When is a Dog Considered Old?
Not all dogs age at the same rate. Here is a general guide:
- Small dogs are considered seniors around 10 years old (life expectancy: 14 to 18 years).
- Medium-sized dogs are considered seniors between 8 and 9 years old (life expectancy: 12 to 14 years).
- Large dogs are considered seniors between 6 and 7 years old (life expectancy: 8 to 12 years).
- Giant breeds are considered seniors at around 5 years old (life expectancy: 6 to 8 years).
Common Senior Dog Diseases
Older dogs are more susceptible to certain diseases, as their metabolism is more fragile than that of younger dogs. The most common issues include:
- Pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases.
- Eye degeneration.
- Kidney failure.
- Hip dysplasia in certain breeds (e.g., Shepherds).
- Urinary infections and difficulty urinating.
- Arthritis.
- Cancer.
What Behavioral Changes Should You Expect with an Older Dog?
As dogs age, their bodies change (decreased vision, increased sensitivity to illness, joint issues, tooth loss, loss of smell, kidney problems, digestive difficulties…) but so do their behaviours. Older dogs tend to be more sensitive to illnesses, stress, and need a secure living environment, as they desire to feel safe and protected. It’s important to be patient, as older dogs may display unusual or problematic behaviours:
- Easier to bite.
- Issues with cleanliness.
- Disobedience to commands.
- Lack of energy.
- Eating their feces.
- Pica (compulsively licking or eating non-edible items).
- Barking or whining frequently.
Note that most of these behavioural changes are related to health issues. A dog that bites without clear reason might be in pain. A dog that urinates everywhere may have urinary problems. We recommend taking your dog to the vet to rule out any medical issues or to get treatment.
How to Take Care of Your Senior Dog?
Several daily actions can make life easier for your senior dog:
- Monitor Your Dog’s Health: Take time to observe your dog. Are they moving properly? Eating and drinking as usual? This will help you quickly spot any health changes. Regularly palpate your dog to detect any pain (why not massage them while you’re at it?). Check for any sores, redness, wounds, or parasites. Inspect their teeth, claws, paws, and eyes. If in doubt, consult your vet.
- Be Gentle During Walks: Letting your senior dog rest is not a good idea. Senior dogs need constant attention and don’t take kindly to sudden changes in their routine. Even though they shouldn’t be overexerted, they still need physical activity to stay healthy.