- EYES: A puppies eyes should look clear and shiny. There should be no signs of cloudiness or discharge from the eyes.
- EARS: Do the pup’s ears look and smell clean? The inside of the ear should not look red or inflamed. Any odor or brown discharge could signal an infection.
- NOSE: It should be slightly moist to the touch, but there should not be excessive discharge. The puppy should not be sneezing or sniffling persistently.
- SKIN AND COAT: The puppy’s coat should be soft and shiny, without flakes or excessive shedding. Watch out for patches or missing hair, redness, bumps or sores. The pup should have a pleasant smell. Check for parasites, such as fleas or ticks.
- REAR END: It should be free from debris and fecal matter.
- ABDOMEN: You should be able to feel the puppy’s ribs, but the ribs shouldn’t poke out. The tummy can be round, but not swollen or potbellied.
- KENNEL AND BEDDING AREA: This should be a relatively tidy area. Watch out for signs of diarrhea or vomiting.
- BEHAVIOR: A healthy puppy may be sleepy, but not lethargic. A healthy puppy will be playful at times, not isolated in a corner. You should see occasional bursts of energy and interaction with littermates. When it’s mealtime, a healthy puppy will take an interest in its chow.
(Source)