When Dogs Get Older
Caring for a older dog can be challenging. While there are just signs of age, there are also physiological changes that make caring for them mroe difficult
While the 7 "dog years" in every human year is a rought measure of a dog's age, it doesn't take into account differences in breed. Dogs do age faster than we do, and it's important to understand just how old your dog is.
If you want to understand how old your dog is, and where you should be in the care cycle, check out the Dog Age Calculator by Pedigree, you'll only need to know your dog's human age and breed.
Issues with Older Dogs
There are multiple issues with dogs as they get older. The more you understand what is normal for their age, the easier it becomes to care for them. Some of these are merely notable pieces of information for you; others are things you will want to keep an eye on for the health of your dog.
Loss of energy - Dogs, like humans, tend to slow down when they age for various reasons. Your dog may be dealing with arthritis, or may be experiencing muscle atrophy. Both of these are best diagnosed and treated by your veterinarian. Loneliness may also be a contributing factor to a dog losing energy. If they are not around other dogs that are more active, they will tend to be less active themselves. For this, try taking your dog to a dog park several times a week, or enrolling her in a doggie daycare a couple times per week; just be sure to let the staff know she is a senior dog so they can keep an eye on her. Be sure your dog's diet matches their age. Like people, dog's nutritional needs change as their bodies age. Also consider if your dog can chew hard dog food, or needs a softer food.
Graying Fur Even dogs get gray hair. This graying can occur over the entire coat, but usually exibits itself near the mussle. While this is not normally a health concern, it is an indication for you on where your companion is in his life cycle.
Hearing & Vision Problems Reduced hearing, cataracts and other vision problems are all common with dogs. Your veterinarian will be able to help you determine a treatment plan for your dog for acute vision and hearing problems. Be sure the care you provide for your dog is appropriate with her age. If she is running into walls and doors, you'll want to have her checked out. Remember how scary it can be for any animal if they are losing one of their senses.
Loss of Bowel & Bladder Control One of the most chagrined aspects of caring for an older dog is incontinence. While some of these issues are aligned with other problems like arthritis, it could simply be your dog not sensing the need to eliminate as early as they once had. Before you go invest in doggie diapers, try installing a dog door. This allows your animal to get outside when necessary, even if you ca not get them out in time. If you have a sliding door, consider the easy to install panel door instead of cutting into your wood door. Also, before installing a dog door, be sure your yard is secured with a fence and free of anything that could cause harm to your dog being they are unattended.
As your companion gets older, make sure you get educated on how to better care for him to keep him an integrated part of your family.
by: Ann Stewart Dog Insurance Cover - Does Dog Insurance Provide Good Value For Money CAT Online Exam Pet Insurance Gives Pet Owners A Peace Of Mind The World Pet Association Positively Impacted Communities Through Americas Family Pet Expo The Newbie's Uncomplicated Guide For Tourists Fancying To Leave For The Caribbean Tour Usa Made Raised Dog Beds Wait in line or do it all online – there's no competition Locating Gourmet-biscotti-online The Impact Of Globalization On Management Education In India Importance Of Yoga Certifications Best Boston Restaurants For Appetizers Relocating Tips For The Family Teens Who Competed In Greensboro Involved In Car Accident