By Christine D. Calder,
DVM, DACVB
Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist, www.caldervbs.com
Due to advances in modern veterinary medicine, dogs are living longer than ever before. As our pets age, they may need a little more patience and understanding from us. Recognizing the signs of aging and knowing how to support your older dogs will keep them happy and healthy as muzzles start to gray.
Changes to Expect as Dogs Get Older
When dogs are considered seniors, varies depending on the size of the dogs. Most dogs become seniors at around seven years of age. At this stage in their lives, you may begin to see changes in how the dog acts from day to day.
• Senior dogs often need more rest, sometimes sleeping up to 20 hours during a single day. If you notice sudden changes in sleep patterns, such as night waking or wandering, this can be a sign of pain or other health problems. These changes should always be checked by a veterinarian.
• Compared to their younger selves or younger siblings, older dogs may be less active and may not want to play or walk as much. They get tired more easily and can begin to have trouble with stairs, jumping onto furniture, or getting into the car.
• Some older dogs may begin to lose weight due to dental disease or muscle loss from arthritis or other conditions. Others may gain weight if they move less frequently or develop endocrine diseases. For example, an underactive thyroid or Cushing’s disease, where their body produces too much cortisol, can both contribute to weight gain.
• As your dog matures, you might notice it does not always hear you, or it may start to bump into things. Cataracts and hearing loss are not uncommon in older dogs. These changes can lead to behavioral changes that may go unnoticed at first but become clearer over time.
• Aging dogs may seem more irritable, especially if they are dealing with pain, confusion, or changes in the home environment. Irritability can be a sign of an underlying medical problem and is always worth discussing with your veterinarian. Pain can cause difficulty sleeping and may even lead to aggressive behaviors, especially when your dog is uncomfortable.
Understanding Dog Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
Older dogs can suffer from a condition called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction, or “dog dementia.” This condition is similar to Alzheimer’s disease in people. Some common behaviors you may observe include: getting lost in the house or yard, getting stuck in corners, pacing, or trouble sleeping at night. Other signs are: forgetting house training rules and eliminating indoors, not greeting family members, seeming confused, becoming more anxious, or developing new fears about noises or about being left alone. If your dog starts to show these signs, it is important to talk with your veterinarian. While there is no cure for dog dementia, medications and prescription diets are available that can help your dog.
Supporting Your Senior Dog
There are many ways to support your aging dog’s behavior, keeping it active, engaged, and comfortable as it grows older.
• Puzzle toys, stuffed and frozen food-dispensing toys, or simply hiding treats around the house and yard can keep your dog’s brain busy and problem-solving. Activities that encourage sniffing are especially helpful for relaxation and exercise.
• Keeping exercise as part of your daily routine helps keep your dog engaged with its surroundings, maintains healthy weight, and tones muscles. Short and frequent walks are often better than long walks, and you should avoid rough play. Swimming is a good low-impact activity for dogs who enjoy the water.
• Since dogs are a social species, give them opportunities to spend time with people and other pets (if your dog enjoys their company). Positive reinforcement training will keep their minds sharp. You can teach helpful behaviors, such as settling on a mat or touching your hand on cue, which can be used to encourage relaxation and keep them moving if they stop on a walk.
• If you have slippery floors or stairs, adjustments may be needed. Rugs or mats with non-slip backing can help reduce slippage. You can also add ramps to help your dog get on and off the couch, bed, or car. Make sure to set up a quiet, cozy bed in an area where your dog can rest undisturbed.
As your dog matures, regular veterinary visits should always be part of your plan. Routine check-ups help to make sure your dog’s health stays in tip-top shape and make it easier to spot changes in behavior or new health concerns early.