Caring For Your Aging Dog: Tips And Warning Signs To Watch For

Getting older is fraught with many unexpected challenges, even for your dog. Just like humans, dogs suffer from unique issues when they get older, from obesity and diabetes to arthritis or a loss of vitality. It can be difficult to admit your cherished best friend is slowing down, but it's vital to change the way you care for your aging dog to ensure they remain healthy and strong. Here are a few simple tips you can begin utilizing today to help improve your older dog's quality of life:

Feeding and Weight Gain

Have you noticed your aging dog has gained a few pounds, even though you've fed them the same amount and brand of food for years?

Just like their humans, a dog's metabolism and activity level begin to wind down as they get older, meaning it's important to take action to avoid the problems associated with canine obesity, which includes diabetes and arthritis.

According to PetMD, the best place to start is with a visit to your dog's veterinarian or a place like Pet Medical Center – Full Service Veterinary Care, who can tell you whether your dog is doing just fine, or could stand to lose a few pounds. If so, consider switching to a low-calorie, high-fiber food that is appropriate for your dog's age and breed.

In addition, if your dog is suffering from a chronic illness, such as arthritis or high blood pressure, your veterinarian might recommend choosing a food that provides your dog with the correct vitamins and nutrients. For example, a dog that is plagued with heart issues should be fed a food that is lower in sodium.

While adjusting your dog's diet, don't forget they also need to remain active. However, don't get disappointed when your older dog can't keep up during your morning jog and instead, plan your own exercise routine around them. Taking your dog for two or three short walks instead of one, long jog can help you both safely stay in shape!

Caring for Your Older Dog's Teeth

There is one aspect of caring for an aging dog that many well-meaning pet owners often overlook: dental care. Just like you, as your dog ages, its teeth become more susceptible to wear, breakage and gum disease. According to Pet Finder, excessive tartar on a dog's teeth can lead to an unhealthy build-up of bacteria in their bloodstream, which in turn can create several potentially life threatening health problems.

If you've never cared for your dog's teeth in the past, now is a good time to start. Brush their teeth daily, get them checked by a professional at least every six months and if your dog isn't cooperative, offer them a tartar-controlling dog treat!

Learn the Signs of Trouble

Unfortunately, despite your best efforts it's possible your dog might suffer from a serious medical crisis. This is why it's vital to learn a few of the warning signs your dog might need immediate medical attention. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, these include:

• Weight loss, strange swelling, increased thirst and sores that won't seem to heal. These are all potential signs your dog is suffering from cancer.

• Steady weight gain, lethargy, trouble standing or a hesitation to play or jump are all signs your dog might be suffering from arthritis.

• According to the AVMA, a poor appetite, vomiting and excessive coughing are all warning signs your dog might have a heart condition.

If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, or if your older dog just isn't acting normal, don't hesitate to contact their veterinarian immediately.

Caring for an older dog can mean making a lot of adjustments to your lifestyle, as well. Their food might suddenly be more expensive or your veterinarian bills could be a little more exorbitant, but all that money and time is well worth making sure your cherished pet's life is as fulfilling and amazing as possible!