Health checks and detecting signs for older dogs

Ageing is a natural part of your pet’s life. You may notice they struggle to keep up, their coat becomes greyer, and they spend more time napping.

Your senior dog may also have less energy than before and start to put on weight, or even lose weight. Their hearing and sight could also start to worsen.

While some change is expected, ageing doesn’t need to equal poor health. Recognising the early signs of illness in senior dogs will help you know when medical attention is required.

Sometimes it’s hard to know what’s part of the natural ageing process versus what is more serious. If you’re in doubt, are concerned and need advice, a visit to the vet is recommended. According to PetMD, these are the signs of failing health to be aware of:

Vision loss and eye problems 

If you notice that your furry friend is cautious going outside at night, in new situations or easily startled, it could be a sign of vision loss. They may also experience discomfort in their eyes, and you may also observe redness or cloudiness.
Many dogs develop a cloudiness in their lenses, but this is normal and shouldn’t significantly impact them. Make an appointment with your vet for help with treatable eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis or cataracts. 

Increased or strained urination 

Needing to urinate more frequently or straining to urinate could be an indication of a health issue, like kidney disease or a urinary tract infection. Your vet may be able to prescribe medications or recommend dietary changes or surgery.

Bad breath and bloody gums

If you notice bad breath, bloody gums or other oral problems, these may be a result of oral disease. Other signs include swollen and inflamed gums, loose teeth and excessive drooling.

Taking care of your dog’s teeth and gums at home is the best way to stay on top of their dental hygiene. 

Lumps and bumps 

While dogs may encounter skin issues at any stage of life, it’s more common as they age. They may develop rashes, swelling, lumps, lesions, dry skin and hair loss. 

Dogs can develop lumps under the skin – called lipomas (fatty tumours) as they age. These are benign and are usually not a cause of concern. But it’s always best to have them checked as they can present similarly to more dangerous growths. Keep an eye out for lumps that are new, grow, or change in appearance.

Gaining or losing weight  

Stay vigilant for any weight loss or gain in older dogs. Underweight dogs may need a more palatable or calorific diet. Overweight or obese older dogs are more at risk of certain health complications, like heart disease, arthritis or cancer.

Senior dogs are more susceptible to certain health issues than younger pets. But with care and management older dogs can still live happy, tail-wagging lives.

Here are some common health conditions in senior dogs to be aware of:

Arthritis 

Just like humans, older dogs can be more at risk of developing arthritis, according to Blue Cross. It’s natural for older dogs to move more slowly than younger pets, but keep an eye out for stiffness or limping. Osteoarthritis is a breakdown of cartilage in the joints, which causes pain, inflammation and decreased movement.

Look out for:

• Struggling to get up after sitting or lying down.
• Limping or lameness.
• Reduced interest in running, playing or climbing.
• Difficulty squatting for the toilet.
• Irritability with petting.

While there is no cure for arthritis, there are ways to make your best friend more comfortable. Visit the vets for a physical exam, where they may recommend x-rays to take a closer look at their joints. 

Arthritis care for senior dogs may include medications or joint supplements. It’s also recommended to keep an eye on your dog’s weight, as this can contribute to already sore joints.

Obesity 

Weight gain is a risk for senior dogs as they tend to be less active than younger pups. They may also experience a decrease in metabolism too. Obesity can make other health problems worse – like arthritis. It can also increase the likelihood of heart disease.

Chat to your vet about an appropriate diet or exercise plan for your old hound.

Cancer  

As dogs age, they are more likely to develop cancer. In dogs, cancer is most common in the skin, digestive system or breast. Symptoms may show up as lumps or wounds, lethargy, loss of appetite or digestive issues. 

Contact your vet if you notice any of these symptoms. They will need to carry out more tests for diagnosis.

The treatment options for cancer in senior dogs will depend on the type of cancer they have, how far it has spread and their health in general. It could consist of surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Your vet may also recommend certain medications or palliative care options for incurable cases.

Kidney disease

Senior dogs are also at risk of developing kidney disease. This describes any condition that stops the kidneys from working as they should. Your vet could advise on ways to manage the condition – like medication or dietary factors.

Heart disease  

Sadly, heart disease can be common – especially as dogs age. There are different types of heart disease, which can have different symptoms may include:

• Coughing 
• Difficulty breathing
• Weight loss
• Tire easily
• Blue or grey-tinged gums
• Abnormal swellings
• Weakness 
• Diarrhoea 
• Fainting
• Collapse 
• Trouble sleeping

Heart disease care may involve surgery or medications that help your dog’s heart pump more effectively, normalise their heart rhythm and help remove excess fluid from their body.

Dementia 

Also known as cognitive dysfunction, dementia can cause your dog to be confused and forgetful. You may notice changes in behaviour, like appearing more anxious than normal, not able to follow commands they have been trained in (like toileting indoors), pacing and not sleeping at night.

Dementia care may include medications to help with cognitive dysfunction. You can also support your furry friend by not punishing them for accidents, sticking to a routine where you can and providing gentle exercise to keep their brain active.

Vision and hearing loss 

Older dogs can experience both sight and hearing loss. But as they adapt so well using their other senses, you may not realise until it becomes obvious. 

Signs of vision loss may include:

• Difficulty locating their food, water or toys.
• Bumping into things.
• Not making eye contact.
• Acting anxious or clingy towards you.

Symptoms of hearing loss may include:

• Ignoring your cues.
• Sleeping more soundly.
• Not being disturbed by loud noises.
• Not looking when you call their name.

Ask your family to avoid sudden loud noises that may startle your senior dog and take them to the vet to get checked over. It’s important to get them examined as even though sensory loss can be irreversible, it may be a result of an underlying health issue. 

It’s even more important to take your dog for regular check-ups in their old age. Vet trips can help to identify and investigate any signs of poor health. According to PetMD, vets recommend twice-yearly examinations for senior dogs.