
Our senior fur babies are wonderful parts of our homes...and sometimes the best, but I am just a bit biased. Often, they are more accepting of other dogs and people in the house than younger dogs are. In addition, senior dogs often know how to behave better than young dogs do...usually! However, as a senior dog's life progresses, their behavior can and will change. This is natural part of the aging process and can happen for a variety of reasons, including age-related changes in their metabolism and mood. However, there are things you can do to help keep your senior dog living their best lives!
In this article, we will take a look at some of the most common concerns surrounding senior dog behaviors and how to work through them. Let’s dive in!
1: Senior Dog Grooming Problems
Grooming your senior dog can be a challenge, especially if you're not sure what to look out for. As our furry fur babies age, their skin, fur, and nails can become more sensitive and require more attention. With the right information and tools, however, you can make sure your senior pup is looking and feeling their best.
Here are some common senior dog grooming problems to be aware of: Skin conditions like dryness, itchiness, and flaking are more common in senior dogs; they may also be more prone to allergies or infections. The fur of a senior dog may become thinner or more brittle, making them more vulnerable to temperatures and sunlight. Additionally, their nails may become more brittle and prone to breaking or splitting.
To help your senior dog stay comfortable and healthy, make sure to regularly brush their fur and inspect their skin for any changes. Trim their nails as needed and consider using a moisturizing shampoo to help relieve itchiness or dryness. A hot spot cream or balm is also highly recommended. With proper grooming and care, you can ensure your senior fur baby is living their best life!
2: Senior Dog Bathroom Problems
For owners of senior dogs, one of the most common issues that can arise is bathroom problems. Whether it's an inability to hold it for more than a few hours, or the need to go out more often than usual, these problems can be both inconvenient and worrying. But don't worry, there are ways to help your senior pup, and it all starts with understanding why these issues can arise in the first place. Aging can bring changes to your pup's bladder and kidneys, which can mean they have a harder time holding it until they make it outside.
Additionally, arthritis and joint pain can make it difficult for them to get to the door in time. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help alleviate the issue. First, try taking your senior pup out more often – even if they don't seem to need to go – as this can help establish a regular schedule and get them used to going at specific times. You can also try providing them with easy access to their bathroom area by using mats or pads that absorb moisture and make it easier for them to reach. We have also found a lot of success with a doggie door to allow our senior fur babies to let themselves out to go.
Finally, look into supplements and other treatments that could help support their kidneys and bladder health. With a little extra care and attention, you can help your senior pup get back on track!3: Senior Dog Aggression Towards Other Animals or People
When it comes to senior dogs, aggression towards other animals or people can be a difficult issue to address. If you're the owner of a senior fur baby that exhibits this type of behavior, it can be heartbreaking and frustrating. It's important to understand that aggression is not a sign of your pet's love for you, but rather a sign that they are feeling anxious and stressed.
Fortunately, there are ways to help manage senior dog aggression towards other animals or people. First, it's important to determine the cause of the aggression. Is your dog feeling anxious due to changes in their environment? Are they in pain? Once the cause has been identified, you can begin to work on ways to reduce the aggression. Providing your pet with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation can help keep them relaxed and provide an outlet for their energy. Gently correcting aggressive behavior when it occurs can also help your pet understand what is and isn't acceptable behavior.
Additionally, providing safe spaces for your pet away from other people or animals they may be afraid of can help reduce their anxiety levels.
Lastly, if the problem persists despite your best efforts, consulting a professional dog behaviorist or veterinarian may be helpful. Your senior fur baby may just need the addition of a calming supplement or vet prescribed medicine to ease anxiety or aggression. With patience and understanding, you can help manage your senior dog's aggression towards other animals or people.4: Senior Dog Loneliness and Boredom
As our beloved senior dogs start to age, they may be more susceptible to loneliness and boredom. It's important to recognize the signs, as these negative emotions can have a major impact on their overall wellbeing.
If your senior pup is exhibiting symptoms of loneliness or boredom, there are steps you can take to help them out. Start by making sure your senior is getting plenty of exercise. Take them on regular walks and playdates with other pups. This will keep them mentally and physically stimulated, while also giving them a chance to socialize with their peers.
Additionally, provide plenty of mental stimulation with interactive toys and puzzles that challenge their minds. Other helpful solutions include providing cozy beds and blankets for comfort, as well as daily brushing sessions to promote bonding and help reduce stress levels.
With time, patience, and love, you can help your senior pup live their best life despite the loneliness and boredom they may be feeling.5: Senior Dog Separation Anxiety
As our canine companions get older, they may start to experience separation anxiety when left alone. It can be heartbreaking to watch your senior pup suffer, so it's important to understand the causes and symptoms of senior dog separation anxiety.
Senior dogs can feel anxious and overwhelmed when their humans leave the house, and may exhibit behaviors such as panting, barking, pacing, or even destructive behaviors. To help your senior pup feel more secure, try providing them with a safe space like a crate or blanket fort.
Make sure they have plenty of toys and treats to keep them occupied while you're away. Taking them on walks or engaging in playtime activities prior to leaving can also help reduce stress and provide your pup with exercise and mental stimulation.
Finally, you can talk to your vet about medications that may be beneficial for helping your pup cope with their anxiety. With a little patience and understanding, you can help ease the anxiety of your senior pup and make sure they stay happy and healthy.6: Senior Dog Dementia or Alzheimer's Disease
As the parent to a senior dog, it's essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Dementia or Alzheimer’s in older dogs is a real thing and isn’t just something we see in humans. It’s important to be informed and aware of the signs associated with the condition.
Common symptoms of senior dog dementia and Alzheimer’s include disorientation, confusion, restlessness, changes in sleeping patterns, increased anxiety, inappropriate elimination, and even changes in vocalization. If you’re noticing any of these behaviors in your pup, it’s important to consult your veterinarian right away. They can perform tests to determine if your senior pup is suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, and they can provide treatment plans that can help drastically improve their quality of life.
Additionally, there are steps you can take at home to reduce stress and help your pet cope with their condition. You can provide your senior with a comfortable bed, exercise them regularly, make sure they get plenty of mental stimulation through activities like playing games, and make sure they get enough social interaction with you and other family members.
Lastly don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet for help if you’re concerned about dementia or Alzheimer's in your senior. Taking the time to care for your senior pet’s mental health can make all the difference!
7: Senior Dog Pain or Illness
As our fur babies age, they can experience pain or illness just like humans do. It can be hard to watch and not know what to do for your senior dog.
If you think your senior dog is in pain or is ill, there are a few steps you can take to help them. First, observe your dog carefully for any changes in normal behavior. Are they moving slower than usual? Are they more hesitant to jump or play? Are they sleeping more than usual? If you notice any of these changes, you should contact your veterinarian. Your vet will be able to help diagnose your pet and offer treatment options.
Additionally, you should make sure your senior is still eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise. You may also want to consider supplements or medications that can help support your senior dog's health.
Finally, make sure to give them plenty of love and attention. Your senior dog needs lots of extra care and comfort in their golden years, and your affection can go a long way in making them feel better.
Conclusion
Signs of seniority-related changes in dogs are certainly not uncommon as our fur babies age. However, just because they get older doesn't mean that our senior pets can't enjoy a very high quality of life! If you observe any of the issues mentioned above in your senior pet, it is imperative that you contact your veterinarian immediately.
In addition, one of the issues mentioned could actually be a symptom indicating an underlying condition!
If you notice any of the following changes in your pet's behavior, regardless of age, it is important to reach out to your veterinarian for a diagnosis:
1. Difficulty with walking or staying on their feet for extended periods of time.
2. Change in eating habits - either an increase or decrease in food intake, reluctance to eat, or vomiting after eating.
3. Loss of energy, reluctance to exercise, decreased activity level, or changes in temperament.
4. Changes in sleeping habits - either more restlessness during the night or difficulty getting enough sleep.
No matter the challenge your senior fur baby might have, it is always appropriate to reach out to your vet for the best possible care!
Stay tuned as we will explore each of these issues in separate blog posts in the future! Also, please let me know if there are specific topics you would like me to cover!