Annual wellness exams are a cornerstone of good preventive care — but what about everything that happens between visits? Dogs are remarkably good at hiding discomfort, which means subtle changes in behaviour or appearance are often our only early warning signs that something isn't quite right. Here are five things to watch for.
1. Changes in Appetite or Thirst
A dog who suddenly loses interest in food — or one who can't seem to drink enough water — is sending you a signal worth paying attention to. A skipped meal here and there is usually nothing to worry about, but a consistent drop in appetite, or noticeably increased thirst over a few days, can be early indicators of conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances.
If the change is paired with other symptoms (lethargy, vomiting, weight loss), don't wait it out. Call your vet.
2. Low Energy or Unusual Lethargy
Every dog has off days. But if your normally energetic dog is sleeping significantly more than usual, refusing walks they normally love, or seems reluctant to get up and engage, take note of how long it lasts. Persistent low energy can point to pain, infection, anaemia, or underlying organ issues — none of which will resolve on their own.
A good rule of thumb: if the behaviour change lasts more than 48 hours or is accompanied by any other symptom, book an appointment.
3. Unexplained Weight Changes
Gradual weight gain or loss that isn't linked to a change in diet or exercise is worth investigating. Weight gain can point to hypothyroidism or early joint disease (less movement, more weight). Weight loss is often more concerning — it can indicate dental pain that's making eating uncomfortable, a gastrointestinal issue, or an underlying condition affecting nutrient absorption.
You don't need a scale to notice this — run your hands along your dog's ribcage regularly. You should be able to feel the ribs without pressing hard, but they shouldn't be visibly prominent. Any change from the norm is worth mentioning at your next visit.
4. Bad Breath, Drooling, or Difficulty Chewing
Dental disease is one of the most common — and most underestimated — health issues in dogs. By age three, most dogs have some degree of dental disease. If your dog's breath has gone from mild to genuinely unpleasant, if they're pawing at their mouth, dropping food while eating, or showing reluctance to chew on their usual toys, a dental check is a good idea.
Left untreated, dental disease doesn't just cause pain — the bacteria in an infected mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect heart and kidney health. At Van City Vet, dental cleanings are one of our most common and impactful procedures.
5. Changes in Coat, Skin, or Persistent Scratching
A healthy coat should be relatively shiny and full. Dull fur, dry or flaky skin, bald patches, or constant scratching can all point to allergies, parasites (fleas or mites), nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal changes — and in Vancouver, seasonal environmental allergies are more common than many owners expect.
If your dog is scratching to the point of breaking the skin, or if you notice redness, hotspots, or a yeasty smell around the ears or paws, don't wait. Skin conditions tend to escalate quickly and are much easier to treat early.
When Should You Call?
If you notice any of these signs — or anything else that just feels "off" — trust your instincts. You know your dog better than anyone. A quick call to the clinic can help you decide whether to come in or keep monitoring at home. We'd always rather answer a question early than see a problem that's been allowed to develop.
Our team at Van City Veterinary Hospital is here for the full picture — not just the emergencies. Book a wellness check and let's make sure your dog is as healthy as they look.