An overview of the most common diseases of older dogs

When talking about old dog diseases, it’s always good to ask the question, “What exactly is an old dog?” After all, some ailments are much better known as old dog diseases than others.

Depending on the breed, the meaning of “old” can vary, but it usually starts around 10 years of age. As a dog ages, his behavior also changes. The signs of aging in a dog are very similar to those in humans. For example, older dogs have reduced energy levels. They sleep more, have less enthusiasm for energetic activities, and just don’t play like they used to. Older dogs also experience changes to their coat and skin (fur mats more often, wounds take longer to heal, and older dogs generally become more sensitive to extreme temperatures). And of course, older dogs experience changes in vision and hearing, making it difficult for them to move around the house at times.

Now, there are other, more serious diseases that older dogs are prone to. These include cancer, arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders, and diabetes. Let’s look at each one in more detail.

Cancer it is a tragic disease that can progress surprisingly quickly, both in people and in pets. Symptoms include abnormal growths under the skin, as well as swelling that does not go away. Cancer can also manifest itself through bleeding or bloody discharge (from the eyes, mouth, ears, or any other opening). This, combined with difficulty eating, breathing, urinating, or defecating, can be symptoms of cancer in older dogs.

Another common garlic is arthritis. Although not as life-threatening as cancer, arthritis in older dogs can be a debilitating disease that takes much of the enjoyment out of life for your pet. Symptoms include difficulty getting up, stiffness, irritability, or withdrawal. You may also notice that your older dog’s muscles are atrophying as his activity level decreases.

nephropathy it is also common among older dogs. If you notice increased thirst, urination, along with weight loss, your dog may be suffering from kidney malfunction. Vomiting and blood in the urine or stool are serious symptoms and if you notice them, contact your vet immediately. Of course, these symptoms could be caused by one of many age-old diseases of dogs, including inflammatory bowel disease or bladder stones. Again, consult a vet immediately.

Diabetes It’s common among people, but it’s also common among dogs. You may notice increased thirst and urination, weight loss, weakness, and increasing levels of lethargy and depression in a diabetic dog. Diabetes, if left untreated, can be fatal. There is no cure for canine diabetes, but it can be controlled with insulin injections.

Finally, waterfalls they are also common in older dogs. The eyes cloud over, the dog is unable to navigate around objects, and stops retrieving objects. Keep in mind, however, that all older dogs develop graying of the eyes that is due to hardening of the lens. This usually does not affect the older dog’s ability to see. However, cataracts are a more serious condition that can eventually lead to vision loss. Just like in humans, canine cataracts can be treated with surgery.

An older dog typically suffers some loss of energy and mobility, just like an elderly human. Helping your partner as he gets older means treating him with more patience and kindness. Give him more time to sleep and more time to wake up in the morning. Understand that long walks may not be as long

further. Make it easier for him to get to his food, come out when nature calls, and provide comfortable resting places.

And keep an eye out for symptoms of older canine diseases, like cancer and diabetes, to which your pet may be more susceptible. Your dog will live longer and provide you with more years of loving companionship.