Caring for Your Aging Dog

In the same manner we age, so do our dogs except maybe 3 or 4 times as fast. For many breeds of dogs, middle age can begin around 3-4 years of age and by 10 years of age most dogs are considered senior citizens. Aging is a natural part of all life cycles, be it long or short. Just like in human beings aging can speed up if your dog is overweight, has poor nutrition, or does not get enough exercise. Many of the problems associated with aging can be prevented or reduced by following a proper care routine. Many breeds of dogs live to be 10 years or older with the right care. Here are some tips that will help you care for your aging dog so that their life can be healthy, happy, and long.

Although dogs age much more rapidly than humans many of the processes of aging are the same. Their fur will turn gray, eyesight and sense of smell may diminish, arthritis may set it, and reflexes will dull overtime. Aging dogs also have less energy and may loose interest in playing. By the time your dog is 3-5 years old they will be middle-aged and their needs will change, and continue to change into the future. Because dogs age so fast it is important to visit the veterinarian often. Most breeds, over the age of 5 should see a vet 2-3 times yearly to ensure they remain healthy. A yearly visit is just not enough for an aging dog because over several months they may age very quickly. The more you visit the vet for standard checkups and testing, the better your chances of catching disease and illness early.

When visiting the vet, your aging dog should be examined from nose to tail. The heart, lungs, eyes, ears, throat, and joints should all be checked out to make sure your dog is healthy. At least once a year you should have blood, fecal, and urine tests performed on your dog. You may be able to stop an illness or catch it early by getting these tests done at least once a year because things can be happening inside your dogs body that you cannot see. As with any aging pet, if you start noticing loss of energy, loss of appetite, or your old dog is just not them self take them to the vet immediately. Many health problems associated with aging can be treated with dietary changes and some good old exercise.

Just like young dogs, older dogs also need plenty of exercise to maintain their agility and health. If your dog is not exercising daily they may gain weight which could speed up the aging process dramatically. For older dogs, exercise should be in the form of short bursts of 20-30 minutes, several times a day. Walking is always good for dogs of any age and play is equally as important. Provide plenty of stimulation for your aging dog to keep them interested in playing. 2-3 short walks a day is sufficient exercise for an aging dog, as long as you move at a quick pace so your dog's heart rate becomes elevated. Exercise will help your dog stay fit and reduce stiffness in joints and muscles.

Other than regular exercise you should allow your aging dog a chance to socialize. Socializing includes interacting with other dogs and humans outside of your home. Take your dog to visit relatives and friends and give them plenty of chances to interact with other dogs. Dog parks are great places to let your dog run free and play with others. Maintaining your dogs social relationships is important to their mental health and happiness. Let your aging dog visit with all sizes, breeds, and ages of dogs to help keep their mind sharp.

Many older dogs, no matter what breed often suffer with arthritis and dental disease. These two illnesses are quite common in aging dogs. Arthritis may be treated with supplements and medications, but may also be treated with dietary and exercise changes. Just like humans, if a dogs teeth do not get brushed they will be more susceptible to dental and gum diseases. Some groomers and veterinarians may brush your dogs teeth or you can go to a pet dentist to have them professionally cleaned. Your dog should get a good teeth cleaning every 6-12 months to ensure they will have their chompers to the end. Feeding your dog wet food increases the amount of plaque build up on their teeth so you should occasionally feed dry food if it's not part of your dogs daily diet. Chews can also help remove some plaque from your dogs teeth.

As your dog ages their dietary needs will change. Puppies consume the most food because they are growing, developing, and expending a lot of energy. Once your dog is older than a year you should change to adult dog food and feed smaller portions. During the adult and middle aged years your dog should consume a steady diet that includes meats, grains, bones, fat, protein, and other essential nutrients. By the time your dog is 6-7 years old they will not need as much food, or even the same kind of food. Your veterinarian may suggest senior foods for your aging dog that include more fiber and less protein. For portion control, read the label or follow your veterinarians advice for feeding. Generally, for most breeds once in the morning, and once at night is sufficient. As with any pet, always provide fresh water.

As your dog ages it becomes more and more important to focus on their health and well being. After all they can't tell us when something hurts or they don't feel good. It's our responsibility to provide proper care, even at the oldest of ages. Just as you would want to be comfortable and healthy in your later years, so does your dog. Of course, you should learn as much as possible about your specific breed of dog so you can offer the best care. For the best quality of life for your aging dog visit the vet often, get plenty of exercise, and provide a nutritious healthy diet.