Common Diseases in Senior Dogs
📝 Summary
In old age, a dog's organs decline, inviting disease that speeds decline. Here are common senior-dog diseases.
1 Common Diseases in Senior Dogs
1. Heart aging: an aging heart pumps less, so blood returns poorly and fluid collects in the belly and limbs (edema). Lung fluid causes cyanosis and severe wheezing—all tied to heart disease.
2. Joint shrinkage: bones and joints atrophy, causing mobility issues. Surgery is hard, long, and risky—avoid unless paralyzed; manage with medication and rehab. Overweight seniors need exercise to lighten the load.
3. Tartar and periodontal disease: shallow gum beds and mostly pointed teeth make dental disease common. Treat with cleaning and medication; prevent it.
4. Diabetes: the pancreas weakens, raising diabetes risk. If a senior eats, drinks, and urinates a lot, get it checked.
Senior eyes cloud with cataracts, so they bump into things or freeze; keep their space clear. For more, read our guide on when a dog is old.
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