A Healthy Dog

A healthy dog is alert, lively and interested in what is going on around him. His eyes and nose are clean, with no discharge. In normal conditions his nose should be moist and shiny, and his ears should be clean and wax-free. The coat will be shiny and free of patches and dandruff, and there will be no sores or spots on the skin beneath.

The dog's body will be firm and well-muscled. He will not be overweight, and he will not be so thin that his ribs stick out.

His teeth will be white and smooth (not yellow). His breath will smell "doggy" but not unpleasant! He will not have missing teeth, and his gums will not be inflamed or bleeding. The dog's claws will be level with the pad of his foot. 

The dog will not be scratching and irritating constantly! He will be keen to eat and enjoy his food when fed on a regular, appropriate schedule. He will be keen to go outside for a walk, and will move without favouring any leg. He will greet his owners with much pleasure, and will not cower when approached.