7 Dog Ageing Signs

 

Dog owners always say they wish they had held their dog more because as they look back, although their dog is only few years old, they are not small puppy anymore and the time seems to have passed so rapidly. It is common knowledge that dogs age faster than humans and you may notice certain signs when the aging process starts. What is important to note is that dogs do not all age in the same way and at the same pace. Much of the pace depends on their up keep. A properly fed, exercised, loved and well socialized dog will likely age better with a stronger body and mind. However, they do age and seeing the signs ahead of time can make the difference between a well, gracefully ageing dog or a sick ageing one.

Signs Of An Ageing Dog

Stiffening joints and arthritis. These the two most common dog ageing conditions. It is likely your dog will be less interested in joining in the fun of playing ball or going out for a run. He may seem reluctant to partake in much activity. Cold wet weather will contribute to his discomfort.

Doesn't recuperate at a normal pace. When your dog doesn't recuperate from injuries or illnesses as fast it's can be a sign his ageing years are setting in and his physical health is changing. At seven years of age the bones begin to lose density making it harder to heal. If they are already exercising less muscle is losing mass and cartilage is wearing thin. It is often at this stage that signs of arthritis begin to show. An ageing dog's immune system also weakens which is why it is so important what he is fed in young life.

Ensuring your dog has a strong immune system from the beginning and throughout his young life is a dog wellness practice that should not be ignored. Natural pet health care is the best way to ensure your dog is living on the wellness side of life to make him strong for his ageing years.

Loss of hearing. Although usually at a slow pace, loss of hearing takes place as the nerve cells begin to deteriorate. Take note if you have to call your dog more times than normal or if you find you are calling him and he is not coming at all.

Loss of Vision. At some point the eye lens becomes cloudy and although this does not cause major vision loss, sometimes cataracts can develop causing vision loss.

Cognitive Dysfunction is a common ailment of ageing dogs, which has a huge impact on their daily life and you're as a pet owner as well. Dog wellness due diligence is recognizing and properly handling this situation for your ageing dog. People he knows well will suddenly feel like strangers to him. He may also become nervous for no reason which can be a sign he has suddenly forgotten where he is.

Decreased Activity means your ageing dog's metabolic rate is slowing down. This is of course after you have checked for any injuries or physical discomfort that may also be causing less activity. There can be other reasons for this so if you notice this in your dog your need to have it checked out immediately.

Weight Gain is a common factor of an ageing dog. Senior dogs require anywhere from 30 to 40 percent fewer calories. Dog wellness practices means ensuring you switch your elderly dog to a senior appropriate diet, with the appropriate amount of calories for his age. Neglecting this practice will result in obesity. Remember that ageing dogs also exercise less so they are not able to burn the calories they used to. Amend his diet to suit is ageing lifestyle.