Typical Health Problems in Elderly Dogs to Look Out for

Elderly dogs can enjoy long, fulfilling lives. However, we will undoubtedly notice specific health changes as our canine friend ages. Owners typically notice a general “slowing down,” less physical stamina while exercising, less agility and mobility, and even personality changes. Dogs are often regarded as seniors around the age of seven. This will depend on various factors, including your pet’s breed and size. Compared to smaller breeds, larger breeds age more quickly. To effectively care for your senior dog, familiarize yourself today with age-related ailments and issues.

Most Common Ailments in Senior Dogs

Be aware of any changes in mood or behavior as your pet dog ages. Even the most committed and watchful owner may miss warning indications by believing that changes in the dog’s sleeping or feeding patterns are normal. If you have any uneasiness, speaking with your veterinarian is always wise. Here are five common health problems in senior dogs:

Growths and Tumors

Senior dogs might develop various lumps and bumps. A vet should examine these to rule out malignancy. Fortunately, many growths are benign tumors, moles, or warts. Watch for weight changes, wounds that heal slowly, diarrhea, or constipation. Unless they trouble the dog, they won’t need to be medically removed.

Loss of Vision and Hearing

Older dogs may become blind or deaf due to tissue degeneration in their ears and eyes. Your pet dog may have an eye issue if they start running into things, falling, or if its eyes start to become red and cloudy. Behavior changes, anxiousness, or disobedience are manifestations that your pet might be losing his hearing.

Although most sight and hearing impairments are irreversible, there are several things you may do to improve your pet’s quality of life. Avoid moving furniture around or putting up barriers in your house, and schedule your pet a checkup with a veterinary eye specialist. When your pet’s hearing wears away, instructing them through hand gestures can still help you communicate.

Cognitive Dysfunction

Disorientation, bewilderment, pacing or roaming, standing in corners as if confused, walking to the wrong side of a door opening, and other behaviors are some of the symptoms of dementia in dogs. At first, the symptoms are mild, but they can quickly aggravate, leading to poor quality of life. Dementia and other forms of cognitive impairment have no known cure, but certain drugs and nutrients might be able to help.

Kidney Disease

It is typical for elderly dogs to acquire renal disease since aging can be tough on the kidneys. Several methods exist to treat this illness, but no known cure exists. On urinalysis and blood tests, early kidney abnormalities may be seen. More can be done to prevent kidney illness from advancing the earlier it is discovered. Chronic kidney (renal) disease often develops over time, starting with kidney insufficiency and ending with complete renal failure.

Joint Problems

In dogs, osteoarthritis is one of the most typical causes of joint discomfort. Although arthritis is irreversible, appropriate care and diet can lessen discomfort and slow the illness’s course. Anxiety, difficulty standing or walking, a limp, pain when picked up, licking or gnawing at the sore joint, and impatience are among the symptoms that might be present. Consult your vet about the best action to treat your pet with joint discomfort and other geriatric care.

What to do if you see any irregularities in your dog?

Whether you see any abnormalities or changes in their body or behavior, call your vet to find out if there is anything you can do to help your pet at home before you bring them in. Using your phone to record a video of your pet’s behavior or organize a video conference with your veterinarian may be helpful. Once at the emergency pet hospital, the veterinary staff will complete a physical examination and undertake tests to determine the origin of your pet’s health problem.

Conclusion

Growing older is challenging for both you and your senior dog. Routine wellness exams every six months to check for these frequent health concerns are one of the finest things you can do for your senior dog. Additionally, keeping an eye on them at home and informing your veterinarian of any unusual behaviors can help identify these ailments early, raising the likelihood that your dog will live a long and healthy life.