The rule of thumb is at least once a year for healthy adult dogs, but the exact schedule changes with age and medical needs.
Recommended exam timeline
Puppies (under 1 year): Every 3–4 weeks until all core vaccines are complete (usually 16 weeks), then a final spay/neuter or growth check at 5–6 months.
Adults (1–6 years): Annual wellness exam with vaccine boosters, heartworm test, fecal screen, and dental review.
Seniors (7+ years, or 5+ for giant breeds): Twice-yearly exams plus baseline bloodwork and blood-pressure check to catch early kidney, liver, thyroid, or heart changes.
Chronic conditions: Dogs with diabetes, allergies, arthritis, or heart disease may need re-checks every 3–6 months to adjust medications and monitor lab values.
Why frequency matters
Dogs age roughly 5–7 human years for every calendar year. Regular exams let us detect subtle weight shifts, lumps, dental disease, or lab changes <em>before</em> they turn into costly emergencies.
Not sure when your dog’s next visit is due? Call Griffith Pet Hospital or check your last invoice—we’ll review vaccine dates, email a personalized reminder, and keep your pup on the path to a long, healthy life.