Diseases to Look Out for in Old Age Dogs

Diseases to Look Out for in Old Age Dogs

By Dr Holly Anne Hills MRCVS 

As dogs get older, it’s natural for their bodies to change and for them to slow down just in the same way that elderly people do. And it’s totally natural to worry more about our elderly pet’s health. Sometimes this can be a normal part of the ageing process, but with age also comes an increased chance of dogs developing certain health issues that need treating to make them more comfortable. So, let’s go through some of the most common and important signs of ageing that might indicate a health issue and some common diseases of old age dogs. 

Signs of Illness in Old Age Dogs

 Here are some common signs of illness in older dogs. If you notice any of these, especially if they appear suddenly or get worse over time, it’s important to schedule a check up at the vets.

 Changes in Appetite or Weight Loss

• Eating more or less
• Sudden weight loss/gain
• Difficulty chewing
• Changes in food preference

 Lethargy or Reduced Activity

• Less interest in walks and play
• Sleeping more than usual
• General weakness or fatigue

 Behavioral Changes

• Confusion or disorientation
• Increased anxiety
• Sudden aggression

 Changes in Toilet Habits

• Urinating or defecating indoors
• Frequent urination
• Straining, diarrhea, or constipation
• Incontinence

 Mobility Changes

• Stiffness, limping
• Reluctance to jump/climb stairs
• Muscle loss 

 Breathing Issues

• Coughing, wheezing, or shallow breathing
• Labored or noisy breathing
• Coughing
• Excessive panting

 Changes in Skin or Coat

• Dull, dry, or thinning fur
• Excessive shedding
• Lumps

 Bad Breath or Dental Problems

• Foul-smelling breath
• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
• Loose or missing teeth
• Sore/red gums

 Vision or Hearing Loss

• Bumping into furniture
• Not responding to commands or loud noises
• Cloudiness in the eyes

Increased Thirst or Urination

Common Diseases of Old Age Dogs

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common diseases in elderly dogs, and is a progressive condition where the cartilage in joints wears down over time. This leads to inflammation, pain, reduced mobility, and stiffness. Some breeds are more susceptible than others, due to their conformation and genetic predisposition to joint diseases such as elbow and hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease. Injuries and obesity can also increase the risk of arthritis.  

Symptoms - limping, stiffness, difficulty rising, reluctance to jump/climb stairs, reduced activity levels, pain when touched in certain areas, muscle loss 

Management - many dogs require medication to treat inflammation and pain, and your vet can talk you through the options available. Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy have also been proven to be useful by helping to build muscle and keep the joints moving. Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin are also well proven to help dogs with joint disease. 

 

2. Chronic kidney disease

 Chronic Kidney Disease is a progressive, irreversible condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste from the blood and maintain fluid, electrolyte, and hormone balance. It’s quite common in older dogs, and it often develops slowly over time. When the kidneys don’t function properly, toxins build up in the blood, and many body systems are affected, but most commonly this is related to changes in blood pressure.

Chronic kidney disease can be diagnosed with blood testing, urine sample, and blood pressure measurements, and requires ongoing supportive treatment and a special kidney support diet.

Symptoms - Increased thirst and urination, reduced appetite, weight loss, vomiting, lethargy, dehydration and poor coat condition

 

3. Dental Disease

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in older dogs, caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar —and it often worsens with age if left untreated. In seniors, it can contribute to pain, infection, tooth loss, and even generalised illness.

It can be caused by a lack of routine dental care such as brushing, age, diet, and some breeds can be more prone such as toy breeds including Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas.

A dental procedure might be required at the vets to fully examine the mouth, take x-rays, scale and polish the teeth, and remove any that are loose or broken.

Symptoms - smelly breath, tartar, red/sore gums, bleeding gums, difficulty chewing, dropping food, pawing at the mouth, excessive drooling, loose or missing teeth,  facial swelling

You can prevent disease with regular brushing, dental chews and treats, and some other products such as oral washes and supplements. You should get your dog's teeth checked regularly by their vet and treat any issues before they become painful.

 

4. Cancer

Cancer is common in older dogs and the risk of developing cancer increases with age. Early detection and treatment can help manage the disease and improve quality of life, so it's important to recognize the warning signs. There are so many different types of cancer, so there can be a huge range of symptoms, and treatment will always depend on the type of cancer and stage.

General Symptoms - lumps/bumps, unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite, lethargy, weakness, coughing, laboured breathing, bleeding/discharge, pain, changes in toilet habits, lameness, behavioural changes

Diagnosis - a clinical exam is always done first, but other tests can include blood tests, x-rays, ultrasound, advanced imaging such as MRI or CT, biopsy or fine needle aspirates

 

5. Heart Disease

Heart disease can develop at any age, but is more common in older dogs. Left untreated, heart disease can affect overall health and quality of life, but with early diagnosis and proper management many dogs can live comfortably for many years. There are some breeds that are predisposed to heart disease, including Cavalier’s, Chihuahuas, Doberman’s and Boxers. 

Symptoms - cough, exercise intolerance, lethargy, collapse or fainting, pale gums, shallow rapid breathing, panting excessively

Heart disease can be diagnosed on a clinical exam by hearing abnormalities with a stethoscope, but ultrasound and x-ray are required to properly diagnose and stage the disease, and to guide treatment. Medication is usually required, and regular vet checks to prevent progression to congestive heart failure. 

 

6. Liver Disease

Liver disease is a common disease in older dogs. The liver plays a vital role in many processes, including detoxifying the body, producing bile, regulating metabolism, and filtering blood. As dogs age, their liver may become more susceptible to diseases and degeneration, and it can be caused by chronic infections, genetics, toxins or Cushing’s disease. It can usually be diagnosed with blood testing and ultrasound scans. Treatment is usually supportive long term, and includes supplements to support liver function.

Symptoms - reduced appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased thirst and urination, jaundice, lethargy, bloated abdomen, smelly breath

 

7. Cognitive Dysfunction

Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is a neurodegenerative disorder in senior dogs, similar to Alzheimer’s in humans. It affects a dog's memory, learning ability, and awareness, leading to behavioral changes and a decline in quality of life. It’s caused by age related changes in the brain, and signs often develop very slowly over time. Unfortunately, there are no treatments or cures, but there are some supplements and diets that may be helpful in caring for a dog with CCD. You can support your dog at home by keeping routines consistent, patience, and adapting to their habits. 

Symptoms - disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, increased anxiety or confusion, toileting indoors or in unusual places, loss of learned behaviours, decreased interaction with others. Often symptoms are worse at night time.