WHAT TO EXPECT AS YOUR DOG AGES

As your furry pal ages he requires more attention and special care. A lot of physical and mental changes happen in dogs that is akin with human aging. Aging is a factor that differs among various breeds and size of dogs. For instance, larger breeds like Great Danes are considered to be a senior when they are 5 to 6 years old, on the other hand, smaller breeds like the Chihuahua step into being a senior when they are about 10 to 11 years of age.

Here are a few signs which will help you identify with the problems that your canine companion will probably face as he gets older:

• Eye problems and vision loss:  As your four legged buddy ages the lens of his eyes get cloudy and start  showing signs of eye discomfort like redness or coating in the eye. If he is always bumping into objects or falling unexpectedly, it is a sure sign that he is having eye problems and must be taken to the vet for effective treatment.
• Urinary incontinence:  Increased urination or strained urination is a sign of kidney disease or urinary tract infection which is commonly seen in middle age and senior dogs. As your dog grows older his kidney functioning and control over the urinary bladder sphincter decreases. If the male dogs are not neutered then the prostate enlarges, as a part of aging process, leading to obstruction in the urethra and your dog will find it difficult to pass urine.
• Dental problems:  If you have not taken care of your four legged pal’s teeth by regularly brushing him or by taking him to the vet for professional cleaning then he will definitely have dental problems like bad breath, excessive drooling and gum disease. Maintaining oral hygiene ensures that your pet has healthy teeth, so discuss with your vet on possible solutions to tackle your pet’s dental issues.
• Lumps and skin problems:  Your canine friend’s skin often thickens and darkens with age and also lose their elasticity. Their footpads thicken and nails turn brittle. Their coat starts to lose lustre and turn dull and they may experience hair fall as well. He may also develop rashes, lesions, swelling or lumps.
• Weight gain or loss:  If your furry pal has gained weight then it leads to obesity and other health issues like heart disease and arthritis. If he has lost weight then it is a sign of underlying illness like diabetes or cancer. The best thing for you to do is to take him to the vet for body conditioning to determine his ideal weight and to start treatment for his disease. A proper diet and exercise regime will ensure his good health and increase his lifespan.
• Difficulty moving:  If your four legged buddy is finding it difficult to move, is limping, or is crying of pain when you pick him up he may be suffering from joint problems like arthritis or hip dysplasia.  He may have to lose weight if he is obese and follow dietary changes along with nutritional supplements prescribed by your vet.            
• Behavioural changes and memory problems:  Changes in your pet’s behavior is a part of the normal process of aging. They may also be a sign of underlying condition called Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome that is same as Alzheimer’s in humans. You have to consult with your vet if he shows signs of confusion, disorientation, memory loss, irritability, unusual pacing or forgetting familiar faces or housetraining techniques.