch any early signs of health issues. These visits are essential during the first year to ensure your puppy is developing normally and is protected against preventable illnesses. Typically, puppies see the vet every 3–4 weeks until they are about 16 weeks old, with regular checkups continuing afterward.

Proper Nutrition

Puppies require a nutrient-dense diet to fuel their rapid growth. Choose a high-quality puppy food tailored to your dog’s size and breed to ensure they receive all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and calories. Look for food specifically labeled for puppies, as adult formulas may not meet their dietary needs. Feed your puppy 3–4 small meals throughout the day to prevent hypoglycaemia and support their active metabolism.

Exercise and Weight Management

Puppies are naturally energetic, but their exercise should be low-impact and controlled until their skeletal development is complete. Gentle play, short walks, and puppy training sessions are ideal ways to keep your puppy active without putting too much strain on their growing body. Low-impact activities are especially important for protecting the bone and joint health of larger breeds. Regular weigh-ins at vet visits are also helpful to ensure your puppy is growing healthily and to prevent obesity.

Hydration

Hydration is especially important for puppies, as they can become dehydrated quickly, particularly after play or exercise. Always have fresh water available, and check frequently to ensure your puppy is drinking enough, especially after playtime or on hot days. Monitor your puppy’s water intake and consult your vet if they seem excessively thirsty or uninterested in drinking, as this can indicate health issues.

When your dog reaches adulthood, their care shifts from growth-focused needs to maintaining overall health and preventing age-related problems. Adult dogs are generally considered to be between one and seven years old, although this can vary based on breed size. Taking a proactive approach to their health during these years helps prevent long-term issues and keeps your dog thriving.

Vaccination and Preventative Care

Regular vaccinations and parasite prevention remain vital throughout your dog’s adult years. By staying current with vaccinations, you protect your dog against serious diseases and help prevent the spread of illnesses within your community. Some vaccinations require annual or multi-year booster shots to maintain immunity. Common vaccines include distemper, and parvovirus, with the rabies vaccine only needed if your dog is travelling overseas.

Regular flea, tick, and heartworm prevention keeps your dog safe from parasites that can cause serious health issues. Discuss with your vet which products best suit your dog’s lifestyle and local parasite risks.

Joint Health

Joint health is especially important as adult dogs stay active, particularly in breeds prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia or arthritis. Maintaining strong, healthy joints now can delay or reduce discomfort later in life. Regular, moderate exercise helps support joint health without putting too much strain on your dog’s joints. Avoid excessive high-impact activities like jumping or very long runs.

Introducing joint supplements into your dog's diet can be beneficial to their joint health and prevent joint issues later down the track. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids may help keep joints healthy and can often be introduced as early as two to three years old, especially in larger breeds. 

Age-Related Diseases

While your dog is young and healthy, it’s common for certain health issues to arise in adulthood. With regular vet check-ups, many of these conditions can be managed effectively. Many dogs develop allergies after 6 months of age, but it isn't uncommon for a dog to start getting allergies in adulthood. Symptoms of allergies include skin irritations, itchiness, or gastrointestinal issues. Work with your vet to identify triggers and explore treatment options.

Dogs with floppy ears or those that spend a lot of time outdoors may be prone to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning can help prevent infections, while prompt veterinary care can manage symptoms. For more ear health tips, check out our vet-written guide: From Itchy Ears to Infections: The Vet’s Guide to Pet Ear Health

Some adult dogs may also experience intermittent GI issues, from food intolerances to sensitivities. Dietary adjustments, such as hypoallergenic foods or limited-ingredient diets, may help manage these problems. 

Dental Health

Maintaining good dental hygiene is essential for your dog’s health. Dental disease is common in adult dogs and can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even systemic issues if bacteria enter the bloodstream. Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least a few times a week, if not daily, using a dog-safe toothbrush and toothpaste.

Dental-friendly chews and toys can help reduce plaque and keep your dog’s teeth clean between brushings. Some dental diets also support oral health.

Weight Management

Weight management is crucial for preventing health issues such as diabetes, joint strain, and heart disease. Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their diet as needed to maintain a healthy body condition. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation not only help manage weight but also reduce stress and boredom.

Make sure to follow feeding guidelines on your dog’s food packaging as a form of portion control, but adjust based on their activity level and weight. Avoid too many treats or table scraps, which can lead to unwanted weight gain.

Balanced Nutrition

A well-balanced diet is key to supporting your dog’s overall health. Look for high-quality dog food that meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs based on their age, breed, and health conditions. Choose a food that lists real meat as the primary ingredient and includes essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support immune health.

If your dog has specific health needs, such as a sensitive stomach or food allergies, consult with your vet to find an appropriate diet.

Grooming and Skin Care

Regular grooming and skin care keep your dog’s coat healthy, help identify any skin issues early, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Use a soft slicker brush to brush your dog’s coat according to their coat type, whether daily or weekly. Brushing removes dead hair, prevents matting, and distributes natural oils. 

Bathing should also be done as needed, typically every 1–2 months, with a dog-safe shampoo. Check for skin issues like redness, dryness, or hot spots, and speak to your vet if you notice any concerns. For more skin care tips, check out our vet-written guide: Scratch the Itch: Understanding and Treating Skin Conditions in Dogs

As your dog enters their senior years—usually around age seven for most breeds or age five for large and giant breeds—they begin to experience natural aging changes that affect their health, comfort, and daily life. Adjusting their care to address joint health, cognitive function, and other age-related concerns can help keep them comfortable and improve their quality of life. Here’s a guide to managing the health and wellness of your senior dog.

Joint and Mobility Loss

Arthritis, joint stiffness, and general mobility loss are common in older dogs. These issues may cause discomfort, reduce activity levels, and impact their ability to move around. Consider adding joint supplements like 4CYTE and Rose Hip Vital to your dog’s diet, as these supplements can help maintain joint cartilage and reduce inflammation. Ramps, non-slip mats, and orthopaedic beds can make it easier for senior dogs to move around and get comfortable, especially on hardwood or tile floors.

Learn more about how to support a senior dog with mobility issues in our vet-written article: Old Dog, New Tricks: Understanding and Managing Mobility Issues in Senior Dogs

Cognitive Decline

Senior dogs can experience cognitive dysfunction, which may manifest as confusion, disorientation, or changes in behaviour. This is often similar to dementia in humans and is known as Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). Continue to engage your dog with gentle training exercises, food puzzles, and familiar activities. Short, easy games and positive social interaction can help keep their minds sharp. Maintaining a stable routine with regular feeding, exercise, and sleep times can also help reduce confusion and anxiety, which are common with cognitive decline.

Hearing and Vision Loss

As dogs age, gradual loss of hearing and vision is not uncommon. Senior dogs may have difficulty hearing commands, seeing in low light, or recognising people from a distance. Use hand signals or vibration training if your dog’s hearing is declining. For vision loss, avoid rearranging furniture and keep pathways clear to help them navigate safely.

Age-Related Diseases

Older dogs are at higher risk for conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, and cancer. Regular vet check-ups can catch these issues early, allowing for better management and a higher quality of life. Look for signs like increased thirst, changes in appetite, weight loss, or lumps and bumps. Report any changes to your vet as they could indicate age-related diseases.

Frequent Vet Check-Ups

Senior dogs benefit from more frequent veterinary visits to monitor their health and detect any emerging conditions. Most veterinarians recommend biannual exams for senior dogs. If your senior dog has existing health conditions, frequent visits allow your vet to adjust medications and treatments as necessary.

Hydration

Proper hydration is essential for senior dogs, especially those with kidney disease or other chronic health issues. Older dogs may not drink as much water on their own, so monitoring and encouraging hydration is important. Ensure water is easily accessible, especially if your dog has mobility issues. Consider placing water bowls in multiple areas around the house to ensure they are optimally hydrated.

If you notice that your dog is drinking significantly more water than usual, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue, so it’s important to report this to your vet promptly.

Adjusting Exercise Routines

While senior dogs may not be as energetic as they once were, regular, gentle exercise is essential to maintain muscle tone, joint flexibility, and mental engagement. Short walks, swimming (if they enjoy it), and gentle play sessions are excellent options for keeping your dog active without putting stress on their joints. Adjustment to the pace and length of walks to suit your dog’s abilities is required, as frequent, shorter walks may be easier than long, strenuous outings.

Provide Comfort and Support

As dogs age, they may need extra comfort and assistance with daily activities. Simple changes to their environment and routine can make a big difference in their quality of life. Investing in a supportive bed, such as an orthopaedic bed, that cushions their joints and reduces pressure points is a fantastic way to aid arthritis or joint issues. Ramps are another great tool to help your dog access cars, beds, or even go up stairs. 

Supporting your dog’s health through each life stage—from energetic puppyhood to the golden senior years—ensures they enjoy a life of happiness and comfort. By adapting care to their changing needs, providing regular vet visits, balanced nutrition, and age-appropriate exercise, you help them thrive. As they age, paying attention to any discomfort and consulting your veterinarian can prevent and manage age-related challenges. With consistent, thoughtful care, you’re giving your dog the best chance to enjoy a long, healthy, and joyful life by your side.

This article was written by Dr Jane Miller