7 Common Health Problems In Senior Dogs

7 Common Health Problems In Senior Dogs

When caring for your senior dog, you need to be aware of the risks they face. Here are the seven most common health problems in senior dogs.

Kidney Disease

The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering toxins from the body. Kidney disease is very common in older dogs and can lead to kidney failure. Varying forms of therapy are used in treatment.

Eye Issues

Eye disorders, such as cataracts and glaucoma, are common in older dogs. Early treatment is necessary to avoid blindness.

Arthritis

This degenerative condition affects the joints and is extremely common in older dogs. It is typically characterized by stiffness and pain and usually is managed with pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory medications, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments.

Dental Issues

Senior dogs often face gingivitis and other tooth and gum problems. Brushing your dog’s teeth daily now can help prevent this.

Dementia

Also known as Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, dogs can face disorientation, memory loss, and more that are linked to this degenerative disorder.

Diabetes

Diabetes is most commonly developed in dogs aged 8 and above. It is typically hereditary and certain breeds are predisposed. It’s caused by insulin production issues and is usually treated with insulin injections and diet changes.

Cancer

As with all living creatures, the older a dog becomes, the more vulnerable it is to developing cancer. Over 50% of dogs aged 10 and up will develop cancer. Early testing can really save your dog’s life!

Feature Image Source: Pixabay

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