Owners should be watching for any problems their aging dogs might encounter. Elderly dogs should be screened for diseases. Vaccinations should be current. Also, owners need to be aware of behavioral and physical changes.
Behavioral Changes in Older Dogs
- The older dog doesn't get as excited as he did when he was younger.
- Elderly dogs aren’t as curious.
- Because they have less energy, older dogs tire easily and will sleep more.
- Older dogs tend to be crankier and less tolerant of strangers.
Stress Can Harm Older Dogs
Dogs are truly creatures of habit. Any change in their daily routine can cause emotional distress.
Boarding is never a good idea for an older dog. Putting an elderly canine in an unfamiliar kennel can lead to the dog refusing to eat or sleep. There may be excessive barking. If at all possible, owners might consider leaving the dog at home instead of using a kennel. Family members or neighbors could check on him once or twice a day.
Emotional and physical trauma may also happen if an older dog has to be hospitalized. If possible, it’s better for the dog to remain home during a medical treatment. Owners can follow their vet’s instruction and periodically return their pet to him for observation.
Moving an older dog to a strange environment isn’t the only way that the dog can become stressed. Normally simple things, like changes in diet or water, may make an elderly dog mentally or physically upset. If a new food is introduced to the dog, it should be introduced gradually. Owners might try mixing the old food in with the new until their pet is used to it.
Physical Changes in Aging Dogs
Dogs, like their human heroes, change physically as they age. Less activity means they lose muscle tone. Owners may notice stiffness in their dog’s joints when they get up or lay down. This may be due to osteoarthritis. Older animals should sleep on a padded surface. They should never sleep on the cold ground or on a cement floor.
Older metabolisms have trouble handling extremes in weather. Take care that the dog doesn’t chill during cold weather. Keep him inside on a padded surface. Hot weather can also stress an older dog. Keep him indoors with plenty of water available on hot days.
Tips for Caring for Older Dogs
Elderly canines can continue to enjoy a good life with their families with a little care.
- Modest exercise is good. Strenuous exercise can be harmful.
- Keep fresh water available at all time. This helps kidney function.
- Coats become drier due to glands producing less oil. Brush coats regularly.
- Watch feet pads for cracked, dry skin.
- Loose or rotted teeth should be removed. If the dog has no teeth, soak dry dog food for 20 minutes or feed canned food.
- Tartar can be reduced by feeding dog biscuits.
- Don’t feed bones to an older dog. Bones can harden stools and cause constipation.
Introducing a Puppy to Elderly Dogs
Sometimes adding a new puppy to the household can be a great experience for an older dog.
Owners should remember that the older dog loves being the center of attention. Prevent jealously by giving him the most attention. He should always understand he is more important than the puppy. When handled right, older dogs usually enjoy being around younger dogs. In fact, they will often be invigorated by the young whippersnappers.
Dogs are living longer than ever before thanks to new medicines, improved technologies, and better education. Elderly canines, just like their human masters, do experience behavioral and physical changes as they age. There are many ways owners can make sure their older family members continue to have a good quality of life.
Jayne Mays - Jayne has over 20 years of experience as a teacher and writer.
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