6 Signs Your Dog Is Aging: Recognizing Senior Changes

Life's subtle nuances often serve as telltale signs that we're aging, such as no longer needing to run the air conditioner around the clock, needing a nap after staying up late, or wrapping ourselves snugly in winter. Today's article delves into these details, but this time, we're focusing on the signs that your furry friend, the dog, is growing older.

Let's take a look at some of these telltale signs that your dog is entering its golden years:

Eyes

One of the most common signs of aging in dogs is the clouding of the eye lens. It might not be immediately noticeable, but if you observe your dog having trouble with its gait, frequently bumping into objects it shouldn't, and the lens appears cloudy, it could be a sign of impending vision loss.

While some cloudiness in an aging dog's eyes is normal, those with eye diseases may lose their sight more rapidly, and the lens can become very cloudy. It's crucial to monitor these changes closely.

Respiration

Difficulty breathing is a common issue, especially in dogs that are already on the heavier side. If a dog that usually breathes easily starts to struggle, it might indicate an oral issue, which is often related to the aging immune system. For dogs that have always had breathing difficulties, a worsening of these symptoms can be a sign of aging.

It's important to maintain clean teeth and establish a routine of regular veterinary checkups.

Exercise

Dogs primarily use their hind legs for movement. As they age, a decline in their mobility is a significant change, and a decrease in their jumping ability is often the first thing owners notice.

Besides following the vet's recommended nutritional supplements, owners should ensure regular, moderate exercise, such as walks, to keep their dogs active. Don't let a decrease in mobility deter you from maintaining your dog's daily exercise routine.

Skin Lumps

Occasionally, dogs may develop lumps on their skin, which, upon veterinary examination, turn out to be harmless. These are typically lipomas, which often resolve on their own. However, as dogs age, the rate at which these lumps disappear slows, and they may appear more frequently. It's essential to consult with a vet to rule out the possibility of malignant tumors.

Weight

While humans tend to lose weight as they age, dogs often gain weight. Older dogs should not be exempt from regular exercise, even if it's just a daily walk, to help manage their weight and prevent obesityrelated health issues.

Elimination

One of the most common symptoms of aging is incontinence or difficulty with bowel movements. While aging itself doesn't cause these issues, they can be signs of urinary tract infections or kidney diseases. It's important to seek veterinary care promptly to address these issues.

Older dogs not only experience physical changes but also psychological ones. They might suddenly fear familiar people or objects, have more difficulty sleeping and may react aggressively upon waking. They may also bark more, exhibit obsessive behaviors like excessive licking, forget commands they once knew, become more anxious, lose their sense of direction, and become less active.

Research shows that dogs over eight years of age are more prone to Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CCDS), which can be thought of as canine dementia. If your dog shows many of these symptoms, it's advisable to seek medical attention promptly.