People get old.
From babies, they become toddlers to children to being a teenager.
And it doesn't stop there.
This life stages: growth, maturity and aging, goes on.
This is also true even with animals like your pet dog.
You should be ready for this for old age brings physical, mental and emotional changes for your dogs.
You should be knowledgeable about these changes as this will help you to determine what kind of care you should give him.
If you're a newbie in taking care of senior dogs, then this article is made for you.
PHYSICAL CHANGES Skin and hair coat changes.
Same with people, old dogs may start to grow grey hairs; these can be found around the eyes.
Their hair coat may become thinner and duller.
Skin will also become thinner and will make them more prone to injury.
Fatty acid supplements may aid in bringing back the shine to the coat.
You should also bring your dog to the vet when the coat changes drastically, as this may be a sign of nutritional deficiency.
Grooming should also be done more often, giving a special attention on the anal part.
This will not only help maintain your old pal's hygiene, it will also be a bonding time for you and him.
Nails and foot pads.
Old age will result to brittle nails and thickened foot pads.
You must be careful in clipping his nails and you should do it regularly.
Teeth.
Dental diseases usually occur during old age.
Gum diseases may be prevented by a dental care program.
The program includes regular brushing, dental check ups and professional cleaning.
There are also available dog treats that can help clean your dog's teeth.
You can look for them in your neighborhood pet shops, groceries or even in your hardware store.
BEHAVIORAL CHANGES Like humans, old dogs can't easily cope with stress,.
As a result, dog behavioral problems may easily develop.
Aggression, separation anxiety and noise phobia can get worse in older dogs.
Cognitive dysfunction also occurs- this includes disorientation, restlessness at night, loss of house training abilities, decreased activity level, decreased attentiveness, and not recognizing friends or family members.
They may also show a decreased activity level-a result of old age ailment like arthritis.
Monitoring exams should be done every six months to determine whether it is normal aging or a disease.
Getting a puppy when you have a dog that is showing the signs of aging may aggravate his stress.
I suggest you get a puppy while you're dog is still in good condition.
Several behavioral techniques and playing with him might help stop his behavioral problems.
PHYSIOLOGICAL CHANGES Hearing.
This is the hardest aging sign to determine.
Other owners can only notice this when it is already severe.
One sign is he cannot follow your command because he can't hear it.
Hearing loss cannot be cured but you can learn on how to interact with him, despite his difference.
Use of lights and hand signals will be very useful in commanding your dogs.
Even though, his hearing is reduced, dogs can still sense vibration.
So a clap or stomp may help him be aware of people approaching.
Vision.
Sclerosis usually develops in dog.
It is a condition wherein the lenses of their eyes appear cloudy and will disable him to see clearly.
Optical exam should be regularly done.
Weight and diet.
Since there will be a decrease in their activity, they will also need a less calorie requirement.
Aging also results to decreased metabolism rate.
Feeding them the same amount of food as before, may result to weight gain or even obesity.
Their daily intake should have less calories, decreased fat and increased fiber.
Supplements are also recommended.
Immune system.
Naturally, when we age, the immune system also goes downhill.
It makes him more prone to different infections.
It is advised to keep your dog to be regularly vaccinated.
Older dogs experience many changes in their body functions that's why It is important to extend your utmost care and concern for your old dog.
There are many ways we can help him adapt to these changes.
Old age is the time that they need our love and care the most.
Having him checked by a veterinarian regularly will do the both of you good.