Common Health Problems in Senior Dogs
The time that we get to spend with our dogs is valuable. The frolicking puppy you brought home from the shelter just a few short years ago matures into a mellow senior in what seems like the blink of an eye. Fortunately, as veterinary medicine has improved, so has our ability to identify and manage some of the most common health conditions associated with aging in dogs.
Here are 5 senior dog diseases you should be aware of.
When is my Dog a 'Senior'?
Although the common wisdom tells us a dog’s age times 7 equals their equivalent age in human years, the truth is dogs age at different rates depending on their size. Giant breeds like Great Danes may have a life expectancy of less than 10 years, while an eight pound Chihuahua may live past 18. A more specific rule of thumb is that a dog can be considered a senior during the last quarter (25%) of his expected life span.
Tasty Tips
1. Osteoarthritis
Joint disease goes hand-in-hand with aging, as the cartilage that protects joint surfaces wears down with time. Although this process cannot be reversed, dog parents have plenty of tools at their disposal to reduce the impact of aging on joints and arthritis in dogs.
First, make sure your pet is at a healthy weight. Overweight dogs carry significantly heavier loads on their joints. This has an effect on dogs of all breeds, but is most pronounced in large breed dogs who may already have a genetic disposition to conditions such as hip dysplasia. Second, make sure your dog receives regular examinations to catch the early signs of joint disease. Familiarise yourself with the signs of joint disease, too — reluctance to climb stairs, stiffness especially in the morning, and limping, to name a few. Last but not least, ask your veterinarian about therapeutic dog food. Some dog foods are formulated specifically to improve mobility and joint health.
For the complete article on 5 Senior Dog Diseases You Need to Know, visit petMD.
Related products
Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition shown to support joint health and improve mobility
Related articles
What to Look For in Food for a Mature Dog
Learn about choosing the right dog food to help ensure your mature older dog will receive the correct balance of nutrition.
Special Diet Needs for Large & Giant-Breed Puppies
Large breeds of dogs have different nutritional needs than smaller breeds. Learn more about the specific needs of large and giant breeds.
The Advantages of Wet Dog Food
Learn how today's wet dog food blends have gotten a face lift, and how you'll provide your dog the nutrition he needs in the form he loves.
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Learn what you can feed your pregnant or nursing dog to keep her and her new pups healthy.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.