Watching your furry best friend grow older can tug at your heartstrings, but knowing what to expect makes the journey easier for both of you.
Just like people, dogs experience changes as they age, from greying muzzles to slower morning walks.
Recognizing these shifts early helps you adjust their care and keep them comfortable through their golden years.
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
Always consult your veterinarian about your dog’s specific health needs.
Slowing Down During Walks And Playtime
Your once bouncy pup might now prefer sniffing the same tree for five minutes instead of racing to the park.
Energy levels naturally decline with age, making those marathon fetch sessions a thing of the past.
Adjust by taking shorter, more frequent walks and offering gentle play options like puzzle toys that stimulate their mind without exhausting their body.
Grey Hair Around The Muzzle And Face
Silver strands appearing around your dog’s nose and eyes signal the passage of time, usually starting around age seven or eight.
Some breeds grey earlier than others, depending on genetics and coat colour.
While you cannot reverse this natural process, maintaining regular grooming keeps their coat healthy and lets you spot any skin changes that need veterinary attention.
Increased Sleep And Rest Periods
Finding your dog napping in sunbeams more often is completely normal as they age.
Senior dogs can sleep up to 18 hours daily, compared to younger dogs who snooze around 12 to 14 hours.
Support this need by providing cozy, orthopedic beds in quiet areas where they can rest undisturbed, and avoid waking them unless absolutely necessary.
Stiffness Or Difficulty Getting Up
Arthritis affects roughly 80 percent of dogs over age eight, making mornings particularly challenging.
You might notice your companion taking longer to rise after naps or hesitating before jumping onto furniture.
Help by adding ramps or steps to favourite spots, keeping them at a healthy weight, and discussing pain management options like supplements or medications with your vet.
Changes In Appetite Or Eating Habits
Older dogs may become pickier eaters or lose interest in meals they once devoured enthusiastically.
Dental problems, reduced sense of smell, or digestive changes often cause these shifts.
Switch to senior specific food formulas that are easier to digest, warm their meals slightly to enhance aroma, and schedule regular dental checkups to catch tooth issues early.
Confusion Or Disorientation At Times
Canine cognitive dysfunction affects about one in three dogs over age 11, similar to dementia in humans.
Your dog might forget familiar routes during walks, stare at walls, or seem lost in their own home.
Create a consistent routine, keep furniture in the same spots, use night lights for evening navigation, and ask your vet about brain supporting supplements.
