Signs of Old Age in Dogs

The common signs of animal aging.

Q. I have a 14-year-old Australian Shepherd/Lab mix. He has some health issues typical of aging. His sight is somewhat compromised, he has bad breath and most worrisome are his hind legs, which seem to fold beneath him occasionally. We've had to restrict his access to the stairs at times because he can go up the stairs without incident, however, he falls when descending. He is currently on Rimadyl. My question is this: How do I know if he's in pain? My choice is not to intervene with invasive diagnostics or treatments due to his age, but I don't want him to feel anymore pain.

Dr. Jon Geller A. Your 14-year-old Aussie sounds like many other geriatric canines with dental disease, impaired vision, deafness and arthritis.

Fortunately, there are excellent treatments for osteoarthritis. In addition to non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as Rimadyl, theres a morphine-like drug called tramadol, which has minimal side effects. Prescription diets with neutraceutical additives, such as glucosamine and chondroitin can also help. Other non-prescription medications are unproven but may benefit some dogs.

Finally, a high-quality orthopedic dog bed is very important. Remember that exercise is not beneficial to dogs with arthritis, so allow your old guy to enjoy his sedentary lifestyle. Ask your veterinarian about tramadol, a prescription diet and other options.

Best,
Jon Geller, DVM

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Give us your opinion on Signs of Old Age in Dogs

Leslie - 233329 Amarillo, TX

1/1/2013 8:18:12 AM

Good information. thanks

Brad South Elgin, IL

5/25/2011 8:00:18 PM

I have a german sheperd mix with sheep dog. She is 11 yrs old. She has a hard time getting up of the floor with her hind legs. She has started breathing heavier with what i would say is a tunnel sound ? could you help

carolann dickson city, PA

2/1/2011 6:45:58 AM

i have a 14 yr old border collie my vet says she has gone deaf.how do we both adjust to this?it dosent seem to bother my border collie that much does she know she is deaf please help.

laura berlin, NH

9/6/2010 11:25:50 AM

I recently adopted a dog from someone, it was supposed to be a year old, the rabies tag suggest otherwise and that this poor girl has been bounced. she looks like a min pin, dacshhound mix. she is probably 10lbs her breath is horrid, her teeth are all brown at the top in the back ones, how can i tell roughly how old she is?i know about taking her the vet,she is going tommarrow!!! i just wanted some advice for at home.