Caring for Senior Dogs

It's no secret that one human year can be equivalent to 7 – 10 dog years. According to The Bark, "This means not only that puppies grow both physically and socially at a blazing speed, they also become senior citizens at an accelerated rate ... While we cannot stop the aging process, there are measures we can take to ensure that our pets live long, healthy lives."

So, what measures can dog owners take to best care for older dogs? We've compiled a list of 5 tips!

1. Determine if your dog is a "senior"
According to VetStreet.com, different dog breeds age at varying rates, and larger dogs reach senior status faster than smaller dogs.

"While each dog reaches "seniorhood" at a different age, most canines become seniors between 7 and 10 years old. It's important to know your dog's age, so you know when he becomes a senior. Ask your vet about when your dog's needs may begin to change."

2. Be on the lookout for senior-dog health issues
Be sure to have your dog examined for issues that occur in older dogs. The AVMA lists the following things vets look for in older dogs:

CancerHeart diseaseKidney/urinary tract diseaseLiver diseaseDiabetesJoint or bone diseaseSenilityWeakness

VetStreet.com also points out that many senior dog illnesses can be detected with the untrained eye. Contact your vet immediately if you notice:

Incontinence (sometimes evidenced by accidents in the house)LumpsConstipation or diarrheaShortness of breath or other difficulty breathingCoughingWeaknessUnusual dischargesChanges in appetite, water intake, or urinationStiffness or limpingIncreased vocalizationUncharacteristic aggression or other behavioral changes

3. Pay attention to your dog's diet
According to PetFinder.com, older dogs need higher-quality protein. Look for dog foods containing a statement that the product has been tested according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Also, keep quality in mind. "Older dogs have an even harder time digesting poor quality foods, as their organs become less efficient with the aging process. Unless you want to research each food or get a recommendation from your veterinarian, it's probably best to avoid foods sold at grocery stores," PetFinder says.

4. Adjust your home's comfort level
"Older dogs can't regulate their body temperature as well as they could in their younger days," says VetStreet.com. When she's not outside playing or getting exercise, keep your dog inside where it's warm and dry. It's also important to protect senior dogs from overheating in the summer months.

VetStreet.com also advises, "If your dog has arthritis, he may prefer a ramp instead of walking up the stairs, extra blankets on his bed, or even a new bed designed to promote orthopedic health. If your dog suffers from vision loss, it's a good idea to ease his anxiety by keeping floors clear of clutter. These little things add up."

5. Don't neglect your senior dog's dental care
PetFinder.com highlights the importance of dental care for senior dogs. "Simply put, dental disease is nearly epidemic in older dogs. If you have adopted an older dog from a shelter, chances are very good that she needs dental attention ... Tartar build-up on neglected teeth leads to inflamed and infected gums, or gingivitis. The bacteria from gingivitis affects all body systems, especially the major organs of kidney, liver, and heart."

Do you have other suggestions for caring for a senior dog? As usual, leave us a comment and let us know!