If your best friend is over 7 years old, you will probably begin to notice these 10 signs of aging in dogs that we explain below. It is basically about factors that appear due to age. Knowing them will help you better understand your dog and take care of him as he deserves at this stage of his life.
If you notice some urine that doesn't belong or attitudes of disorientation, don't worry, they are things of age. Now you must learn to live with it and redirect it to make both of your lives more comfortable.
Keep reading this post on our site and don't forget to pay attention to the links we offer at the end of the article, related to elderly dogs and their care.
1. His senses begin to fail him
Just like people, dogs with age begin to lose the sharpness of their senses. Problems such as deafness or blindness are common in older dogs. For this reason, we must start looking for new ways of communicating with the dog and offer him a more tender and careful treatment.
In these cases we must be careful and remember to place all their belongings (bed, toys, feeder) Always in the same places to so that he doesn't feel confused and can move around the house in peace.
two. Some urinary problems appear
It is very common for older dogs to sometimes urinate at home. We must not scold or punish them, we will clean the urine when he does not see us. To try to avoid this situation we can offer you more regular but shorter walks so as not to tire you.
3. Degenerative diseases develop
Some degenerative diseases appear with age and usually cause discomfort and sadness in the dog. It will be convenient to go to the vet to advise us on a remedy if he has a strong sensation of pain. In the meantime, it will be essential to provide a comfortable bed in which to relax. Some of the most common degenerative diseases:
- Osteoarthritis
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Osteoarthritis
Unfortunately, dogs are also susceptible to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's in dogs. This directly affects a change in behavior and the appearance of strange and incoherent behaviors. Patience and affection will be essential.
You should know that dogs suffering from Alzheimer's can forget where the food is or where you are. Supervising him and ensuring his well-being should be a priority for you.
4. Changes in the skin are observed
There are many changes in the dog's coat that indicate that our best friend is approaching old age: white fur, calluses or pad problemsare usually the most common. It is important to tell our regular veterinarian about the appearance of calluses or dry pads.
5. Drowsiness and tiredness
Senior dogs need more rest than adult dogs, tireless and active, for this reason it will be importantLet him rest quietly for as long as he needs. You will begin to notice that he is less and less effusive when receiving you, but nevertheless he is more tender and delicate when he is with you.
Some of these problems may be related to pain caused by an illness.
We must know that elderly dogs should not be forced to perform excessive exercise as this can cause damage to their muscles and bones. Discover some exercises for dogs with hip dysplasia.
6. Appearance of cavities and tartar
Dog teeth are often affected over time. To do this, it will be important to clean the dog's teeth regularly and provide oral hygiene snacks, now very popular. Taking care of the teeth of the elderly dog is very important so that it can continue to eat with the appropriate ease.
7. Calm and stable character
The character of the old dog is, simply adorableAs time goes by his kisses are more delicate and close, and his demeanor calmer and more stable. Although we should begin to avoid long walks or active exercise, we can continue to enjoy a playful and happy dog. Discover some intelligence games for dogs so that you continue to stimulate them and they don't get bored.
8. Weight changes
Old dogs often experience significant weight changes. We must emphasize the importance of aiming for an appropriate weight and avoid obesity at all costs, since it will have a direct impact on the appearance of some degenerative diseases. Discover how to prevent obesity in dogs.
Do not forget that at this stage the dog must make the change to senior food or +7, a product focused on specific needs of the animal at this stage. Do not hesitate to tell the vet about these changes.
9. Becomes more dependent
The dog understands that he undergoes important physical and mental changes and all this makes him become more dependent on his family nucleus. We must support and guide him towards those stimuli that provide safety and comfort.
10. Appearance of tumors
The appearance of tumors is common in older dogs It is very important to go to the vet as soon as we detect one. The specialist will tell us if it is a benign or malignant tumor and how we should proceed. It is very important to treat this problem as soon as possible.
Visit the following articles to learn more:
- Elderly dog care guide
- Elderly Dog Behavior
- Vitamins for an elderly dog
- Activities for elderly dogs
