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Learn about older dog health issues and ways to helpIt is important to be aware of older dog health issues, as with care, your dog should live happily into middle and old age, which for most dogs is after about 8-10 years but this very much depends on the breed of dog. Large and medium sized breeds live to about 11-14 years, small breeds like the Dachshund can live to 15 years or older. My friend’s dachshund has just turned 16 yrs and is very much full of life, but mostly in short bursts with a sleep in between.
Signs of aging : Some older dog health issues to be aware of : Controlling weight is most important in an aging dog, remember, a slimmer dog usually lives longer. It is also easier to manage such diseases as arthritis, heart and respiratory conditions, diabetes if your dog is not over weight. Give your dog a low fat diet with limited snacks, some owners find a quality older dog food helpful to maintain the correct balanced diet. Exercise helps to control weight but with older dogs you will need to monitor the type and duration of the exercise you provide, keeping in mind your dogs energy level and physical capability. Hearing and sight problems are common older dog health conditions. Most dogs cope quite well with the problem of failing sight and hearing loss if they are in familiar surroundings, but you will need to take extra care when visiting other areas. Changes to skin and coat with skin becoming dry and less elastic with aging, also the natural oils are not produced so well, so your dog is prone to skin problems. Use suitable shampoo to soothe dry skin and brush often to stimulate oil production, and check regularly for skin irritations. Temperature changes in the temperature with season changes, affect older dogs more, so ensure you provide warm bed and bedding away from drafts, and in hot weather a cool area, cool beds are available for dogs who have problems with heat. Teeth if good dental hygiene is not practiced this can be a source of infection, smelly breathe is often a sign of gum disease. Clean your dog’s teeth regularly or provide crunchy food and chew toys or bones as these will help keep teeth and gums healthy.
Arthritis just like people, older dog health can be seriously affected by this disease. Usually shows with stiffness and loss of movement especially after resting. Have your vet check your dog, as suitable drugs are available to make your dogs life more comfortable. Ramps can help with accessing vehicles etc for badly affected dogs. Heart,lungs and kidneys often become less efficient as the aging process progresses, so ensure you get regularly vet checks for your dog, especially if your dog gets breathless easily or shows any other symptoms. Bladder control may be an issue as muscles become less efficient. Behavioral changes similar to Alzheimer’s in people some dogs develop a canine version, showing loss of interest and becoming confused in familiar situations. Some older dogs may show some aggression when teased or annoyed, which is out of character, so ensure these situations do not occur, consult your vet if you are concerned. The information given regarding older dog health is to assist owners of all dogs but especially those entering their golden years to ensure their dog enjoys as full and happy life giving pleasure to their family and providing a loving companion for many years.
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