What role do lymph nodes play during a canine physical exam?

Lymph nodes play a critical role in the immune system by responding to infectious processes within the body. During a canine physical exam, veterinarians palpate the lymph nodes to assess their size, consistency, and warmth. Enlarged or painful lymph nodes may indicate an underlying infection, inflammation, or even malignancy. Thus, their examination can provide crucial insights into the dog’s health status and help in diagnosing various conditions. This makes the understanding of lymph node function essential for veterinarians and veterinary technicians during physical assessments.

While blood circulation is vital for overall health, the primary function of lymph nodes does not involve aiding in circulation directly. Measuring a dog’s weight is typically done through a scale rather than through lymph node assessment, and determining a dog’s age usually relies on dental examination or other physical developmental indicators, not lymph node evaluation.