Unlock the Secret Struggles Your Aging Dog Isn’t Telling You—And How to Fix Them Before It’s Too Late
When Are Dogs Considered Seniors?
When your dog reaches senior status depends on their breed. The American Animal Hospital Association defines the senior stage as, “From the last 25% of estimated lifespan through end-of-life.” So becoming a senior depends on the expected lifespan of your dog. Small breeds generally live longer than large breeds, so they will become seniors at a later age. For giant breeds like the mastiff, they can be considered seniors at just 5 years of age!
Causes of Senior Dog Behavior Changes
There are typically two reasons for senior dogs’ behavioral changes: underlying medical conditions and cognitive dysfunction (their brain doesn’t work as well as it used to). Older dogs often have medical conditions that are the underlying cause of their behavior. For example, arthritis or joint pain can make dogs irritable and a little wary when people or other pets go to touch them. Vision or hearing loss can make them more cautious and less responsive. Kidney disease or urinary tract infections could be the reason behind their incontinence.
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