Now that you’re dog has shown you so much love and
brought you so much joy throughout your many years
together, it’s time that you return the favor when the dog
reaches his elder years. Caring for an older dog is much like
caring for an elderly person. Knowing how to do that will
help comfort your dog immensely.
What’s old for a dog?
The first thing that you’ve probably heard is the seven-year
rule (that your dog ages seven times faster than a human).
While this is pretty much accurate, some dogs (or breeds of
dogs) show signs of aging earlier than others. So, you’re
going to have to know what signs to look for to ascertain
whether your dog has officially reached his “golden years.”
Senility is not just for humans.
If your dog is older than seven (human years), then he’s
officially becoming older. While some dogs may show signs
far after seven, you may notice some of the following
characteristics once he reaches an older age. You may notice
that your dog has lost some of his housetraining skills. He
may soil or wet the area, especially through the night when
lying down. He may have trouble chewing food due to loose
teeth and sore gums. He may suffer from cataracts or even
partial or full blindness. He may gain weight more easily.
Weigh your dog every couple of months. If you notice large
lumps under his skin, it’s advised that you consult your
veterinarian, as this may be a sign of a possible tumor or
cancer. Your dog may even become grumpier.
While it’s impossible to cure all of the maladies that
accompany age, you can comfort your dog and make his
older life enjoyable.
Medication can help
There are many drugs out there that can help your dog.
While it’s not advised to give your pet too many
medications, there are some that can help if he’s suffering
joint or hip pain. If your dog seems extra tired or sore one
day, go ahead and skip his daily exercise routine. If it last
more than a couple of days, talk with your vet. Install a
partial ramp over the steps to and from your house so that
your dog doesn’t have to deal with the harsh incline on his
joints. Massage and rub your dog’s muscles. Studies have
shown that physio- or hydrotherapy can be extremely
beneficial in your dog’s elder years.
Grooming offers relief
Be sure to clip your older dog’s nails as he probably doesn’t
run about as much as when he was younger. The nails won’t
naturally keep trimmed down, so you’ll have to be sure to
keep his nails under control. If you don’t want to do it
yourself, veterinarians usually provide this service.
Your dog may become senile. While this is normal, some
cases are so severe that they are compared to Alzheimer’s.
There are dog drugs, like those given to human Alzheimer’s
patents that have proven effective.
Routines are welcome
Be sure that you keep your dog on a regular routine.
Exercise him daily. Control his weight. Buy high-quality
food and groom, pet and cuddle with your dog frequently.
Visit your vet at least once a year to screen for diseases. Buy
an orthopedic bed mat for your older dog.
Disabilities can occur
If your dog is blind or nearly there, you can make a home
solution of vinegar mixed with water to spray (about nose
high) onto door frames and sofas so he doesn’t run into
them. Also, don’t move furniture around. For deaf dogs, tell
everyone (especially children), not to approach your dog too
quickly. Be sure that the dog sees anyone coming towards
him.
Caring for an older dog can be just as hard as caring for a
puppy. Your dog will take kindly to the adaptations you’ve
made, which will make his “golden years” truly shine.
About the Author:
Tina Spriggs is an expert dog lover whose lifelong interest in canines provides the motivation for her site. To learn more about dogs or to find gifts and toys for them visit her site at
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Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
