At what age does a Labrador get old?

In our life journey, Labradors are like a bright star, illuminating our daily lives with their endless vitality and loyalty. From the mischievousness of puppies to the stability and reliability of adults, they have accompanied us through countless happy times. However, the wheel of time will not stop, and one day, our Labrador companions will also enter old age. So, at what age does a Labrador enter old age? This is not just a simple age number, but also carries our deep love and concern for them. ​

Generally speaking, Labradors begin to enter old age at around 7 to 8 years old. But this is not absolute. Just as there are differences in the aging rate between human individuals, the aging process of Labradors will also be affected by many factors. Genetic factors play a key role. If its parents or family members are generally long-lived and the aging process is slow, then this Labrador is more likely to enter old age relatively late. Living environment is equally important. A Labrador living in a warm, comfortable and well-hygienic environment can often maintain vitality longer than its counterparts who have been in a harsh environment for a long time. Dietary nutrition should not be ignored. A balanced and high-quality diet can provide Labradors with sufficient energy and nutrition, which helps maintain body functions and delay aging. ​

When Labradors enter old age, a series of obvious changes will occur in their bodies. First of all, the hair. The once shiny and smooth coat begins to become rough and sparse, and the white hair gradually increases, especially around the face and mouth, as if the years have dyed them with a layer of silver frost. The skin also becomes loose, loses its former elasticity, and is prone to wrinkles and dandruff, as if it is a mark left by the years. The eyes are no longer bright and clear, and eye diseases such as cataracts may occur. The eyes become blurred and the reaction to the surrounding things is no longer so sharp. Hearing will also gradually decline. It used to run to it immediately when it heard the call, but now it may need you to get close and shout loudly before it can be noticed. ​

The decline of physical function is also reflected in athletic ability. The Labrador, which was once full of energy and always took you for a walk and play, has become less active now. They are no longer as keen on running and jumping as before, and their pace has become slower when walking. They may even be out of breath after walking a short distance and need to stop to rest. Going up and down the stairs has also become a difficult thing for them, and they may need to move carefully step by step. At this time, we should understand the changes in their bodies and no longer force them to do too intense exercise. Instead, we should choose some gentle activities, such as short slow walks, simple interactive games on soft grass, etc., so that they can maintain a certain amount of exercise within their ability. ​

In terms of behavior and personality, elderly Labradors will also change a lot. They may become more clingy and like to follow you closely, as if they are afraid that you will suddenly disappear. This is because they become more dependent on their owners in the process of aging and need to get more sense of security from their owners. At the same time, their sleep time will increase significantly, sleeping most of the day, and their sleep will become shallower, and they are easily awakened by slight noises. Some elderly Labradors may also experience cognitive dysfunction, similar to Alzheimer's disease in humans, manifested as disorientation, forgetting their familiar environment and behavioral habits, such as not being able to find their own nest at home, or suddenly not knowing where to defecate. In the face of these changes, we need to give them more patience and tolerance, just as they tolerated our busyness and negligence when they were young. ​

As owners, when we find that Labradors are entering old age, we can't help but feel a little lost and worried. We are reluctant to see them age quickly, and hope that time will pass more slowly so that we can spend more time with them. But at the same time, we must also take positive actions to provide better care for their old age. Take them to the pet hospital regularly for a comprehensive physical examination to detect and treat potential diseases in time. Adjust the diet structure, choose high-nutrition and easily digestible food suitable for elderly dogs, and supplement nutritional supplements such as joint protectors to help them maintain joint health. Create a warm, comfortable and safe environment for them at home, and lay soft mats to prevent them from slipping or getting injured.​

When we look back at the years we have spent with Labrador, from the first time it staggered into our lives to now when it is slowly getting older, every moment is full of memories. Although it has entered old age, the love and companionship it has given us have never changed. In the last stage of its life, we will use full love and care to make it feel warm and happy. We will spend every quiet afternoon with it and bathe in the sun together; we will take care of it when it is sick; we will call it softly and give it guidance when it is confused. Because it is not just a pet, but also an indispensable member of our family and our most loyal friend.