Common problems faced by elderly dogs

Elderly dogs are prone to face many problems. These problems should be detected at the early stage and should be treated by a professional doctor. These problems include:

Arthritis

People can easily recognize arthritis symptoms in their dogs, because they have seen the same things happen to humans. Dogs get to the point they cannot run and jump like they could when they were younger. An elderly pooch might have trouble leaping onto the couch or into the car. People sometimes get stairs or ramps for their dogs.
Some dog breeds have a genetic predisposition for arthritis. Overweight canines are also at increased risk of arthritis, and they suffer more when they do get the disease.
Another problem that inhibits a dog's flexibility is dysplasia of the hip or other joint. Certain breeds, especially large dogs, are particularly susceptible to this disease.

‘Leaking’

A common issue with elderly dogs is "leaking," the inability to hold urine. This incontinence is usually a result of kidney failure or a urinary-tract infection. Kidney malfunction, bladder infections, and other issues affect a dog's urinary system.

Loss of Vision or Hearing

Like elderly people even dogs experience a decline in their eyesight and hearing as they age. Glaucoma and other ocular diseases are frequently found in elderly dogs.

Heart disease

Heart disease is also common in older dogs. If your dog's heart is failing, it may experience difficulty breathing, fatigue, or even fainting. Other signs to look out for include a swollen stomach and grey or blue gums.

Problems inside the Mouth

Dogs can get cancerous growths inside their mouths, which can make it hard for them to breathe or eat. Gum diseases like gingivitis, a bacterial infection that starts in the gums and can spread to other parts of the mouth, are also common. If this condition is not treated, a dog's teeth may eventually loosen and fall out. Some veterinarians recommend regular tooth brushing and cleaning to prevent this from happening.

Cancer

Cancer can occur at any age, but it is much more common in senior dogs. They can develop cancer anywhere in the body that a human can, but the disease is often treatable. Signs and symptoms to watch out for include loss of appetite, sores, swelling, bleeding, foul odor, difficulty breathing, and lack of interest in exercise. If you suspect your pet has cancer, your veterinarian can run blood tests, perform ultrasounds, and analyze your pet's urine to come up with a diagnosis. Treatment often includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Trouble with the Brain

Dog can get cognitive dysfunction syndrome, which has symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's disease in humans. The syndrome can cause disrupted sleep patterns and housetraining lapses.