6+ signs your dog is getting older
Every living being ages — and sadly, dogs do too. And yet, deep down, every dog parent secretly hopes their own dog will somehow live forever.
That goofy little puppy who cried through the first few nights, chewed your shoes, looked at you with innocent eyes when potty training didn’t quite work out… or begged the bite right out of your mouth with teary eyes — that pup may now be slower, have white fur around the muzzle, less mischievous eyes, and more and more little “quirks.”
In this post you’ll find the most common signs that aging has started for your dog — and I’ll also point out what’s worth showing to a veterinarian.
6+ signs your dog is aging
1. Cloudy eyes and declining vision
Cloudiness can develop so gradually that you might not even notice. It may not affect vision, but it can also be a sign of other eye issues — so it’s worth checking.
If your dog bumps into objects or can’t find their toys, that may indicate vision loss.
2. Bad breath
Bad breath isn’t rare in dogs, but if you suddenly notice a strong, unbearable smell, it can point to tooth decay or gum inflammation.
As dogs age, the immune system weakens and they can’t fight infections and inflammation as easily as they used to.
Along with good dental care, your vet may also suggest bloodwork.
3. Slowness and mobility issues
Older dogs may struggle with running, getting in and out of the car, or standing up after naps.
While we all slow down with age, mobility issues can also be caused by arthritis or other degenerative conditions.
4. New lumps and bumps
Some dogs are prone to harmless fatty lumps, and these can become more common with age.
However, every new lump should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out malignancy.
5. Weight changes
It’s no surprise that older, less active dogs may gain weight, and you may need to adjust diet and exercise to maintain a healthy body condition.
But pay attention if your senior dog loses weight too. Causes can include reduced muscle mass (which can be normal), decreased appetite, poor nutrient absorption, or digestive disease.
If your dog loses more than 10% of body weight within a few months to a year, contact your vet.
6. Urinary issues and incontinence
If your dog suddenly seems to “forget” house training rules or strains when urinating, it can be a sign of a urinary tract infection or kidney disease.
Incontinence isn’t unusual in senior dogs — and there are herbs that may help support them.
Behavioural and mental signs of aging in dogs
Physical symptoms aren’t the only changes you may notice. Behaviour changes can signal an underlying physical issue — or they may be normal signs of aging.
However, behavioural changes can also indicate canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CCDS). One study suggests CCDS affects 14–35% of dogs over eight years old.
Similar to Alzheimer’s-like dementia in humans, CCDS can cause major changes in daily behaviour:
- fear of familiar people or objects
- changes in sleep-wake cycles, including restlessness or nighttime agitation
- increased barking and vocalising
- repetitive or compulsive behaviours
- forgetting previously known commands and cues
- “forgetting” house training
- increased anxiety
- confusion and disorientation
- significant changes in activity level
A vet can often diagnose CCDS with simple questions and assess severity. While there’s no cure, there are newer medications and therapeutic options your vet may offer.
That’s why prevention matters so much — and why it’s worth supporting your dog’s nervous system early.
Start support early
Time hasn’t stopped in our household either (even though sometimes I really wish it had). That’s why we developed an herbal blend designed specifically to support senior dogs’ mental sharpness, digestion, skin and coat, and immune system — so signs of aging appear later and in a milder form where possible.
Our Old Friend supplement is a blend of 7 wonderful herbs and medicinal mushrooms, each one especially valuable when our dog is no longer young.
Wishing every dog a truly beautiful old age 🐾💛
Have a healthy day!
Magyari Detti
canine herbalist
