Common Questions Owners Ask About Senior Dogs

Due to higher quality veterinary care and better medical technology, canines are living much long today than in years past. As with people, however, living longer can pose physical and mental challenges. As dogs age, their owners may notice changes in the way they move and behave. These are signs their pets' needs are shifting. It's important for owners to recognize these signs in order to accommodate their needs.

With this in mind, we'll answer some of the most common questions people ask about their senior canines. This article will help clarify some of the strange behaviors you may be noticing in your aging pooch.

"Is It Normal For Older Dogs To Eat Less?"

Generally speaking, yes. A lot of older pets seem to lose their appetite as they age. One of the reasons is because they are less active. Because they are burning less energy during the day, their caloric requirements are lower. Hence, a sluggish appetite.

If your pooch is losing weight and still eating much less than normal, have his veterinarian examine him. This will help rule out diseases or health issues that may be contributing to his loss of interest in food.

"Does My Senior Canine Need More Frequent Veterinary Care?"

When your dog reaches his twilight years, consider taking him to the veterinarian every six months for checkups. Preventative care becomes more important than ever as your pet's immune system becomes less effective. The vet can perform a physical examination, dental exam, and rectal exam. He or she can also test your pooch's eyes to identify signs of cataracts or glaucoma.

Other tests may include blood work, a urinalysis, thyroid test, and a blood pressure test. The earlier health issues are identified, the more effectively they can be addressed.

"Why Does My Older Pooch Ignore Me?"

The most common reason canines become less responsive to their owners is a loss of hearing. It usually happens gradually, but most owners remain unaware of the problem until the hearing loss is severe. By that time, it often seems as if the dog is completely unresponsive to the point of defiance.

First, have the veterinarian test your pooch's hearing. That way, you'll have a better idea regarding the severity of the loss. Then, develop hand signals that will allow you to communicate with your canine. Lastly, have patience with him.

"Why Does My Senior Dog Have Constipation So Often?"

Older canines experience constipation for a couple of reasons. First, they're less active. Second, their dietary needs are changing because their metabolism is slowing down. Take your dog for a daily walk and increase the level of fiber in his meals. Doing these two things will improve his bowel function.

"My Canine Is Usually Friendly. Why Is He Snapping More?"

There may be several concurrent reasons your senior canine snaps more often than he did in his youth. If his hearing or vision is lacking, he may be startled by your approach and react by snapping.

Also, it's possible that he is experiencing joint pain; arthritis is common in older dogs. If he is feeling pain in his joints, he may be less capable of retreating from circumstances he finds irritating. As his stress level increases, his tolerance level declines. The result? Snapping.

"My Older Dog Seems Senile. Is This Possible?"

Yes. It is possible. Just as elderly people may experience short or long-term symptoms of senility, so too, can canines. It is called cognitive dysfunction. You may notice your dog behaving as if he is confused or has lost his memory. His sleep patterns might change; he may fail to recognize family members; and he might become steadily less active. Make an appointment with his veterinarian. He or she may be able to recommend medications or dietary changes that will reduce your pooch's symptoms.

Canines are similar to people in many ways, one of them being the manner in which they age. Recognize the signs of your senior dog's changing needs and take steps to accommodate them. Doing so will help him remain comfortable throughout his remaining years.