Older Dog Health Problems

By Author: Barton Byers
Total Articles: 68
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Like all animals, because dogs age they have a tendency to develop health problems unique to
older canines. Many dog owners possess a difficult time accepting this fact and
believe that their lively dog is not an older
canine and will not have wellness
problems. Dogs may, however, show aging process as early as seven
years old. Older dog health problems generally affect larger breeds
earlier than little breeds that often show signs of aging about 10 to 12 years
old. The fact is that senior canine
health problems will eventually be considered a concern for every dog owner.

Common Health Problems Dealing with Older Dogs

All dogs are different and, depending on their size, breed and activity level,
will exhibit health problems differently. However, there are common health
issues that might manifest in all older dogs including the subsequent:

Joint and bone problems

An overall decrease in their metabolism

Trouble with their eyes as well as ears

Liver and kidney dysfunctions

Pores and skin becomes thin and ...
... fewer pliable while the layer becomes mottled and patchy

Problems with teeth and gums
In contrast to a little puppy who has an endless supply of energy, an older dog will
tend to slow down and take longer to lay lower or stand up. Instead of
bounding up the stairs your own senior dog might take each stair 1 at a
time. Your dog may develop joint disease, an inflammation of the joints
causing pain and discomfort, which is generally the cause of this slowing
down. There's a host of anti-inflammatory drugs that your veterinarian
may suggest to reduce the actual discomfort caused by joint disease.

In many cases, an older dog will have problems with their own eyes as they create
cataracts or even glaucoma. A cataract will end up obvious to the proprietor as
the eyes possess a cloudy appearance and have a tendency to reflect light. Older dogs
may also develop glaucoma, an increased amount of pressure on the eyes, and may
cause more serious issues if left untreated.

The whole circulation system and many from the major organs tend to be taxed in older
dogs. The heart, lungs, liver and kidneys all become less efficient and
the immune systems can become weak and vulnerable to viruses and bacteria.
Serious health problems may create in your senior dog as some of the symptoms
develop gradually. It's your responsibility to maintain your own older dog's
health and remain informed of the possible senior dog health problems that
commonly arise.

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