Typical health issues as your dog gets older

As dogs get older, it's normal for them to slow down and for their needs to change. However, many signs that owners assume are simply part of ageing can actually be caused by treatable health conditions. 

Understanding the most common health problems in older dogs, knowing what changes to look out for and making a few adjustments to their daily routine can all help your dog stay happy, healthy and comfortable for longer.

Common health problems in older dogs

Physical changes

You may begin to notice that your dog is slowing down, is less active or takes a little longer to get up after resting. While these can be natural signs of ageing, they can also indicate an underlying health condition, such as arthritis.

One of the most common conditions in senior dogs, arthritis causes stiffness, joint pain and reduced mobility. It's important to speak to your vet if you notice changes like these. Arthritis can often be managed to reduce pain and improve your dog’s mobility.

Hearing and vision loss

As dogs age, their hearing and eyesight can gradually decline, sometimes resulting in partial deafness or vision loss. Once your vet has ruled out any underlying health problems, you may need to make small adjustments at home to help your dog navigate safely and comfortably.

It's also important to teach children and other family members how to interact gently with a dog whose hearing or vision is no longer as sharp as it once was.

Heart and kidney disease

Heart and kidney function can deteriorate as dogs get older, sometimes leading to conditions such as heart disease or kidney disease.

If your dog develops a cough, struggles to exercise, has difficulty breathing, collapses or experiences unexplained vomiting, these could be signs of heart disease and should be assessed by a vet as soon as possible.

Likewise, increased thirst, drinking more than usual or frequent urination can all be signs of kidney disease. Early diagnosis often gives the best chance of managing these conditions successfully.

Canine cognitive dysfunction (dog dementia)

Like people, dogs can experience age-related cognitive decline. Known as canine cognitive dysfunction, this condition can affect memory, awareness and behaviour. Signs may include confusion, disorientation, pacing, staring into space, changes to sleeping patterns, unexplained barking or whining, getting lost in familiar surroundings or toileting accidents in the house.

As these symptoms can also be linked to other health conditions, it's important to arrange a veterinary examination.

Cancer

As dogs age, they’re more likely to develop lumps and bumps. Fortunately, not every lump is cancerous, but the risk of cancer does increase with age. Any new lump or swelling should be checked by your vet. Regular health checks can also help identify tumours that may not be obvious during day-to-day life.

Many health conditions affecting older dogs can be managed successfully with medication, dietary changes, exercise and regular veterinary care.

Tips for caring for an older dog

Alongside recognising the signs of illness, there are also practical ways you can support your dog's health and wellbeing as they age.

Watch for changes

One of the most important aspects of caring for a senior dog is noticing when something changes. Never assume that a significant difference is simply due to old age.

Changes in behaviour, activity levels, appetite, drinking habits, weight, mobility or even your dog's usual smell can all indicate an underlying health problem. If you notice anything unusual, arrange a check-up with your vet.

Manage your dog's diet

As dogs become less active, they may need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Continuing to feed the same amount as when they were younger can lead to weight gain, increasing the risk of obesity and putting extra strain on joints and organs.

Your vet can advise on your dog's ideal weight and whether a senior dog food would be beneficial. Regularly monitoring your dog's body condition can also help you spot gradual weight loss or gain.

A change in appetite is another important sign that something may be wrong. If your dog's eating habits change noticeably, it's worth booking a veterinary appointment.

Keep your older dog active

Regular exercise remains important throughout your dog's life, but it may need to be adapted as they get older. Healthy senior dogs often enjoy the same activities they always have, while dogs with conditions such as arthritis may benefit from shorter, more frequent walks that help keep their joints mobile without overexertion.

Your vet can recommend an exercise routine that's appropriate for your dog's age, fitness and overall health.

Schedule regular veterinary check-ups

Routine veterinary examinations become increasingly important as dogs age. Regular health checks can help detect problems before they become more serious, allowing treatment to begin as early as possible.

Your vet can also monitor your dog's weight, mobility, heart health, kidney function and any ongoing medical conditions, helping your dog maintain a good quality of life for as long as possible.

Consider lifetime pet insurance

As dogs get older, they're more likely to develop long-term health conditions that require ongoing treatment and monitoring.

Taking out lifetime pet insurance while your dog is younger means you're less likely to be caught out by rules relating to pre-existing conditions, which typically aren’t covered by a new policy.

Lifetime dog insurance can help towards many veterinary costs, helping ensure your dog can continue to receive the care they need throughout later life.

Growing older doesn't have to mean a poorer quality of life. With regular veterinary care, a healthy lifestyle and prompt attention to any changes in their health or behaviour, many senior dogs continue to enjoy happy, active lives well into their later years.

Want to know more about our insurance policies? From multi-pet cover to lifetime pet insurance, we offer a range of options for dogs, including older dogs.