Treating Old and Aging Dogs

Different breeds of dogs age at different rates. A large breed such as a Rottweiler or Great Dane will reach old age sooner than smaller breeds like Chihuahuas or Toy Poodles. Life spans range from 7 to 15 years, with each year equivalent to 6 or 7 human years. Despite whatever breed your dog may be, you will have to watch them closely when they get older. Take your dog on regular visits to the vet to determine where your dog is in his life cycle and what special needs are required at each stage.

Signs of Sickness or Old Age

No matter what the age, there are certain changes that most owners of elderly dogs will experience. Common behavior problems in aging pets include empathy regarding food and interaction with other pets and people. Watch for aggression, house soiling, increased barking, and wandering. These may be signals your dog needs extra care.

What to do When Dog is Sick

The first thing you should do upon noticing any of these behavioral changes is determine the cause. That means a physical workup and a talk with your dog’s doctor. Aging pets will begin to have many more health issues than they did when they were younger and many times those issues will be the cause of problems such as aggression. You are grumpier when you don’t feel well and your pet is no different than you. Unfortunately, a grumpy pet may be more likely than a human to lash out physically, and that means biting or snapping. If a previously non-aggressive dog begins to exhibit aggressive behavior, determine whether it is a physical problem that can be handled with medication. If not, simply make sure that family members and visitors realize that Shadow no longer likes to be touched in that particular spot if, for instance, the problem is an arthritic hip.

Sometimes, however, decreased functioning of eyesight or hearing may cause fear aggression in a pet. In that case, make sure people know that they should warn the pet of their approach. Do not approach the pet suddenly. Simply calling out, “Hey Shadow, it’s me,” if the pet has eyesight issues, or making sure he can see you coming if he has hearing issues, will usually do the trick.

Is Shadow Withdrawn and Depressed?

Even if your pet is not exhibiting aggression, you will want to be alert for other changes in behavior associated with pain or failing senses. Pets with these problems may also become withdrawn and depressed. If he starts lying around all day and refuses food or playtime, then that may be a sign of depression in your pet. You will want to make the effort to deal with the physical problems, and also to make sure that the pet is still included in interactions with the family.

Always make sure your aging pet is getting the right nutrition, as incomplete nutrition can lead to decreased mental and physical functioning in older pets. But above all, have patience with your pet. His life is changing and he will need your continued emotional support to make his golden years truly golden.

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