Aging Process

Aging also allows illnesses to occur more frequently. Over that we have little control. But there are signs of aging that are similar to signs of illness, and it is important to separate the two.

Older dogs lacking mental stimulation become dull and lethargic, but lassitude or depression is one of the natural ways in which a sick dog's body responds to the stress of illness.

Never assume that changes in your dog's behavior are simply the changes of aging. If your dog's behavior changes, see your vet. As a general rule, dogs in the last third of their natural life benefit from twice-yearly medical checkups.

Increasing disorientation, changes in social relationships, and alterations in sleeping patterns are common. Many elderly dogs eventually interact less with their family, sleeping more during the day and less at night.

They get befuddled, staring into space or walking into corners. Medications for senile behavior may be beneficial. A curious phenomenon is that while neutered females become more aggressive, neutered males get less so as they grow older.