Though there isn't a specific guideline for what is considered middle age among dogs, it is typically between age three and age six, but varies greatly by breed and size. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), a dog under 20 pounds transitions to senior status at age seven, whereas a dog weighing 51 to 90 pounds becomes a senior at age six. During middle age, dogs can face numerous diseases ranging from dental disease to cancer.
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Background
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The types of diseases that affect middle-aged dogs vary widely by breed. Read up on your dog's breed to familiarize yourself with diseases common to your breed. The health of middle-aged dogs frequently starts to deteriorate, affecting the eyes, teeth and ears. However, three diseases that commonly occur during middle age are diabetes, cancer and degenerative joint disease.
Diabetes
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Older dogs, overweight dogs and large breeds are most susceptible to diabetes; however, the most common cause of diabetes is heredity. There are two types of diabetes that affect dogs: diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus. Diabetes insipidus is the lack of the hormone vasopressin, which typically works to control water absorption in the kidney. Diabetes mellitus is an insulin deficiency, meaning the dog's body does not metabolize sugar properly. This second type is the most common type of diabetes and is further broken down into Type 1, which occurs younger in the dog's life, and Type 2, which occurs in older dogs. Both types of diabetes can be managed with specialized diets and, in some cases, medication like insulin injections.
Cancer
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Just like in humans, cancer can affect dogs' skin, bones or organs. In addition, there are many different types of cancers such as lung cancer or stomach cancer. The different types of cancer are broken down into two classification based on their point of origin. Carcinomas originate from the gastrointestinal system, and sarcomas originate from the skin, musculoskeletal system, the heart, blood and fat. Veterinary oncology is a growing field, and many options are available, including surgery, medication and chemotherapy. A middle-aged dog who has a suspicious lump will undergo a biopsy to determine the type of cancer---or if the lump is benign---and the grade and stage of the cancer. From there, a veterinary oncologist will help determine the next steps appropriate for your middle-aged dog.
Degenerative Joint Disease
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Degenerative Joint Disease is also known as osteoarthritis, which is the deterioration of the cartilage surrounding the joints. While arthritis is an inflammation of the joints, osteoarthritis is chronic. This degeneration is progressive and permanent. Middle-aged dogs can experience the onset of this degeneration. Though there are no specific causes, dogs with osteoarthritis will display symptoms such as lameness or stiffness or will have a decrease in activity. Unfortunately, there is no cure for osteoarthritis. Dogs who suffer from the disease can sometimes undergo surgery to lessen its progression. However, the pain and symptoms can be managed through physical therapy and medication.
Prevention
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Schedule annual checkups with your dog's vet. In addition to monitoring your dog's overall health, your vet can help spot mobility issues or changes in vision or hearing that you might not notice.
Exercise every day. Go for a walk every day for at least 30 minutes. Take your dog for a romp at the dog park; many parks have separate areas for older dogs. If your dog suffers from joint-related problems, find a place for your dog to swim. Just like in humans, daily exercise can help prevent many age-related diseases.
Switch your aging pet to a dog food formulated for adult dogs. Consider discussing your dog's diet with your vet; she might recommend preventative supplements for diseases common in your dog's breed.
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