Dogs age in a different way from humans. The recommended way for figuring out if a dog is actually old is to multiply their age in years by seven. There is no fixed formula however as different dog breeds age in a different way. For example breeds of large dogs might reach their senior age when they are 7 years old while poodles may reach the same period when they 13 years old.
What would be the things that you would notice when your dog starts aging? Here are a few examples of what you should expect:
1. Slowing Down- Just as in humans when dogs start to grow old they become less active. Observe the manner in which they get up, lie down, walk, or run. An old dog would show some hesitation and even stiffness in the legs and the whole body. Arthritis is very common in dogs especially those that belong to very large breeds like Great Danes. It can attack any joint of the body but is usually found in the legs and neck. If you notice your dogs slowing down then consult your vet for old dog arthritis treatment. Hypothyroidism is another common reason for dogs to slow down.
2. Graying- As in humans the hairs found on the body of the dogs will change color as they grow old. You would notice the hair on their face growing gray and this usually happens in their middle age which is somewhere in their fifth or sixth year.
3. Deafness- Dogs can start to lose their hearing just like humans. When you start noticing that they do not wake up easily because of noise or they get started easily when you walk up to them from behind then that is a sure indicator that they are staring to lose their sense of hearing. You should bring them to the vet right away to determine if that is caused by old age or infection.
4. Cloudy Eyes- As they age the eyes of your dogs may show a bluish and cloudy covering. It will not affect their vision but it is a sure sign of aging. Bring them to vet to distinguish it from cataract which does affect the vision.
5. Muscle Loss- Mild muscle loss will occur with aging so you better be on the lookout for any signs of this as it will affect the movements of your dog drastically. At the first sign of muscle loss on dogs take them to the vet.
When it comes to old dog arthritis treatment you better consult your doctor for the best way to help your pet. Degenerative diseases of the joint can be helped with the use of surgery so it would help to diagnose the condition much earlier. There are several drugs that are available that can help relieve and even remove the pain caused by arthritis. These drugs should only be administered as prescribed by the veterinarian. Never use over the counter pain killers for your dogs with out expert medical advice as it might endanger the life of your pet.