Caring For Your Elderly Dog

Old age is not a disease, it's a stage of life. Larger dogs will hit the "elderly stage" earlier than smaller dogs: Giant breeds-- 5 to 6 years, Medium dogs-- 7 to 8 years and Smaller dogs-- 10 to 12 years. Once your beloved dog starts to reach this age range, it's time to start adjusting their care in order to give them the longest, healthiest and happiest life possible. Here are some tips on caring for your elderly dog:

• Elderly dogs are more sensitive to extreme temperature changes because their metabolism is changing. They are less able to thermoregulate. In cold weather, if needed, provide your dog with a winter coat and do not leave them outside as long. In hot weather, again, do not leave them outside as long. Plus, make sure their is plenty of opportunities for hydration. Dehydration is at a higher risk. 
• Start to moderate exercise. As your dog starts to age, the heart and lungs will start to weaken. This will mean Fido will no longer be able to exercise as long or as hard as in earlier years. Exercise will need to be adjusted accordingly.
• Work with your veterinarian on adjusting your dog to a "senior diet". Working with a veterinarian or canine health professional is important. Unlike puppy food, there is no regulation as to what is considered a senior diet in the pet food industry. 
• Keep an eye on your dog's weight. Extra weight will wreak havoc on your dog's joints. In turn, this can exacerbate arthritic symptoms. For more information on Hip Dysplasia and arthritis, click here (hips) and here (arthritis).
• Incontinence may happen. Please do not punish, but realize that this is just part of the stage of life. But, it is also important to have this checked out by your veterinarian in order to make sure there is not an underlying medical issue like a bladder infection, ect..
• Canine Cognitive Dysfunction may also happen. You may notice that your dog isn't performing the tricks that used to be a favorite or is forgetting the daily walking route. Elderly dogs can also suffer memory loss as they get older. Here is a helpful link (click here) on how to recognize Canine Cognitive Dysfunction in your dog. 
• Saying Goodbye. I know this isn't a topic we like to think about. Letting go is HARD. But, there may come a time when your Furry Companion is just ready to cross the rainbow bridge. If you happen to notice a lack of luster, your dog is no longer playing, not enjoying life, not interacting, not interested in food or social interaction and in general nothing you or your vet can do to bring your pup back to "normal", it may be time to consider what is the overall quality of your dogs life is at this point. Sometimes, a dog may be ready to cross when the humans is not ready to let go. This prolongs the suffering on both ends. 

I hope these tips are helpful as you and your canine approach this stage of your dog's life. With care, thoughtfulness and understanding, this stage of your dog's life is rewarding and can help you and your canine bond on a deeper level (As well as teach you, the owner, A LOT of lessons about yourself. 😉) Remember: with age, comes wisdom!