1. Temperature Taking. High temperatures generally indicate infection although it can also occur with some cancers and reactions to drugs
2. Examine the head making note of the state of dental disease. Eyes are checked looking for any eyelid disease, cataracts, inflammation. Ears are checked for infection (smell and wax can be a good indicator of problems). The lymph nodes and tonsils are checked for enlargement.
3. Chest is auscultaed with a stethoscope to check heart and lung sounds. Heart murmurs can be early indicators that heart problems could develop later and should be investigated if detected.
4. Abdomen is palpated looking for pain or unusual enlargement of the various organs. This can be easy or difficult depending on the shape, size and conformation of the patient.
5. Hair coat is examined looking for fleas, excess scurf, scale, inflammation and abnormal lumps
6. Muscles and reflexes may be checked along with joints if there are suspicions of problems

Results of the exam may result in other procedures being recommended such as blood tests, x-rays, ultrasound, needle biopsies, ECG and blood pressure monitoring.