Just like humans, dogs require different kinds of care at each stage of life, and it is essential that pet owners be aware of the changes ahead so that they can plan for prevention, according to PetMD.
Unlike humans, there are many different breeds and sizes of dogs that can bring their unique challenges. In general, bigger dogs age faster so giants like Great Danes will be considered senior age at around 5-6 years old while a small dog like a Chihuahua might be closer to 10-11. The most common issues to watch out for are degenerative issues such as arthritis, dental disease, and obesity.
Dogs suffering from arthritis can't tell their owners that they are hurting but might provide clues if they seem to tire more easily, have trouble moving up and down stairs, or not be able to sleep comfortably. Dental care is something that should be addressed at all times for a dog, but a lack of attention can cause severe problems with lost teeth and pain that can lead to weight loss and other health problems due to lack of nutrition. On the other hand, dogs with healthy mouths could still overeat, a common problem among older dogs, as they become less active and spend more time sleeping.
With any dog, putting more effort into their health and wellbeing as they age will likely allow them to experience fewer issues and a better quality of life as they age. While most dogs should visit the veterinarian at least once per year, consider upping it to two visits and ask for a body condition check each time to check things like weight. They might also suggest changing the dog's food to one that has extra dietary support for seniors or to help treat specific conditions like heart or kidney disease. While they might not be as active as they once were, senior dogs benefit significantly from regular exercise and entertainment as long as they aren't pushed past their limits.
