Senior Dogs: Proper Care and What to Expect

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Along with the distinguished graying around the muzzle and the slower plodding up and down the stairs, a certain serenity accompanies older dogs. They can be gentle, knowing and wise, content to lie at your feet while reading a book or taking relaxed walks with you through quiet neighborhoods.

When you think about adoption, the benefits of bringing home an older dog are many. They are usually potty trained, may already know some basic commands and their temperament is well established.

As the dog you’ve had since puppyhood is now approaching its golden years, it’s important to continue doing the things you’ve always done together. Exercise is still essential for a healthy, happy pet.

You may not throw the ball as far as you used to, or hike to the top of the mountain, but keeping them physically fit will promote good overall health and maintain weight, which is essential for reducing weight loss. the effects of arthritis.

And don’t forget the importance of grooming, which helps protect the skin and coat and provides an opportunity to check their bodies for tumors – common in older dogs.

Here are a few things you should know about caring for seniors.

What defines senior stage for dogs?

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Just like humans, dogs get stuck in their behavior as they get older. Their ability to cope with change diminishes and they find great security in their familiar routines.

That said, it’s also very likely that your dog will settle into this slower life stage comfortably, and in many ways will just become a softer version of his mature self.

During older age, your dog will:

Possibly sleep more. This is a normal part of the aging process.

Eat less if necessary. Your dog may become more picky, but there is also a chance that his senses of smell and taste have deteriorated to such an extent that eating is no longer fun. Check with your vet to make sure their loss of appetite is not a sign of a more serious health problem.

Be more prone to weight gain. Keep your dog fit and healthy by exercising regularly. Your vet can help you determine the appropriate daily allowance and the pros and cons of a low-calorie senior diet.

May develop dental problems, which can cause serious health problems and make it difficult for your dog to eat. Try brush their teeth at least three times a week, and get a professional cleaning from your vet if necessary.

Being more prone to dehydration, which can be harmful and even fatal. Your senior dog should drink about the same amount of water as usual. If not, make sure their water bowl is in an easily accessible location, and not up or down stairs that are difficult for the elderly or arthritis. Dehydration can lead to — or be a sign of — other health problems, so talk to your vet if you’re concerned.

Become more sensitive to changes in the weather. Pay extra attention that your senior does not overheat in hot weather or get too cold in winter. As their fur thins and circulation weakens, they can become uncomfortably cold much more easily.

Lose some or all of their hearing or sight. As with humans, the senses become dull as the dog’s body ages. Cross-train your dog. That is, learn both verbal and visual cues for basic commands so you can still communicate when one sense diminishes.

Need help getting in and out of the car or going up and down stairs. Stiff, painful joints make older dogs less agile. Slopes or just lend a hand from you.

Things to Keep in Mind in Older Dogs

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Just like humans, the list of potential health problems increases as dogs get older. Regular exercise — both mental and physical — can help prevent many problems, at least for a short time.

In the meantime, offer your dog the same amount of attention and love they are used to getting, if not more. Knowing that they are an important member of the pack is crucial to their sense of well-being.

Also remember:

It is not uncommon for separation anxiety to occur, even in dogs that were independent and easygoing in their youth. As hearing and vision decline, your dog will rely more on you for information about its environment and may panic in your absence.

Proper nutrition is key. Your senior dog will need fewer calories, less fat and more fiber as he ages. Many older dogs can continue to eat the food they always have – just a little less to compensate for not being as active. Talk to your vet about formulating a healthy diet for your senior.

It’s a fact of life: Your senior dog is just more prone to health problems such as arthritis, hypothyroidism, liver and kidney dysfunction, dental problems and cataracts. Older dogs should see the vet twice a year, or whenever they show unusual behavior or signs of pain.

Some common red flags: a change in weight, appetite, or water intake; incontinence or frequent urination; bad breath and difficulty chewing; lumps that change size or shape; and slow, stiff movements.

Aging also affects the brain. Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) is related to Alzheimer’s disease in humans. Dogs with CDS may forget their name or obedience skills. They may also have accidents in the house or not recognize family members, among other symptoms. Talk to your vet if your dog shows any of these symptoms.

Older dogs have less bladder control. Don’t punish your dog for accidents; they can’t help it. That said, falling hormone levels can cause incontinence, so make an appointment with the vet as well, as medication can he
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While the senior phase can and usually lasts for years, you may need to difficult decisions about when it is time to say goodbye. Prepare yourself and your dog by giving them the best you can during their lives and not prolonging the suffering or pain.

Bottom Line

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In general, older dogs are calm, gentle and easygoing. They make a great addition to the family.

Your main concern will likely be medical issues, and a vet visit is also highly recommended if you notice a change in behavior or if your dog seems to be uncomfortable or in pain.

Do you have an older dog at home? How do they differ from younger dogs? Let us know in the comments below!