The average lifespan of a dog is about 15 years, and they typically enter old age during the last quarter of their life. When a dog reaches old age, there will be certain changes in both appearance and physical functions, and the days we spend together will slowly decrease. Dogs may uncontrollably do some bad things, such as urinating and defecating everywhere. Actually, they do not want to trouble their owners. At this time, owners should be more patient with their dogs and spend more time accompanying them. So how to determine when a dog enters old age and what are the characteristics of dogs entering old age?

1. Changes in Appearance

1. Changes in Weight

Generally, as dogs get older, their metabolism slows down leading many dogs to gain weight, because their digestive system also starts to deteriorate and nutrients cannot be fully absorbed. If the diet is not quickly adjusted, the dog will continue to gain weight. Therefore, owners can reduce the amount of food accordingly and take the dog out for more walks to boost metabolism.

2. Fur Becomes Messy and Dull

In older dogs, the fur’s color and texture are not as good as when they were young. Basically, their fur will reduce and the color will start to fade, similar to how human hair turns gray with age.

2. Changes in Physical Functions

1. Digestive Function Decline

Although poor digestion can cause weight loss, the reason older dogs have poor digestion is due to reduced secretion of digestive enzymes and they may often have diarrhea or vomiting, causing insufficient nutrient absorption. Therefore, owners should regularly provide additional nutrition supplements.

2. Respiratory System Degeneration

Due to age, a dog’s airway may narrow, and sometimes breathing becomes rapid or they may cough.

3. Changes in Excretion Habits

Incontinence and Constipation

With age, memory deteriorates and dogs may forget where they usually relieve themselves, indicating dementia which dogs can also get. Additionally, older dogs may become less mobile and prefer staying in one spot, which can easily cause constipation over time.