Growing old is no fun, even for dogs. But there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be comfortable. Understanding what your dog goes through in the latter part of its life can help make it less stressful for your pet. 

At what age is a dog considered a senior? Generally, dogs have a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years.  

It is believed that one human year is equivalent to seven years in a dog’s life. But dogs reach adulthood in the first two years. The ratio can vary according to breed but you can say that a dog reaches old age when it hits 10 human years. 

An older dog requires different care. What’s worse is that it can’t tell you what it is going through so it will be up to you to be sensitive to its needs. 

Like any creature that ages, a dog’s behavior and physique will change when it gets older. Health problems, sometimes life-threatening, will set in. As such, an older dog requires more frequent visits to the vet to monitor its general condition. 

Symptoms of ageing 

One of the common ailments is arthritis. This affects the joints but fortunately there is medication to help ease the pain and discomfort. 

Older dogs will be more susceptible to tooth and gum diseases. You will have to pay more attention to his oral hygiene. Make sure the vet examines your dog's teeth. 

A dog’s eyesight will also deteriorate with age. Don’t be surprised if your dog keeps crashing into things.  

It would be thoughtful to keep stairs and hallways well-lit and free from obstruction. 

Avoid moving your dog’s bed and bowl. Think twice before re-arranging the furniture. A dog with poor eyesight will have problems navigating the living room.  

If you are relocating to a new home or traveling to unfamiliar areas, your pet will likely be anxious and afraid. Reassure and orientate the dog by walking it on a leash. Stop at each unfamiliar obstacle so that it can investigate its new surroundings. 

Eat and exercise moderately 

Although it may not have a good stamina, an older dog still needs moderate exercise. A stroll in the park will do it good. 

Where possible, a swim is even better because of the low impact. Still, go slow as it can’t possibly be as frisky as it used to be. 

An older dog’s diet will change too. This would be best prescribed by your vet.  

Keep a close watch on your dog’s weight. The excess fat can be stressful on those joints. Be sparing when giving out treats. 

Obesity also contributes to heart problems. Overweight dogs usually have a heavy belly when viewed from the side. You should be able to feel its ribs easily if your dog is of the ideal weight. 

If you notice your dog suddenly increasing its intake of water, it could be a sign of diabetes or kidney problems.  

Tell your vet of such changes. 

Dementia in dogs  

Dogs can experience age-related dementia. Signs of dementia include confusion where it may not recognize you or looks lost in your compound.  

It may confuse day with night, tending to sleep all day and be awake when it’s dark.  

You may observe personality changes as well. Medication can help. 

You can imagine how difficult it is for your dog to deal with old age so make it as comfortable for your pet as possible.  

Older dogs with ailments need to be in a calm environment. Boisterous kids should be told to keep out of an old dog’s way as their behavior may startle it. A grumpy old dog may not take too kindly to junior treading on its aching hip and may get aggressive. 

It is important to remember that, as a responsible pet owner, you should never abandon your faithful old friend the moment it becomes a hassle to care for. 

Older dogs need just as much care, reassurance and love as cute, young, puppies. Thus, be more patient and sensitive with this trusty companion who has served you well over the years.  

This is the final of a six-article series to educate and promote Responsible Pet Ownership (RPO) amongst the Malaysian public as part of a collaborative campaign by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Malaysian Small Animal Veterinary Association (MSAVA), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) and PEDIGREE Food For Dogs.