PHYSIOLOGICAL CHANGES IN THE AGING DOG

When the dog gets beyond 6 or 7 years of age, he begins to show definite physiological changes. He may be in good flesh, with a stout appearance, or he may be emaciated, depending on how he's endured the years. His hair will be dryer and sparse, especially on the abdomen; resulting from a reduction in the skin gland activity. The hair around the old dog's muzzle turns white or gray. Skin tumors make their appearance and the skin thickens with age. Calluses are common in old dogs and form on the hocks, elbows and other bony parts. The old bitch's breasts sag or hang down and the nipples become wrinkled and enlarged. Deafness and blindness come to the old dog. Cataracts are most always present in dogs over 10 years of age. Finally, the old dog's teeth are worn down, broken or riddled with cavities.

There is a generalized loss of muscle tone in the aging dog, with accompanying muscular atrophy. The respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive and urogenital systems all undergo changes and deterioration. The old dog has less resistance to disease or stress than younger animals. And he doesn't adapt too well to changes in his routine or environment.

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