Senior Care

No dog owner wants to think about putting a dog to sleep, but it’s a decision that you may find yourself making towards the end of your dog’s life. Although heart breaking, dog euthanasia is sometimes the kindest option for your canine companion. It’s never easy having to put your dog to sleep, but planning in advance and doing your research before the sad day arrives may help you be prepared and understand it all a little better.

Cherry eye in dogs can appear very alarming, as a red, angry looking lump develops in the corner of your dog’s eye – many say that this looks a bit like a cherry. The condition usually requires surgery, but the good news is that it’s usually very treatable and with speedy veterinary help, your four-legged friend will be on the road to recovery in no time. Keep reading to find out what cherry eye is and the treatment options available.

As a dog parent, it may not ever cross your mind to think about whether or not they lose their teeth. However, dogs can lose their teeth, and sometimes this can be a cause for concern. Carry on reading to find out everything you need to know about dog teeth, what to do when they fall out and more. Do dogs lose their teeth? Yes. Like their human counterparts, puppies grow a set of baby teeth, which eventually fall out. Baby teeth are pointed and sharp, known by many owners as ‘needle teeth’. Losing these baby teeth is a normal part of puppy development, however, if adult dogs lose teeth, it can be a cause for concern. Senior dog tooth fell out. What should you do? If your older dog has just lost a tooth, make sure you call your vet for an appointment. Although not essential, bringing the tooth with you will help your vet determine if the tooth is complete, or if there may be some root remaining under the gum. This is more common if the tooth loss is related to trauma to the mouth. Other reasons for tooth loss, include conditions like periodontal disease. Look out for any other unusual signs as well. This will help your vet better understand what has led to the tooth falling out but also allow them to intervene quickly if there are any signs your dog is in pain. Why is my older dog losing teeth? If you noticed a few of your dog’s teeth missing, and it isn’t due to any dental extraction or injury, then it is likely that your dog is suffering from a canine dental disease. Many gum diseases are caused by inflammation or infection of the gum tissue that surrounds the teeth. This can also affect the bone that surrounds the tooth’s root. This is termed periodontal disease and is one of the most common diseases in adult dogs. What are the symptoms of missing teeth in dogs? Often there are no obvious signs of missing teeth in dogs, and they may continue to behave as normal, even if their mouth is painful. However, here are some signs that they may show when they’re about to lose teeth or already missing some of them: Loss of appetiteDrooling all of a sudden (or more than usual)Halitosis (bad breath)Pawing at mouthDifficulty eatingEating on one side of the mouth Make sure you call your vet if you notice any of the symptoms above as they could point to conditions such as periodontal disease. How can I help my older dog from losing more of its teeth? If you notice your dog losing their teeth and they are also in pain and showing signs of distress, then you should seek advice from your vet immediately. Do not ever try to remove any loose teeth by yourself. The vet will examine your dog’s mouth and from that will be able to make some recommendations on how to proceed. If your dog has a large build-up of plaque or tartar, they may recommend that your dog has some dental work carried out under a general anaesthetic. They will clean your dog’s teeth, removing tartar with a descaling machine similar to the equipment used by a human dentist. This will help to improve your dog’s dental health and reduce the risk of further tooth loss. What is the treatment for dogs losing their teeth? All treatments depend on the cause behind your dog’s missing teeth. The vet will recommend the best solution for your furry friend. But these can include anything from teeth cleaning for mild cases of periodontal disease to canals canal treatment and a technique called root planning for more severe disease. Can I prevent my dog from losing its teeth? You can prevent your four-legged friend from losing their teeth by staying on top of dog oral care. It is best to clean your dog’s teeth at least twice a week to remove the bacteria that leads to plaque build-up. It can be tricky to start brushing your dog’s teeth, especially if they are not used to it – which is why it is one of the many things that best introduced to puppies from early in their lives. Make sure to introduce cleaning your dog’s teeth gradually, and always use vet-approved dog toothpaste and toothbrushes. Dog toothpaste comes in lots of enticing flavours such as chicken and beef to make mouthcare far more pleasant for your dog. For many dogs, a toothbrush is a bit intimidating, so you can start off with rubber ‘fingers’ designed for dog toothcare, which just slip onto your finger like a long thimble and have rubber nobbles to clean teeth and massage gums. You can start just by stroking this around the outside of your dog’s lips so they get used to the feel of it before starting to slowly build up to sliding it inside your dog’s lips with some tasty toothpaste on it. Once your dog gets used to this, you can progress to cleaning all of their teeth and even a toothbrush if that is easiest. High quality nutrition developed with Purina vets for lifelong wellbeing. Do not use human brushes in your dog’s mouth, unless your vet has said it is OK to do so. You should also avoid using human toothpaste, as this is unpleasant tasting for dogs, and it can be harmful if swallowed. Toothpaste that has been formulated specifically for dogs also comes in flavours that dogs find far more appealing than the human versions. You can also use give your dog dental chews such as Purina® DentaLife®. They have chewy, porous textures and ridged designs to help clean their teeth properly and freshen their breath. Dogs losing their teeth can be a cause for concern. If you notice your dog showing any sign of discomfort in its mouth, or you notice some teeth missing, then you should contact your vet right away. To help take care of your dog’s dental health, make sure they don’t start chewing anything hard, and ensure they get good daily oral care. That’s our guide on whether dogs lose their teeth. Check it out next.

As our furry friends age, their needs shift, and we need to adapt how we care for them. Grooming isn't just about making our dogs look good; it's a vital part of keeping them healthy and clean, especially as they reach their twilight years. Grooming gives you a chance to monitor any new lumps or bumps and is a great way to spend quality time with your dog at a time in their life when you are maybe exercising them less. But don't worry; by making a few changes, using the right approach and eating the right senior dog food, we can ensure our ageing pets stay healthy, happy and well-groomed. Grooming Routines for Senior Dogs Adjusting Frequency and Methods: The skin and coat of senior dogs can get more sensitive and dry out easily, so it's really important to adjust how often we groom them. It's not just about the number of times we groom them, but also how we do it. We need to make sure we're as gentle as possible to prevent any stress or discomfort while still being thorough. A tender touch and plenty of patience can make a world of difference. Tools and Products Suitable for Sensitive Skin: When picking out grooming tools, go for softer brushes and combs made for sensitive skin that will still be effective but avoid any potential discomfort. Grooming Your Dog with Joint Pain and Mobility Issues Techniques to Minimise Discomfort: As dogs age, long grooming sessions can become challenging or even painful – as holding certain positions while you give them a thorough grooming isn’t as easy as it used to be. Instead of doing a long thorough groom every week, do short sessions each day, focusing on a different part of the body. If you bring your dog home from a walk wet or muddy, clean them up straight away and make sure they are thoroughly dried. This is especially important for senior dogs dealing with arthritis or joint pain, and it will ensure that your dog doesn’t get matted, tangled or dirty, leading to long and potentially uncomfortable grooming sessions. Keeping on top of coat care with short more frequent grooming sessions will keep your dog’s coat in tip top condition, while not putting strain on ageing or painful joints and muscles. Positioning and Support During Grooming: It's important to find the best grooming positions that put the least amount of strain on your dog's body. While your dog may have been happy to stand for hours while you groomed them in their younger days, being able to lie down for at least some of the time can make things far easier for them now they are older, stiffer and possibly achier Often doing some of the grooming their own bed can be ideal for them – plus you can move them around without joints or bones being knocked or hurt on hard surfaces. Using pillows or supportive harnesses (if you use a grooming table) can provide extra comfort and support, making grooming a pain-free experience for your veteran dog. Senior Dog Bathing Tips Choosing the Right Shampoo for Senior Dogs: Choosing the right shampoo is super important for our older dogs. Keep an eye out for products that will still suit your dog’s coat type but that are specially made for senior dogs and that have a neutral pH balance to avoid any skin irritation. Avoid products that contain ingredients like harsh chemicals and strong fragrances. Hypoallergenic shampoos and conditioners are far better choice since they are less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Safe Bathing Practices for Dogs with Limited Mobility: Bath time can be a challenge for those with limited mobility. Taking it step by step and using non-slip mats both in the shower and in the bathroom itself, are important to prevent your dog from slipping or having to brace themselves to prevent sliding – which can put strain on ageing joints and muscles or even cause injury. A walk-in shower/bath with a handheld attachment is ideal but if you need to get use a high-sided bath, ramps can be invaluable for you both. Water should be warm but not hot as your senior dog’s skin is likely to be more sensitive to heat, and hot water can dry out skin and exacerbate any hot spots. Brushing and Coat Maintenance Gentle Brushing Techniques: Brushing an older dog is a delicate balance of being gentle and using the softest possible tools, while still getting right through their coats to detangle and keep both hair and skin healthy. A lot will depend on your dog’s coat type how you can best do that. Little and often is the best mantra here. Look on grooming your older dog as a social bonding experience: Older dogs need your love and attention as much as they ever did. They are at a time in their lives where you might be giving them less exercise and training, and so interacting with them less. Grooming and even a spot of canine massage gives you a way to spend quality time with your senior dog. Dealing with Matting and Shedding: All coated dogs get matts and tangles but the secret to keeping your dog’s coat healthy and comfortable, is to remove these tangles as soon as they start to form. This is especially important in older dogs who will find it uncomfortable to stand for long periods while you detangle them and fight with old matts. The right tools, like de-matting combs or brushes, along with grooming sprays, can make dealing with tangles far easier but nothing beats keeping on top of these. Regular maintenance is better than dealing with a tangled mess later on. Senior Dog Nail Care Signs of Overgrown Nails and Their Impact on Mobility: If your senior dog is exercising less or isn’t walking on roads or pavements as much as they used to, their nails can become overgrown. Overgrown nails are not just an aesthetic issue; they can lead to pain, joint problems, mobility issues and discomfort. Spotting the signs early on can help avoid bigger problems in the future, and checking your senior dog’s nails should be part of every grooming session. High quality nutrition developed with Purina vets for lifelong wellbeing. Tips for Trimming Nails Without Causing Pain: Trimming nails should never be a painful ordeal. Safe methods and tools, like nail grinders, can help avoid pain or discomfort. If you are not confident trimming your dog’s nails yourself, visit your veterinary practice or local groomer who will be able to help quickly and easily and may be able to show you how to do it yourself in the future. When looking after your dog's claws, ensure you have a calm environment and take your time. It’s important that you do this without any stress to your dog and if you are using nail clippers, without catching the sensitive quick that runs part of the way down the claw that will cause pain and bleeding. Using Treats During Grooming Incorporating Dog Treats to Ease Stress: Incorporating dog treats can make grooming sessions more enjoyable. Just make sure to pick treats that are good for older dogs and consider their dietary needs. Positive Reinforcement Strategies: As your dog ages, the time you spend together becomes even more precious, and grooming, while it has always been a part of your dog’s life, is the perfect way to maintain your relationship, spend quality time together, and interact in a positive, mutually fulfilling way. Coupling this with delicious treats, makes this time even more positive and reinforcing for your dog – and for you too. In conclusion, regular grooming routines are very important for keeping our senior dogs healthy and happy. Adapting our grooming routines to suit the needs of our ageing dogs isn't just a responsibility—it's a way to show how much we love and care for our lifelong pals. With a few changes and the right approach, we can help them grow old gracefully, healthily and comfortably.

Keeping your elderly dog at a healthy weight is super important. Just like us, senior dogs often get less energetic as they age and so are prone to weight gain. This may mean they don't need as much food or that they need a change of diet. Extra weight can make older dogs less active and mobile, and even worse; it is associated with health problems like osteoarthritis, diabetes, and some cancers – along with difficulties breathing, and a reluctance to exercise or play. Sudden weight loss can also be a sign of underlying health issues, so it's important to monitor your dog's weight closely. We'll discuss how to recognize the signs of weight changes in your senior dog and provide tips on how to maintain a healthy weight throughout their golden years. Understanding Weight Changes in Older Dogs Changes in Metabolism and Activity Levels in Senior Dogs As your dog gets older, several things happen that affect their metabolism. Here's how ageing slows things down: Muscle Loss: Muscle is the engine that burns calories. Sadly, as dogs age, they tend to lose muscle mass, especially if they're not as active. This means their bodies naturally burn fewer calories even when resting. Decreased Physical Activity: Older dogs often become less playful and energetic. This decline in activity level further reduces the number of calories they burn throughout the day. All these factors combined mean that senior dogs need fewer calories compared to when they were puppies, and sometimes adulthood. If they continue to eat the same amount of the same foods, those extra calories get stored as fat, leading to weight gain. Common Health Issues That Might Impact Senior Dogs Weight Keeping your senior dog at a healthy weight is crucial, but it can be tricky sometimes as they become more susceptible to certain health problems. Here's a closer look at some of the most common issues senior dogs face: ArthritisDiabetesHypothyroidismHeart DiseaseKidney Disease Arthritis The pain and stiffness from arthritis can make exercise difficult for your dog. Exercise is a great way to burn calories, so limited activity due to arthritis can make weight loss, if needed, challenging. Diabetes Managing diabetes often involves medication and a carefully controlled diet. Some pets will have lost weight by the time their diabetes is diagnosed, and will need to be helped to re-gain weight, and others may be overweight, and need to lose some weight, so veterinary guidance can be helpful on your pet’s individual weight management. Hypothyroidism This condition slows down the metabolism, making it harder for your dog to burn calories. Even with a controlled diet, weight loss can be challenging with hypothyroidism. Heart Disease Senior dogs with heart problems, specifically congestive heart failure, may not be able to tolerate very strenuous exercise, which can limit calorie burning. Kidney Disease Advanced kidney disease can sometimes affect a dog's appetite, making it difficult to control calorie intake. These health issues can definitely complicate weight management. However, it's important to remember that even small improvements in weight can make a big difference for your senior dog's health. Work with your vet to develop a safe and effective weight management plan that considers your dog's individual needs and limitations. Signs of Healthy and Unhealthy Weight Changes Healthy weight changes for older dogs happen slowly and come with positive signs. When losing weight, your dog should have more energy, look better, and gradually become slimmer. So, check these signs to find out if your elderly dog is losing weight? If your dog is gaining weight, they should eat more, look fuller, and put on weight steadily. Unhealthy weight changes are quick and often come with worrying symptoms. Rapid weight loss or weight gain in older dogs, less activity, trouble breathing, and muscle loss are all red flags. If you see any of these, it's important to see your vet right away. It's best to talk to your vet before making big changes to your dog’s diet or exercise routine. They can give you advice on getting and keeping a healthy weight for your older dog. Regular check-ups help track your dog's progress and find solutions to any problems. Role of Senior Dog Food and Weight Control As our canine companions age, their dietary needs change. Like us, senior dogs often experience a decrease in activity level, which can contribute to weight gain. To support their overall health, it's crucial to provide a diet specifically formulated for older dogs. While, on the other hand, some senior dogs might encounter weight loss due to underlying health issues. In these cases, a specialised diet designed to promote weight gain can be beneficial. To address these varying needs, there are specific senior dog food options available. By selecting the right diet for your ageing friend, you can help them maintain a healthy weight and enjoy a happy, comfortable retirement. Benefits of Senior Dog Food for Weight Management Senior dog food is formulated with the specific needs of older dogs in mind. These formulas often contain: Reduced Calories: to help maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity.Higher Quality Protein: helps maintain muscle mass and is easier to digest.Joint Supportive Ingredients: both glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can be found in senior food which can help maintain healthy cartilage and joints. Key ingredients to look for: Highly Digestible Protein Sources: chicken, fish, or turkey that are easier for senior dogs to digest.Healthy Fats: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are important for skin and coat health, as well as cognitive function. Look for foods that include sources like fish oil.Fiber: can aid digestion and help your senior dog feel fuller for longer. As your dog ages, you might find that changing their feeding schedule is more beneficial for them, feeding them smaller amounts more frequently so their digestive systems are not put under the stress of large meals. Purina’s Vet expert Adam Rampling adds "A healthy diet is vital for senior dogs. High quality, complete, senior foods are specially adapted to suit the needs of ageing dogs." Differences Between Regular and Senior Dog Food to Help Your Dog Maintain a Healthy Weight FeatureRegular Dog FoodSenior Dog FoodCalorie ContentHigherLowerProtein ContentModerate to HighHigher Quality Protein, may be higher contentFat ContentModerate to HighMay be LowerJoint Supportive IngredientsNot Typically IncludedOften Include Glucosamine Remember to always consult your vet before switching your senior dog's food. They can help you choose the right formula based on your dog's individual needs and health conditions. Exercise for Older Dogs While a dog can be considered a senior from the age of seven, many remain active and don’t require immediate adjustments to their exercise routine. However, for older dogs with mobility issues or underlying health conditions, while it’s crucial to maintain physical activity for their overall health, we must adapt their exercise regimen accordingly. Here are some fun ways to keep them active without straining their bodies: Walking Shorter, more frequent walks are often preferable to long, single outings. For dogs with limited mobility, consider using a dog stroller or a front-clip harness to provide support. Always choose flat, even terrain and avoid challenging conditions like hot pavement or slippery surfaces. Swimming This low-impact exercise is a wonderful option for senior dogs with joint pain. Hydrotherapy can help keep joints mobile. Consult your vet to find a reputable canine hydrotherapy pool near you. Gentle Play Avoid games that require sudden stops or turn (such as chasing balls or frisbees. Instead introduce low impact games such as following scents and finding hidden objects. If your dog loves tug of war games, keep these gentle, let them pull you rather than the other way round and don’t lift the toy upwards. Indoor Activities Rainy days? No problem! Enrichment games and puzzle toys with treats or "Hide the Toy" indoors are great ways to keep your dog active without going outside. Remember: Always listen to your dog. Watch for signs of fatigue like panting, lagging, or loss of interest. Take frequent breaks and offer plenty of fresh water. It's important to consult your veterinarian before starting any new exercise routine, especially if your dog has any underlying health conditions. Rapid weight loss in an old dog is often a cause for concern and requires immediate veterinary attention. They can help you create a safe and effective exercise plan tailored to your senior dog's needs and limitations. High quality nutrition developed with Purina vets for lifelong wellbeing. Benefits of Regular Vet Check-Ups for Senior Dogs Regular vet check-ups are essential for maintaining your senior dog's optimal health, including their weight. Sudden weight loss in older dogs can be a sign of an underlying health issue and should prompt an immediate visit to your vet. A professional can accurately assess your dog’s body condition, create a tailored weight management plan, and detect early signs of weight-related health problems. By working closely with your vet, you can help your senior companion achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Conclusion As our dogs age, their care requires adjustments. Veterinarian-approved senior food ensures essential nutrients, promoting healthy weight, muscle strength, and joint support. Gentle activities like walks, swimming, or playtime keep them mobile and engaged. Maintaining a healthy weight is vital, reducing stress on joints and allowing them to enjoy their golden years. Remember, regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection of any health concerns. By prioritising these simple yet vital aspects of senior dog care, we can ensure our dogs experience a long, healthy, and joyful life by our side.

As our loyal companions grow older, it's not just their faces that begin to show a touch of gray. Their needs, behaviors, and health status often begin to change too. Recognizing when your dog has transitioned into their senior years is crucial for providing them with the quality of life they deserve. But how do we know when our dogs have officially become 'seniors', and what does this mean for their care? At what age is a dog considered senior? The age at which a dog becomes a senior can vary significantly depending on their breed and size. Generally, larger breeds tend to age quicker than smaller ones. For instance, a Great Dane might be considered senior at 5-6 years old, while a Miniature Dachshund might not reach senior status until around 12 years. There's a bit of a 'how long is a piece of string?' element to it, but as a rough guideline, dogs are deemed senior when they reach the last quarter of their expected lifespan. It is important to remember however that each dog is an individual and while we all know humans who remain active and healthy well into their 80s, others begin to show the beginnings of their decline long before they have even got to retirement age. Signs of an Old Dog As dogs age, several tell-tale signs can indicate they're entering their golden years. Here's what to look out for: Loss of energy You may notice that your once energetic dog now prefers a more leisurely walk instead of an intense run in the park. As dogs age, their energy levels can decrease, and they might tire more easily. It's important to remember that this is a normal part of ageing and doesn't necessarily mean something is wrong. However, it does mean that we need to adjust our expectations and activities to match their slower pace and support their ageing muscles and joints. For many, several short walks a day are far better than one long strenuous one – and replace high energy games that involve sudden starts, stops and turns, with much gentler ones. Changes in their playtime routine You might notice that your dog isn't as excited about chasing their toys as they used to be, instead showing more interest in a relaxed exploration of their surroundings or indulging in a good sniff around. This change in preference is a part of their ageing process and indicates a shift from high-energy play to more low-key activities. It's essential to respect this change and adapt our interactions with them, offering activities that align with their new pace of life. Remember, a stroll can be just as enriching for them as a vigorous game of fetch once was. Introducing more low impact enrichment opportunities – such as sniffers, snuffle mats etc can give them mental exercise which can be as, or even more, enjoyable than a high impact game. Different sleeping patterns Just like older humans, senior dogs tend to sleep more. If you notice your dog napping more frequently during the day, it's a clear indication that it's advancing in age. While increased sleep is normal, excessive restlessness at night could be a sign of discomfort or a health issue, or even the onset of Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) so it's always worth discussing any significant changes with your vet. Understanding and accommodating these changes, and supporting them with medication and treatment where appropriate, can greatly enhance your ageing dog's quality of life. Changes in body and weight Just like us, our canine companions experience a slowdown in metabolism as they age, which can often result in weight gain. On the flip side, some older dogs might start losing weight due to various health issues. It's crucial to keep an eye on these changes, as sudden or drastic weight fluctuations could be a sign of underlying health problems. Regular vet check-ups become even more important during their senior years to ensure any potential issues are caught early and managed effectively. Changes in Behavior You might notice your dog seems less responsive – and often this can be in part due to failing hearing and/or sight, or a reluctance to move around so much due to stiffness. These behavioral changes are often a part of the natural ageing process and need to be taken into account. However, it's important to note that significant changes in behavior, especially signs of confusion or anxiety, could also be indicative of cognitive dysfunction syndrome, similar to dementia in humans. Therefore, any marked changes in your dog's behavior should be discussed with your vet to ensure your furry friend receives the best care possible during their golden years. Common diseases for senior dogs With age comes a higher risk of certain diseases. Arthritis: As dogs age, they may develop arthritis, which can lead to stiffness, difficulty moving, and discomfort. Regular gentle exercise (several short walks a day rather than one big one) and a healthy diet can help manage this condition – along with any pain medication prescribed by your vet Dental Disease: Older dogs are more prone to dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay. Regular teeth cleaning and dental check-ups can help prevent these problems. Kidney Disease: This is a common issue in senior dogs. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Regular vet check-ups can help detect kidney disease early – along with consulting with your vet as soon as possible if you see any of these symptoms. The PRO PLAN® VETERINARY DIETS NF Renal Function Dry Dog Food can help slow the progression of chronic renal insufficiency. Cancer: The risk of cancer increases with age in dogs. Regular health screenings and being aware of any unusual lumps or changes in behavior can aid in early detection. Heart Disease: Older dogs are at a higher risk of developing heart conditions. Regular vet visits and a balanced diet can help maintain heart health. Any time you see any new symptoms in your ageing dog – whether physical or behavioral, consult with your vet. Food’s Relationship with Senior Dog Care When it comes to senior dog care, their diet is paramount. A senior dog diet should be tailored to their changing needs. Food for senior dogs often has a different balance of nutrients, including more fiber and fewer calories to manage weight and support digestive health. should also be easy to chew and digest. Dog year calculator To get a better idea of your dog's age in 'dog years', you can use a dog years calculator. These handy tools give you a more nuanced understanding of your dog's age relative to human years, considering factors like breed and size. It's not as simple as multiplying by seven! Smaller breeds tend to age differently than larger breeds, and these calculators take that into account. This can help understand your dog's life stage and ensure they get the right care for their age. In conclusion, recognizing and embracing your dog's senior years can open up a new, rewarding chapter in your relationship. With the proper care, diet with the appropriate Senior Dog Food, and attention to their changing needs, you can ensure your furry friend enjoys their twilight years in comfort and happiness.

Arthritis in dogs is the biggest cause of chronic pain, particularly in older pets. With early diagnosis and appropriate management, your pet can continue to lead a happy life. Arthritis in dogs is an extremely common condition and the main cause of chronic pain in dogs. According to Canine Arthritis Management, Osteoarthritis affects an estimated four out of five older dogs, and sadly it’s progressive – meaning that it cannot be cured and gradually worsens. However, there are plenty of management options available to help slow the disease progression and alleviate the symptoms. Many dogs continue to live a happy and otherwise healthy life after diagnosis. If you suspect your senior dog has arthritis, you’ll probably be wondering about the symptoms and the current dog arthritis treatment and management options available. To help, we’ve created this guide to tell you everything you need to know about arthritis in dogs. What is arthritis in dogs? There are different types of arthritis in dogs, but usually we are referring to Osteoarthritis (OA). In a healthy joint, the bone surfaces are covered in a thin layer of smooth cartilage with a small amount of joint fluid to lubricate them – this allows them to glide over each other without friction so your dog can move freely. In a joint affected with OA, there is degeneration of the cartilage and underlying bone, leading to joint instability and pain. The process is a cycle, with these structural changes causing further inflammation and degeneration. This can also cause bone remodelling where there is new bone growth further affecting joint movement as well as weakening of the soft tissue structures around the joint – the muscles, tendons and ligaments.

As dogs get older, it can be quite common for them to develop cancer. According to? Pets Web MD, more than 50% of dogs aged over 10 years will develop cancer at some point in their lifetime, so it’s important for you to know the signs of this disease and what treatments are available. Find out everything you need to know with our guide. Just like with people, dogs can suffer from cancer, particularly as they get older. In part, this is because our dogs are living longer as a result of improved veterinary and daily care, but unfortunately, old age still comes its own problems. The good news is that when caught early, cancer is usually very treatable. Knowing what signs of cancer to look out for in dogs and understanding when to seek help from your vet can help you to catch it early. Sings of cancer in dogs

Pancreatitis in dogs can be acute or chronic and ranges in severity. Discover how to tell if your pet is suffering from this condition and what to do next. Pancreatitis is defined as inflammation of the pancreas. In this article we explain what causes pancreatitis in dogs, how it manifests and what treatment is recommended. What is dog pancreatitis? The pancreas produces enzymes involved in the digestion of protein, carbohydrate and fat within the small intestine. It also produces the hormone insulin which helps to regulate blood sugar levels after a meal. In a healthy pancreas, the digestive enzymes remain inactive until they reach the small intestine. This prevents self-digestion of the pancreatic tissue. However, in cases of pancreatitis, the enzymes are activated too soon while they are still within the pancreas. The resulting auto-digestion of the organ leads to the inflammation and pain. Pancreatitis is often categorised as acute or chronic – acute pancreatitis is when it develops suddenly, and chronic pancreatitis is when it continues over time. Individuals with chronic pancreatitis can experience acute flare-ups. What are the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs? In mild cases of pancreatitis in dogs the symptoms can be subtle and include lethargy or loss of appetite. There is overlap with many other gastrointestinal conditions, including surgical emergencies such as gut obstructions. However, during an acute episode of this condition you are likely to see some of the following symptoms:

As your dog ages their requirements change, whether that's thinking about a senior dog dietor adjusting schedules to fit around your older dog. This includes what toys they play with or activities they participate in. Your ageing friend may no longer be able to run and grab a Frisbee, or leap around playing fetch for hours on end, but that doesn’t mean that their urge to play has gone! Also consider that when dogs age, their sight and hearing may deteriorate, so when it comes to toys for older dogs it’s usually a good idea to get bright ones, which can also be scented, noisy or flavoured. Keep reading to find out the best stimulating dog toys for your older pooch. Toys for older dogs When your dog becomes older you may think that they’ll no longer want to play, or might not have the energy to play with you.

It’s not just puppies that love the excitement of training, or the emotional bonding you enjoy when they learn new skills. Adult and senior dogs can also enjoy and benefit from ongoing training, especially if life changes a bit. A well-trained older dog, for example, will make your house move a lot easier, or set an example for a puppy that has just joined the family! Senior and adult dog training allows you to strengthen your bond together, have fun, and helps your dog stay physically and mentally exercised. And once they’ve learned the basics, you might be surprised by what else you can teach them. Perhaps there is a more fun way of picking up their toys from the garden: you could teach your friend to put them in a box for you! Or why not train your older dog to fetch your slippers or find the missing TV remote? A well-trained adult dog is also a much safer dog, and they will be more fun to be around for other people. If your dog gets overexcited in public or when a visitor calls it can cause a bit of a scene, but with a little training your dog will be the best-behaved person in the room! Almost every dog can be taught basic obedience and much, much more, regardless of type of breed, experience or age.

Sometimes older dogs might undergo behavioural changes that seem unusual or a little more noticeable than just ‘slowing down’. Until recently, experts had attributed these things to the aging process, about which little can be done. More recently, however, unusual changes in older dogs have been attributed to a disorder called Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS). Symptoms of cognitive dysfunction in dogs Examples of behavioural changes include a ‘confused’ dog that appears disorientated or lost in familiar surroundings, dogs wandering around aimlessly, and perhaps appearing to 'forget' to back out of corners.