As your dog grows older, often you don't see the changes as they can be subtle. But if you're attentive to how your dog's body changes, you'll make the process smoother.
Just as with people, your dog’s body changes as it ages. However, these changes usually come gradually and as an owner, you may not be aware of them. Knowing how your dog ages can better prepare you to care of him (or her) when problems arise.
How Long Will Your Dog Live?
Aging depends on several factors, but generally, it depends on the breed. While smaller breeds live longer (15 years or more), giant breeds age (such as Saint Bernards) usually live less than a decade. And, you can expect a life expectancy of 11-14 years for large and medium-sized breeds
Arthritic Problems
Although all sizes and breeds of dogs struggle with arthritis, larger breeds have more difficulty. Breeds such as dachshunds and bassets are more prone to have disc problems as they age. Just as older people, dogs with arthritis have discomfort, ranging from slight to severe stiffness, struggling with climbing stairs and jumping into a car. Therefore, it’s important for owners to make sure their dogs receive as much exercise as possible. As with humans, “if you don’t lose it, you lose it.” Besides helping mobility, exercising your older dog also helps his muscles, heart, and digestive system. What’s more, it helps your dog to have a good mental attitude. Be sure to select an exercise routine tailored for his capabilities. Rather than taking your dog on long walks, aim for several short walks a day to help strengthen his muscles, as well as improve his muscle mass and tone.
Diet Adjustments
As your dog ages and his metabolism slows down, his calorie requirements decrease by about 20%. If you feed your older dog the same amount of food as when he was young, he’ll gain weight, creating an obesity problem. Your older dog also needs more fiber and less fat. This is especially true if your dog isn’t eating properly or struggles with medical conditions. Often dietary supplements are needed.
Dental Care
Good dental care is even more vital as your dog ages. By regularly brushing your dog’s teeth, you can reduce the odds of dental diseases. Dental problems can cause complications that can threaten your dog’s life. Besides tooth brushing, make sure your dog receives regular dental checkups and professional cleaning if needed.
Hearing Loss
Owners need to realize that often it’s hard to detect hearing loss. A first clue is noticing that your dog isn’t as attentive to strangers. Also, if he stops responding to simple commands, he’s probably losing his hearing. Therefore, it’s a good idea to teach a dog visible signals while he’s still young. For example, use lights to signal your dog, such as flashing a yard light when you want him to come inside the house. Other visible communications may include stomping on the floor or clapping your hands to get his attention.
Constipation
As with older people, dogs also struggle with constipation, as the flow of food in their digestive tracts slows down. Again, exercise is important. If your dog has severe problems with constipation, take him to a veterinarian. Often laxatives or diets rich in fiber are prescribed. And, be sure your dog drinks plenty of water.
Preparing for old age when your dog is still young can make his aging process more bearable, as well as prolong his life. Also, you need to monitor your dog more closely as he ages. The more sensitive you are to the various changes as he ages, the longer you’ll get to enjoy him.
