|
|
|
Different breeds of dog age at different rates, and average life-spans vary just as much. The overall variables that affect rates of aging include breed, environment and the nature of the care they received over the course of their life.
|
|  |
|
When we talk in dog years, once counts for 7 or 8 human years. Many of us middle aged humans are more than a little depressed to learn that age 7 is considered the starting point for old age in dogs. Some dogs seem and act young for much longer than that - my last golden retriever was still very much the puppy when she died at 14 from cancer - and so relying on a personality shift is a poor way to judge the age, and related nutritional needs, of your dog.
On average a small to medium sized dog who has no major health problems, has lived a well loved and cared for life, and has had regular veterinary care should live to be between 12 and 16 years old. A large or giant breed dog that lives with the same good conditions can only be expected to live approximately 10 to 13 years old. In either case there is a lot you can do for the comfort and quality of life experienced by your older dog.
One reason dogs slow down naturally with age is joint pain. Going up stairs or hopping up onto beds or into cars can become an unwelcome and painful experience. Consider purchasing a small ramp for your dog if they travel with you often, or have a bed or favorite place up some steps. If your older dog is used to sleeping upstairs, but that's the only time they need to use stairs, you could consider setting up a bed on the main living level of your home - they may not like it right away, but if they get used to it they certainly won't miss the pain.
Many common problems associated with old age can be difficult to deal with for both pet and owner. Common issues include arthritis, cancer, heart disease, hypothyroidism, and senility. These problems seem to be becoming increasingly prevalent in the pet population at large, but it is unclear at this point whether this is a result of an increase in disease or a natural statistical fluctuation resulting from the fact that dogs are living longer, healthier lives in general.
The best thing you can do for your aging dog is to bring them to the vet often. Plan with your veterinarian to start screening for problems after the age of seven. Annual blood work and other common diagnostics could be the difference between finding a problem early, and finding out a problem too late.
|
|
|
| Basic Dog Health |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
| Adult Dog Care |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
