Aging dogs undergo many physiological changes that affect their behavior and general health. The following information will increase your understanding of this stage in your pet’s life and help you deal with important senior issues.

Much can be done to increase both the length of your pet’s life and the quality of their golden years through proper diet and exercise, frequent and focused veterinary examinations, proper dental hygiene, as well as healthy portions of love and care. There are many problems typical to older age such as obesity and gum infections that can be avoided through preventative measures or counteracted, as in the case of arthritis, through early recognition and treatment.

Every dog owner should know the point at which their dog reaches old age in order to properly address senior concerns. Most people have heard the adage that pets age seven years for every human year. Although it is true that dogs age more rapidly than humans, especially in their early years, there is a great variation between dog breeds in the age at which they reach senior status. Giant breeds such as Great Danes are considered to be seniors at six or seven years of age whereas small breeds like terriers reach old age at about eleven. You veterinarian should be able to provide you with aging information specific to your pet.

Once your pet reaches their golden years it is important that you coordinate with your veterinarian to begin geriatric screening. Blood tests can be performed to check for many conditions such as arthritis, Cushing’s disease, diabetes, and heart disease, all of which occur with greater frequency in older dogs. Your vet will also conduct a thorough physical exam as well as a possible electrocardiogram or other tests specific to your dog’s medical history.

In addition to frequent veterinary checkups, it is imperative that you monitor your pet on a daily basis for changes in their condition or behavior. Certain changes occur naturally as pets age. Older dogs can suffer from decreased mobility due to arthritis or muscle atrophy, diminished hearing, and lowered visual acuity. Certain breeds are also prone to congenital conditions such as hip dysplasia, a static or in some cases degenerative joint deformity causing pain and lameness. Fortunately, there are many products such as supportive harnesses that are designed to assist arthritic pets with their mobility.

It is extremely important for pet owners to understand that many treatable conditions can become very serious and life-threatening when overlooked or dismissed as mere symptoms of old age. Pronounced changes in water or food intake, visual or auditory function, weight, urine output or frequency, and activity levels can all be signs of serious medical conditions and should be brought to your vet’s attention immediately.