How to Care for Geriatric Dogs
Perhaps you have had your dog since he was a puppy and you never thought about old age. However, just like people, you can expect your dog will grow older. Geriatric dogs can develop osteoarthritis, hearing loss, white hair, blindness, and numerous other age-related conditions. Knowing what to expect and how to care for them is very important.
- Keep in mind that geriatrics for
dogs happens at different ages depending on the size of the dog. For
instance, a toy poodle may not reach old age until it is around age
12 or 13 human years old, but a mastiff can become geriatric when
they are just five years old. Smaller dogs live longer than big dogs
in general so it makes sense that they age at different paces. - Take notice that your dog is less
active. This normally the first sign of him reaching his geriatric
years. Your dog may sleep for longer periods and just doesn't seem
to have the energy he once did. However, it is important to keep
your dog active; he may not be able to jog with you any longer, but
short brisk walks are very good for an aging dog's joints and
overall health. - If your dog doesn't seem to come
when you call him after laying down, he could be experiencing
arthritis, which is very common in aging dogs. Have your
veterinarian take a look at your dog. He or she can run x-rays of
the joints. They have medications that can help your dog's pain and
swelling. If your dog is overweight, you must get him on a light
diet since the excess weight can cause more pressure on the joints. - Check your dog's eyes. Some dogs
do get cataracts, but others develop “old dog eyes” which simply
means they can still see but it is like seeing through a dirty pair
of glasses. Cataracts can be removed, but there is nothing that can
be done about aging eyes. Therefore, make sure you do not rearrange
the furniture too often so that your dog can get around easier. In
addition, your dog's hearing will become dimmer and the older he
gets the more hearing he will lose. If he doesn't respond to you, it
is because he cannot hear you.