Age creeps up on all of us, but a surprising number of pet parents don't realize that their dog has already reached their "senior" years as soon as 7 years old. This fact is important to remember since your dog's nutrition needs change over time, and addressing those changing health needs can help ensure your beloved furry friend can live their life to the fullest. Here are some common signs of aging to watch out for in your dog.
Physical Signs of Your Dog's Aging
It may be difficult to believe that your pet has reached old age, but unless you’re prepared for it, caring for senior dogs can be challenging. Because these age-related changes can creep up slowly, you might not realize it at first. Here are some visible clues that your dog is getting (and feeling) older:
Vision Loss and other Eye Problems
Has your dog begun bumping into things, falling uncontrollably or displayed signs of eye discomfort or redness? They may be suffering from vision loss or an eye disorder. Deteriorating eyesight is part of the normal aging process for dogs. There are, however, certain things you can do to help your dog adjust. Ask your veterinarian for tips on handling senior dogs with vision loss and to rule out treatable eye diseases such as cataracts, dry eye syndrome or conjunctivitis.
Increased/Strained Urination
Increased urination or strained urination may be an indicator of kidney disease or urinary tract infection, both of which are more commonly seen in middle-aged to older dogs. Fortunately, urinary incontinence and strained urination can often be alleviated with medication or a change in dog food. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect a problem.
Incontinence
Related to urinary issues, it’s not uncommon to see more accidents around the house as your dog gets older. Keep in mind is that these mishaps are not intentional, and your poor dog may not even have knowledge that they are having these accidents. There are a number of items you can use — such as dog diapers, belly bands, plastic sheets and pads — but the most important action you can do is consult your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause.
Other visible signs of age include:
Increased sensitivity to sounds
Increased barking/whining
A decline in grooming and overall hygiene
Increased wandering
Signs of Mental Aging in Dogs
Behavioral aging in older dogs can take many forms, but the most common signs stem from the onset of cognitive decline, confusion, a loss of energy and vision loss.
Inconsistent Sleep
One of the most obvious signs of cognitive dysfunction for senior dogs is that they will have more trouble sleeping throughout the night. Similar to humans with dementia, your dog may begin to confuse their sleep/wake cycle from day to night, wandering the house at night only to sleep throughout the day. Restlessness may also be a signal that your dog’s joints may hurt more, and so make sure to provide comfortable bedding that supports them.
Tasty Tips
Irritability
Lack of sleep, dulled senses and overall confusion can make anybody more irritable, and your senior dog is no exception. If you notice your dog getting irritable, have your veterinarian check them for underlying conditions. It may be general behavioral aging, or it could be that your dog is in pain.
Decreased Interaction
Another unfortunate result of cognitive decline in dogs involves a lack of interest and receptiveness with loved ones. It’s important to remember that this is not an indication that your pet has lost love for you. Rather, your dog may be forgetting previously learned cues and habits, along with decreased energy.
Other social signs of mental aging include:
Decreased response to commands
Increased anxiety
Confusion
Disorientation
How You Can Help Your Aging Dog
The number one thing you can do to help your dog is to simply continue to show them love and patience. Your dog might be struggling with old age, but that doesn’t mean that they stopped loving you or your affection. In fact, they may need it more than ever. Look for ways you can make life easier for your pet, whether it’s keeping their food and water bowls in the same place, providing clean, comfortable bedding or using small ramps and steps to help them get around the house.
Keep their Brain and Body Moving
Playing mentally stimulating games can help slow the progression of mental aging in your dog. Try hiding treats around your home or a puzzle toy, or reinforce commands your pet already knows. Exercise is also linked to brain health and mental wellbeing, so take your senior friend for a light walk and perhaps a little socialization. An active brain tends to be a healthy brain, and it will brighten your dog’s day as well!
Make Sure they’re Getting the Right Nutrition.
No matter what your dog looks like on the outside, it’s important to give them proper nutrition that can help fight the effects of aging. Around 7 years old, dogs should start adjusting their diet to meet their changing needs, and a senior dog food may be the best move to ensure your furry friend gets the nutrients they need.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Whole Oats & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight with Joint Support Large Breed Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs, who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Small & Mini Chicken Recipe dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Turkey & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Entrée Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small Paws 7+ dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Related articles
IVDD / Intervertebral Disc Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment & More
Learn about intervertebral disc disease in dogs, including info on which breeds commonly get IVDD, typical signs, treatment options & prevention tips.
Walking a Dog in the Rain: Tips for Promoting Activity While Keeping Dry
Learn how to make rainy day walks with your dog enjoyable for you both, including how to encourage him to get outside and wear rain gear.
Can Dogs Lie to Their Owners?
Can dogs lie to their owners? Learn what science says about these furry friends' ability to deceive their humans (and why they might actually do it).
Osteoarthritis in Dogs: Symptoms & Management
Learn from a Veterinarian: Discover the causes & symptoms of osteoarthritis in dogs, how it affects his joints and how you can help manage the disease.
Should I Worry If My Dog Twitches During Sleep?
Should I Worry If My Dog Twitches During Sleep?
Dogs & Cold Weather: How Long Can My Dog Be Outside?
Tips for the First Few Weeks with Your New Puppy
Ensure that you're meeting all of your new puppy's needs by learning typical puppy behaviors in the home.
Your Dog Ate Deodorant: What You Need to Know
Your Dog Ate Deodorant! What You Need to Know
Why Is My Dog Eating Dirt?
Dogs eating dirt: it can be a random occurrence or a regular thing, so learn what to do if you notice this behavior and if you should visit the vet.
How to Give a Dog a Pill: Helpful Tips & Methods
While getting a dog to take a pill can be tricky, learn valuable tips for helping them to take pills, liquids and other medications without a fuss.
Adopting Dogs for Seniors: Tips for Finding the Perfect Companion
Learn more about how dogs for seniors are loyal companions. They are pack animals who want nothing more than some attention, activity, and love.
Four Ways to Keep Your Adult Dog's Weight Ideal & Healthy
Obesity can cause serious canine health issues, but following these 4 steps to achieve and maintain a healthy weight for your adult dog can help.
Do Dogs Need Shoes & Booties in Summer Heat?
Discover scenarios where dogs can benefit from shoes or booties in extreme summer heat, including environmental concerns & tips for finding the right ones.
Weight Loss Goals & How Your Dog Can Help
Learn some great ways to involve your dog in your weight loss goals, including exercise & activities you can both do and healthy snacks for both of you.
Diabetes in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn from a Veterinarian: Discover underlying causes, symptoms & treatment options for diabetes in dogs, as well as which breeds are most susceptible.
Crate Training an Older Dog: What You Need to Know
Learn reasons why crate training an older dog might be a good idea, as well as an effective method for getting him comfortable and used to his new crate.
Bringing a New Dog Home: Tips for a Warm Welcome
If you're thinking about getting a new dog, discover some helpful tips to make the transition of bringing him home as seamless as possible.
All About Prey Drive in Dogs
Learn what a dog's prey drive is, how it relates to dog aggression, and how this drive can impact his ability to be trained.
Key Tips to Keep Your Puppy Fit & Healthy
Keep your new puppy in great shape by following our healthy puppy tips, including information about exercise, nutrition, and eating habits.
Grooming Suggestions for Keeping Your Dog's Coat Healthy
Your dog's coat and skin are a big part of your dog's overall health. Ensure you keep your dog's coat healthy, by following these simple tips.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.