At what age is a dog considered a senior? How can we spot signs of aging in our pooches? In this post, we discuss these topics along with what special care requirements an aging dog may have.
How old is a senior dog?
You may have heard that one human year is similar to seven dog years. However, it's not quite that simple. This is because some individual dog breeds age at faster paces than others.
Generally, smaller dogs do not age as quickly as large breed dogs. Here is a general guide:
Small breeds are believed to be senior dogs around 10-12 years old.
Medium breeds are thought to be senior dogs around 8-9 years old.
Large and giant breeds are considered senior dogs around 6-7 years old.
Signs That Your Dog is Getting Old
You'll probably notice both mental and physical changes in your dog as they age. While some of these changes can be attributed to the natural progression of aging (such as the hair around their muzzle becoming grey) and will not require any specific veterinary care, other changes may need a veterinarian's attention to ensure your pooch remains healthy and comfortable as they age.
Some signs that your dog is getting older include:
- Sleeping more or difficulty sleeping
- Weight loss or gain
- Vision and/or hearing loss
- Reduction of mental acuity
- Loss of muscle tone
- Reduced kidney, liver and heart function
- Arthritis and joint issues
- Gum disease or tooth loss
- White hairs on the face and muzzle
Care Requirements for Senior Dogs
There are several things you can do to help your dog maintain their comfort and well-being as they age.
Veterinary Care
The first step to caring for a senior pup is to prioritize regular visits with your veterinarian. By taking your senior dog for routine wellness exams, you're allowing your vet to screen for any emerging geriatric conditions and begin treatment as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will also assess your senior dog's nutrition and mobility and make recommendations for diet or exercise adjustments that may benefit your dog.
Nutrition
As your dog ages, their nutrition needs will likely change. As senior dogs slow down and exercise less, they become more prone to weight gain. Excess weight gain can cause other health issues, including joint pain and cardiovascular conditions. Speak to your vet about adjusting your dog's daily calorie intake or switching to a food that is specifically formulated for weight loss.
There is also a range of prescription diets and supplements available for senior dogs that are targeted to the various health conditions that senior dogs experience. Speak with your veterinarian to see if they recommend a specific diet or supplement for your pup.
Besides the physical benefits of a good diet, proper nutrition may be able to help your dog maintain their cognitive function as they age. Dogs, just like humans, can suffer from dementia or Alzheimers-like conditions. Feeding your dog that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, along with providing them with proper exercise, may help them maintain mental alertness.
Exercise - Physical & Mental
As your dog ages, it is important that they keep up with a regular schedule of physical activity. Regular exercise helps dogs maintain a healthy weight and keeps their joints healthy. However, you may have to adjust the forms of exercise you are providing for your pup. For example, if you notice your dog is having difficulty with the long walks they once loved, try taking your dog for more frequent walks that are shorter in duration.
Along with regular physical exercise, it is important that senior dogs receive mental stimulation too. It's never too late to teach your pup a new trick or bring home a new puzzle. There are lots of options for problem-solving activities for dogs. One example is a puzzle feeder that makes your dog work to figure out how to get their kibble.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding people or pets. Always consult with a vet before making medical decisions for your pet.