Geriatric Canine Symptoms

As a dog ages, it will have different wants, needs and requirements when it comes to health care and general well-being. However, the term "geriatric" varies from dog to dog, as different breeds age at different rates. Smaller breeds may not be considered geriatric until they are a ripe old 13 years of age; whereas a giant breed of dog is already geriatric by the time he is 7 years old. Therefore, it's important for dog owners to be aware of the signs and symptoms of aging, so they know when their canine companion has entered its golden years.

  1. Arthritis

    • Just as in humans, dogs too can suffer from arthritis. Arthritis can be seen as the muscles, bones and joints all become weakened with age.

    Changes in Fur and Skin

    • An aging dog can develop gray fur around the face and muzzle. Some dogs will also develop dry skin as they age.

    Decline in Senses

    • It is not unusual for the senses to decline in a geriatric canine. This includes a decline in hearing, taste, smell and sight. This may be seen as a slowed response to certain stimuli such as toys, food or calling the dog's name.

    Increased Sleep

    • Older dogs tend to sleep more than they may have previously. Owners may also take note that their geriatric canine is harder to wake than it may have been previously.

    Nuclear Sclerosis

    • Many owners notice that their dog seems to have developed cataracts in its old age. However, in the majority of dogs, this is actually a condition known as nuclear sclerosis. Nuclear sclerosis is a normal part of the aging process in which the lenses of the eyes become hazy or gray in appearance.

    Obesity

    • Veterinarian Douglas Brum of the Pet Place website states that because the metabolism slows down, many geriatric dogs also gain weight.

    Slowing Down

    • A general decrease in activity, as well as an overall more slow pace, will be noticed in a geriatric canine. It may take longer for the dog to go up the stairs or get out of bed.

    Slowed Metabolism

    • As a dog ages, its metabolism naturally slows down. A slower metabolism can lead to weight gain if the dog's diet is not properly adjusted to make up for the slowed metabolism.

    Weakened Immune System

    • Aging causes the dog's immune system function to decrease over time. This can result in additional health issues for the dog--including organ dysfunction, organ failure or cancer.