Recognizing typical signs of aging in dogs

1. Loss of vision and other eye diseases.

Has your dog started bumping into things, falling uncontrollably, or showing signs of eye discomfort (redness, clouding, etc.)? She may suffer from impairment or loss of vision. Visual impairment is part of the normal aging process in dogs. However, there are some things you can do to help your pet adjust to the new environment. What should I do if my dog ​​shows symptoms of blindness in old age? How to help if she is blind? Ask your veterinarian for advice on handling animals with visual loss and to rule out treatable eye conditions such as cataracts, dry eye syndrome, or conjunctivitis.

2. Frequent or intense urination.

Frequent or strained urination can be a sign of kidney disease or urinary tract infection, both of which are more common in middle-aged and older dogs. Fortunately, urinary incontinence or urinary incontinence can often be alleviated with medication or food changes. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has this problem.

For a full article on how dogs change as they age, visit the petMD website.