An Old Dog

Question
How do I know when it is time to let my little dog go?  She is a Shi-zu, Cocapoo mix - 13 lbs and dropping, and 15 years,9 months old.  She is mostly blind I think, I don't know what she hears, she does not have many teeth, she gets fussier and fussier about what to eat and I'm mostly fixing eggs and hiding dog food in it and most of the time I have to feed her.  She still has good days but more often she seems confused.  I have to carry her downstairs because otherwise she just leaps and misses the whole thing.  I think after typing all of this I've answered my own question but would most Vets view this as the right time?  I wish she would just fall asleep and not wake up but I guess that is not going to happen.

Thank you for any help you can provide.
Wanda Brieger

Answer
Hi Wanda!  
My heart goes out to you.  I have a little Shih Tzu, so I can completely understand the love you must feel for your dog.  I love this breed, as they are extremely affectionate dogs.
It's very hard to answer your question.  Your dog is elderly, and she is showing her age.  These symptoms are very, very common in elderly dogs.  Her confusion may be senility, which is not uncommon in dogs.  She may not be eating well because her senses (including her sense of smell) may be weakening.  Or, she may not be eating well because something serious may be going on.  If you are not ready to part with your dear girl, a geriatric blood profile may detect some ailments that can be treated....it may also detect things that are not treatable, which would then help you make this decision a bit easier.  
I can't tell you what to do, but I can tell you that no one would ridicule you for either decision that you make.  She has obviously lived a very long life full of happiness and love.  It's up to you whether or not you feel as though you want her to live out the rest of her life or if you feel as though her life should end.  Either way, I'm sure that you will make the best decision for both you and your dog.
I wish I could be of more help.
Please know that I'm thinking of you and your old baby girl.
Hilary