When Do Dogs Become Seniors? A Guide to Aging Pets

Knowing when your dog is considered a senior is important so that you can make sure that you are giving them the best care possible as they age. Most dogs are considered seniors at around 7 years old, but this can vary depending on the size of the dog, with larger dogs aging more quickly than smaller dogs. Understanding the signs of aging can help you make the necessary changes in diet, exercise, and healthcare to help your dog live their best life.

In this evidence-based article, we'll go over the common milestones and changes that happen as dogs age and become seniors. By looking at the latest studies from veterinarians, animal behaviorists, and other experts in pet care, we'll give you a thorough understanding of the aging process so that you can recognize the signs and know what to expect, understand the unique needs of senior dogs, and learn how to be proactive in helping your dog stay healthy and happy in their later years.

Physical and Behavioral Signs of Aging in Dogs

Dog owners should be mindful of the physical and behavioral changes that come with aging. According to the American Kennel Club, physical signs of aging include cloudy or bluish eyes or difficulty seeing, bad breath, slowing down or difficulty moving around, new lumps and bumps on the body, changes in weight, and incontinence.

In terms of behavior and mental changes, older dogs tend to sleep more and may experience disorientation, decreased activity levels and interaction with family members, and increased anxiety, as noted in an article from Old Dog Haven. Meanwhile, canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS), which impacts 14-35% of dogs according to the NIH, can cause more severe symptoms such as house soiling and changes in sleep-wake cycles.

If you notice any of these signs in your aging dog, it's important to see a vet for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Catching these signs early can help you address any health problems before they get worse and make any necessary changes to your dog's care, according to MedVet. You should also look into financial aid options, as some organizations offer help with vet bills for senior pets.

How to Take Care of a Senior Dog: Lifestyle Changes and Medical Care

Aging dogs experience a decrease in metabolism, which can lead to weight gain that can worsen conditions like arthritis, says Caring for a Senior Dog: Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Happy. That's why regular exercise that's appropriate for the dog's age and condition, mental stimulation, and regular grooming are important for senior dogs.

The American Kennel Club suggests that pet parents make changes to their home, such as adding ramps, non-slip floors, and orthopedic bedding, to help their senior dogs get around more easily and comfortably. In addition, more frequent vet visits are recommended to check for common health issues that affect older dogs, including arthritis, dental disease, and cancer, according to PetMD.

Pet parents should be ready to make changes to their senior dog's lifestyle, home environment, and medical care as necessary to help ensure that their pet enjoys a healthy and happy old age.

Nutritional Requirements and Dietary Changes for Senior Dogs

In addition to the changes in their digestive systems, dogs' nutritional requirements can also change as they get older. In fact, PetMD notes that some dogs may need to switch to a senior-specific dog food as they age. Senior dog foods are formulated with different levels of protein, phosphorus, sodium, and calories to better meet the needs of older dogs.

If you do need to switch your dog to a new food, it's important to do so gradually over the course of 7 to 14 days to prevent digestive issues. According to the American Kennel Club, dog owners should work with their vet to determine the right time to switch their dog to a senior diet and the best type of food to switch to based on their dog's specific needs.

In addition to dietary changes, some supplements, such as glucosamine, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, can help senior dogs when they're recommended by a vet, according to VetriScience. These supplements can help reduce the impact of aging and support joint, eye, and overall senior health.

Breed-Specific Senior Dog Care

According to the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association (JAAHA), the age at which a dog is considered a senior can differ by as much as six years depending on the dog’s size. Small dogs are generally considered seniors at 11 years, medium-sized dogs at 10 years, large dogs at 8 years, and giant breeds at 7 years.

As noted by Blue Buffalo, this means that a Mastiff will be considered a senior citizen much earlier than a mini poodle. It also means that larger breeds are more likely to suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, which can lead to mobility issues and will require specialized care from a vet. Therefore, it’s important for dog owners to work with a vet who is familiar with their dog’s breed so that they can offer the best care possible.

While smaller dogs may not be considered seniors until they’re between 10 and 12 years old, owners of larger and giant breeds need to be on the lookout for signs of aging as early as 5 to 7 years old. By being proactive and making changes to their dog’s diet, exercise, and living situation, they can help ensure that their dog is as comfortable and mobile as possible as they age.

How to Help Senior Dogs With Mobility Issues

Older dogs may face mobility challenges for a number of reasons. According to Vetericyn, some of the most common causes of mobility issues in senior dogs are arthritis, hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, cruciate ligament injuries, and muscle atrophy. The best way to help your dog will likely involve a combination of at-home changes and professional care.

At-home changes may include using traction aids such as rugs, paw grip socks, or toe grips, installing ramps, pet steps, or stair treads to help your dog get around, and using orthopedic beds, elevated food bowls, and harnesses. You may also want to consider adjusting your dog's diet to support a healthy weight and adding supplements such as omega-3s.

According to Fear Free Happy Homes, professional care may involve the use of pain medications, joint supplements, acupuncture, laser therapy, physical therapy, and even surgical procedures such as femoral head ostectomy. It's important for dog owners to consult with their vet to come up with a plan that's tailored to their dog's specific needs so that they can help their dog overcome their mobility issues and enjoy their senior years to the fullest.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Senior Dog's Golden Years

As dogs get older, their nutritional needs may change, and it may be time to switch to a senior-specific diet. According to the Clinical Nutrition Service at Cummings School, although there is a lot of variation between dogs, there are several common changes that happen as dogs age that can impact their nutritional needs. These include a decrease in energy needs, an increase in body fat and decrease in lean body mass, and a decrease in immune and kidney function.

Senior dog foods are formulated with different levels of protein, phosphorus, sodium, and calories to support the health of older dogs. Purina says that senior dog foods should have lower fat and higher protein levels to help maintain lean muscle mass. In addition, botanical oils, omega fatty acids, glucosamine, and antioxidants can be added to senior dog foods to help support aging dogs.

Changes to diet, exercise, and the home can help ensure that senior dogs are happy, healthy, and comfortable. With the right care, understanding, and attention, dog owners can make sure that their pets have the best golden years possible.