Keeping Older Dogs Young: How to Encourage Vitality

What Are Signs of ageing to Watch For?

Older dogs exhibit many of the same signs of ageing as humans. Watch for:

• Vision loss. Cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy and sudden acquired retinal degeneration are the most common causes for vision problems in ageing dogs. Caring for dogs with vision problems can offer a special set of challenges for the rest of the family, but certainly doesn't mean a poor quality of life.
• Oral problems. Tartar, gingivitis, and tooth and gum disease are all serious health issues for dogs. Banfield's study reported small breed dogs (including dachshunds, Yorkshire terriers, Shih Tzus, and Maltese) have the highest prevalence of dental disease. Left untreated, these issues can lead to infection, tooth loss, bone damage and oral pain. Talk to your veterinarian if your dog exhibits symptoms, such as bleeding gums or bad breath.
• Weight gain (or loss). Older dogs who are in pain tend to get less exercise, which can result in weight gain. Conversely, if you have a dog that is inexplicably losing weight, it could be the result of dental, stomach or other health issues.
• Joint pain. Arthritis in older dogs is one of the most common health problems seen by vets. It can be difficult to diagnose because dogs often show only subtle signs of the pain they are experiencing. As a pet parent, you can look for signs of arthritic pain, such as less interest in playing, caution in climbing stairs or jumping on furniture and weight gain.
• Senility. PetMD reports clinical signs of cognitive dysfunction are found in 50 percent of dogs over the age of 11. Some common signs include disorientation, anxiety, inability to follow familiar routines, lack of self-grooming and house soiling.

Want more information on signs of ageing in your dog? Check out these 'Tell Tails' (signs of ageing), a helpful system for spotting signs of ageing in older dogs. Here you can get information on the science behind ageing, as well as compare your dog's age with human years to get a better sense of where your furry friend is in his lifestage.

How Can You Help Your Dog as He Ages?

Ask your vet to help you determine what food is best for your dog as his healthcare needs change, as there are a number of foods formulated specifically for ageing or common ailments, like Hill's® Science Diet® Youthful Vitality. Youthful Vitality was formulated specifically with your ageing dog's needs in mind. It helps fight the effects of ageing to keep your dog feeling active and energetic. If also supports healthy body functions that can decline as your dog gets older.

Your dog's oral care is also something to be congnisant of as he gets older. Practicing good dental hygiene will keep your dog's mouth healthy too. If he won't let you brush his teeth, there are speak to your vet or your dogs groomer about ways to help.

Caring for older dogs means keeping an eye out for any behavioural changes. If you notice changes such as your dog being more aggressive, a loss in appetite, or drinking more frequently call your vet to get their expert opinion. Any change in your dog's regular routine might be a sign of a serious health issue that, if you're able to catch quickly, can be treated before it spirals into something more serious. That's why regular checkups have always been essential to your pet's health, and now, as your dog enters his later years, are even more important. Age-related symptoms can be subtle. Increasing routine exams to twice a year can help your vet establish a baseline so they recognise quickly when a pet is not well.

Consider your dog's comfort as he gets up in years. Regular exercise—like walks, fetch and indoor play—help keep the extra pounds off and can slow degeneration of joints. Make sure to always have water available, and if your dog seems tired, give him a rest. Non-slip rugs might help a dog that's afraid of sliding on a slippery wood floor. A portable ramp can help him into the car. An orthopaedic dog bed can give his aching body a much-needed rest.

To keep your dog's brain sharp, enroll in a class together (you can teach an old dog new tricks!), give him "food puzzles," or start a game of hide-and-seek with his treats.

Finally, give him lots of love. You and your dog have always enjoyed cuddling sessions, but now they're more important to your dog than ever. Just because a dog has lived a long life, doesn't mean he can't live a longer, more enjoyable life. With proper care and attention, your dog can continue to live a vibrant life in his older years.