One thing I’ve learned over the years with Max — my loving, energetic Labrador — is that large dogs tend to age faster than we expect.
He’s always been that kind of dog who feels like he’ll be around forever, full of life, wagging his tail, chasing birds, and greeting everyone with excitement.
But when he turned 5, I started to notice a few small changes.
Nothing too alarming: he was sleeping a bit more, not as eager to play, and he began eating more slowly.
At first, I thought it was just a phase. But since I’ve always taken his health seriously, I booked a vet appointment and asked if it was time to run some deeper tests.
That’s when I learned that starting around age 5, large breeds should have more thorough routine check-ups.
Exams the Vet Recommended for Max
Since then, these exams have become a part of our yearly routine. It’s not over-the-top — it’s just good care.
Max is still healthy and active, but these check-ups are the reason we catch things early and keep him feeling his best.
Let me share the exams we now do with him each year:
1. Complete Blood Tests
A full blood panel and biochemistry profile help assess liver, kidney, and pancreas function, as well as check for anemia, infections, and hormonal imbalances.
In Max’s case, we caught some early signs of kidney strain — nothing too serious, but it led us to adjust his diet and start him on omega-3 supplements.
If we hadn’t done the bloodwork, we wouldn’t have known until things got worse.
2. Urinalysis
This is a simple but powerful test. It can detect infections, crystals, and early-stage kidney problems — sometimes before anything shows up in blood tests.
Max had a few accidents in the house (which was very unlike him), and this test revealed a mild urinary tract infection.
A round of antibiotics cleared it up, but without the test, we might have missed it.
3. Abdominal Ultrasound
This non-invasive exam gives a visual on internal organs like the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and more. It’s especially important as dogs get older.
Max was super calm during the ultrasound, and thankfully, everything looked normal.
But the peace of mind alone made it 100% worth it. Now we plan to do one every year.
4. Orthopedic Evaluation & X-rays
Big dogs like Labradors are prone to joint issues, especially hip dysplasia and arthritis.
Max had started getting a little stiff in his back legs, especially after naps.
We took some x-rays, and while there was no major issue, we began preventive joint care with supplements.
Now? He jumps back on the couch like a puppy again. (I pretend not to see, of course.)
5. Heart Check-up
After 5 years old, a dog’s heart deserves extra attention. The vet suggested we do an ECG and a detailed cardiac auscultation.
So far, Max’s heart is strong and steady, but keeping tabs on it is important as the years go by. If he starts showing signs of fatigue or coughing, we’ll be ahead of the game.
My Advice if You Have a Big Dog at Home
If I could give you one honest piece of advice, it would be this: don’t wait for your dog to show signs something’s wrong.
Dogs are great at hiding pain and discomfort. By the time it’s obvious, it might be serious.
Starting this yearly check-up routine with Max was one of the best choices I’ve made as a dog parent.
He’s healthier, more comfortable, and I have peace of mind knowing I’m doing my part.
His check-up has become like a birthday tradition — and yes, I even bring him a little treat afterward for being such a good boy.
So if your big pup is over 5 years old, schedule that check-up. Ask your vet about the right exams.
Caring for their health is one of the many ways we say thank you for all the love and joy they give us every day.
And if you’re like me and call your dog your child… then you already know: it’s more than worth it. 🐶💛