As dogs age, their immune systems become weaker and they are more susceptible to picking up viruses and infections. Older dogs also suffer from conditions such as arthritis, cancer and kidney disease. Different breeds have different life expectancies and they age at different rates. Large breeds reach maturity later than smaller breeds, but live shorter lives, so they also reach an elderly stage quicker. Diet and lifestyle influence the health of an elderly dog as well.
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Arthritis
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After years of use, a dog's joints become worn down. This is more pronounced in larger breeds. Friction through years of locomotion causes the joints of the hips, shoulders and knees to become loose. Once there is room for movement within the joint itself, painful displacement and friction occur. The risk of arthritis can be lessened if the dog has a diet rich in omega 3-oils, found in fish, from an early age.
Cancer
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Dogs of all breeds and ages can develop cancer, but it is more common in older dogs. According to the veterinarians Dr. Race Foster and Dr. Marty Smith of PedEducation.com, bone cancer most often occurs in large breeds, such as the St. Bernard and the Great Dane. Dog owners should pay special attention to their dogs' bodies, checking for lumps and unusual masses.
Kidney Disease
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As dogs age, their blood flow is generally reduced, meaning organs are less nourished. Reduced blood flow to the kidneys can result in diminished organ function, which in turn leads to a build-up of toxins as the filtering function becomes less efficient. Kidney weakness can lead to partial or complete incontinence. There are numerous complications that can arise from kidney disease.
Liver Disease
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A dog's liver will become less functional in old age, but if the dog has been given poor quality food throughout its life, liver problems can become more acute. Hepatitis is a risk for elderly dogs suffering from poor liver function.
Ulcers
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According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, excessive stomach acid production can cause ulcers. Depending on the location and size of the ulcer, it can be diagnosed as anything from uncomfortable for your dog to extremely painful and life threatening.
Heart Disease
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The heart weakens with age, but heart disease is more common in dogs that are overweight. As dogs age, their energy levels decrease, meaning that their fat intake should decrease accordingly. Feeding a low-fat, high-protein diet as your dog enters late adulthood can help alleviate this problem.
Inhibited Senses
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Blindness and deafness are common in old dogs. Typically both the eyes and ears deteriorate at a steady rate, leaving the dog with limited but functioning vision and hearing in old age. However, it is possible for a dog to suffer from complete blindness, deafness or both.
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