What health problems do elderly dogs often have

Time passes quietly. The furry friend that used to be full of energy and always wag its tail to greet you has unknowingly entered its old age. Looking at their gradually slower steps and ears that are no longer so sensitive, as owners, our hearts are filled with distress and worry. An old dog is like an old friend in our lives. With the passage of time, the functions of various organs in their bodies gradually decline, and they will face various health problems. Understanding these common health problems is not only to give them more professional care but also our affectionate response to this long-term companionship.

Joint problems are one of the most common health troubles for old dogs. As they age, the joint cartilage of dogs gradually wears out, and the secretion of joint fluid decreases, making them prone to diseases such as arthritis and hip dysplasia. Dogs that used to love running and jumping start to move slowly. They will be cautious when going up and down the stairs and may even limp. Sometimes they are reluctant to get up and move due to pain and curl up in a corner. When you touch their joint areas, you may feel obvious swelling and heat. Watching the once lively partner suffer from joint pain, the owner's heart will also be in pain. To relieve the dog's joint pain, the owner can, under the guidance of a veterinarian, supplement the dog with joint health products, such as nutritional agents containing glucosamine and chondroitin, to help repair the damaged joint cartilage. At the same time, provide the dog with a soft and comfortable mat to prevent them from sleeping directly on the cold and hard ground, reducing the pressure on the joints. Appropriate exercise is also important. For example, take the dog for a short walk every day to promote joint blood circulation, but avoid excessive exercise that may increase the burden on the joints.

Dental problems are also very common in old dogs. During the long-term eating process, food residues will adhere to the surface of the teeth, forming dental plaque and tartar, leading to gingivitis, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. Old dogs may eat less due to tooth pain, resulting in a decreased appetite and weight loss. When the owner gets close to them, a noticeable bad breath may be smelled. Imagine that the little guy that used to love kissing you with its wet mouth now dares not get close because of dental problems. How sad that must be. To prevent and improve the dog's dental problems, the owner needs to cultivate the habit of brushing the dog's teeth from an early age. For old dogs that already have dental problems, they can be taken to a pet hospital for professional treatments such as teeth cleaning. In daily life, choose dog food and snacks suitable for old dogs, avoid hard foods that may damage the teeth, and you can also provide the dog with some chew toys to help clean the teeth.

The cardiovascular system of old dogs will also have various problems as they age. The gradual decline of heart function may lead to diseases such as heart failure and arrhythmia. Dogs will show symptoms such as rapid breathing and exercise intolerance. They will be out of breath after a little activity, and there may even be abnormal breathing sounds when they are resting. Their mental state will also deteriorate. They will become less interested in playing and always feel drowsy. Watching the once energetic dog troubled by cardiovascular diseases, the owner often feels helpless and anxious. Regularly taking the dog to the pet hospital for physical examinations, including echocardiogram examinations and electrocardiogram examinations, can detect cardiovascular problems in a timely manner. In terms of diet, control the dog's salt intake to avoid increasing the burden on the heart, and choose low-salt and easily digestible foods. At the same time, according to the veterinarian's advice, some heart-protecting medications may need to be given to the dog to maintain heart function.

Urinary system diseases are also common health problems for old dogs. The decline of kidney function weakens its ability to filter and excrete waste, making it prone to kidney failure. Dogs will show symptoms such as increased drinking and urination. The frequency of urination will increase significantly, and the color of the urine may also change. In severe cases, symptoms such as loss of appetite, vomiting, and dehydration will also occur. Watching the dog gradually lose weight and become listless due to urinary system diseases, the owner's heart aches like being pricked by a needle. To protect the urinary system health of old dogs, ensure they have sufficient water intake to promote urine excretion and reduce the accumulation of waste in the kidneys. Regularly conduct urine tests to detect potential problems in a timely manner. If the dog already has a urinary system disease, it is necessary to follow the veterinarian's treatment plan and carry out corresponding drug treatment and dietary adjustment.

In addition to the diseases of the above body organs, old dogs may also face cognitive dysfunction, which is commonly known as "senile dementia." They will show symptoms such as memory loss and loss of direction. They often get lost at home and cannot find their nests. Their originally regular living habits will also be disrupted, and they will sleep during the day and be restless at night. They will become slow to respond to the owner's call, and the once intimate interaction will gradually decrease. This change in mental state makes the owner feel both sad and helpless. Although there is currently no complete cure for senile dementia, the owner can increase interaction with the dog, such as playing some simple games and conducting training, to stimulate the dog's brain. Providing the dog with a familiar and stable living environment and reducing the pressure brought by environmental changes are also helpful for delaying the decline of cognitive function.

The health problems of old dogs touch the hearts of every owner. They accompany us throughout their lives and bring us endless joy and warmth. When they enter old age and have various physical problems, we should use patience, love, and professional knowledge to give them the best care. Every careful observation, every timely treatment, and every warm company are our cherishing and feedback for this deep affection. May we all take good care of these lovely furry friends, so that in the last stage of their lives, they can still feel full of love and care and spend a happy old age.