Special Needs for Older Dogs
In general, large dogs tend to age sooner than small dogs, but there are no firm rules as there is considerable variation between breeds. At the age of seven most dogs can be considered "middle aged". Just as nutritional needs changed when a puppy became an adult dog at around one year old, there are changes at around seven years that should be acknowledged by the dog's owner.
Some of the changes to look for are a lowering of the dog's general energy level, a smaller appetite, longer nap sessions or restlessness at night, and a slow deterioration in sight and hearing. Muscles and bones become weaker, the dog's skin becomes less elastic, and white hairs appear, especially around the dog's muzzle.
Weight gain is a key factor.
As the body slows down and the dog becomes less active there will be a tendency to gain weight. Keeping track of a dog's weight by weighing him every few months after the age of seven can serve as an early indicator of the best time to modify his diet and lifestyle. Adapting your dog's food to a formula especially for older dogs and perhaps adding a vitamin supplement can prevent disorders and slow down age deterioration. If you don't see a "waist" when you view your dog from above, or he's developed a slight potbelly, or you can't locate his ribcage with a light touch of your fingers, then chances are he's carrying too much fat. Controlling an older dog's weight can be crucial in preventing or treating many medical conditions of older dogs, such as arthritis, heart disease, respiratory conditions and diabetes.
Pay closer attention to changes.
It is important to adapt an older dog's lifestyle to its advancing age. Don't expect an old dog to run after you on long jogs or bike rides, or to respond to commands with the same alacrity as he did as a young dog. Be more lenient of minor behavioral lapses and don't push your dog to physical activity that leaves him exhausted.
A good bed and frequent and consistent moderate exercise - 20 or 30 minutes two or three times a day - will delay muscle and joint disabilities.
Take your dog to the vet if he has lost weight without cause, has little or no appetite, drinks more than normal, has foul breath, trouble rising and lying down, has difficulty passing urine or feces, has a cough, becomes disoriented or walks in an unbalanced manner.
Just as humans are living longer and staying healthier into advanced age, dogs are benefiting from more specific nutrition, advanced research in treatment and medicine, and of course more human awareness and concern for "man's best friend".
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