Signs of Old Age

Most dogs would only live about ten years, but according to pet health insurance statistics, the average life expectancy of all dogs is 12.2 years.

If we arbitrarily assume that the fourth quarter of life is the geriatric stage, then one out of every three pet dogs is susceptible to an age-related medical condition.

The old adage "One dog year equals seven human years" is wrong and has been wrong for decades.

Signs of Old Age
As the body's metabolism slows, its systems are not as efficient as they once were. Hair turns gray and loses its natural luster. Joints stiffen and muscles lose their strength and tone.

The nervous system appears less sharp in its responses to the outside world. The senses seem less reliable, particularly eyesight and hearing.