Signs of Old Age in Dogs

Dogs age just like humans. The signs of aging are gradual and may vary based on the individual dog. However, smaller breeds tend to live longer and reach their senior years later than large breed dogs. Be aware of what to expect as your dog transitions from an adult dog into a senior dog.

  1. Decrease in Activity

    • One common sign of old age in dogs is a general decrease in activity. This could mean your dog is sleeping more or laying around more rather than playing with her toys or chasing squirrels in the yard.

    Slowing Down

    • In addition to a decrease in activity, the affected dog may generally slow down in all his movements. This may mean he takes longer to go up or down the stairs, or he takes longer to get up from a lying down position, and so forth. (Reference 1, 2, 3, 4)

    Arthritis

    • Just like humans, dogs can develop arthritis. Dogs with arthritis may have stiffness when they attempt to get up or they may whine or whimper due to the pain of the arthritis.

    Physical Appearance

    • It is no surprise that as a dog ages, his fur may also change. For example, dogs with paler fur―such as the golden retriever―may turn nearly white as they age. However, dogs who have darker fur may pale slightly but feature paler fur around the nose or have sprouts of white hairs found all over in their fur.

    Changes in Hearing

    • As a dog grows older, she may lose some or all of her hearing abilities. The owner may assume the dog is simply being stubborn due to his old age, but this is not necessarily the case.

    Changes in Vision

    • Changes in vision may occur in some dogs. Changes in vision can range in severity from mild to severe, causing total blindness. Also, some dogs may develop cataracts as they get older.

    Weight Gain

    • Weight gain at any age is unwanted, though as a dog ages and becomes less active―she may gain extra weight. Talk with your veterinarian to determine what dietary changes are necessary to keep yo surenior or geriatric dog's weight in check.

    Illness

    • Aging can cause the body to work less efficiently, and the immune system is not as able and ready to fight off infections or illnesses. This may mean your dog becomes ill easily or he may be affected by allergies that have worsened.