Thanks to dramatic advances in veterinary science, dogs are living longer and healthier lives than they were just a few decades ago. Modern nutrition, therapeutics, and preventive care have extended both the quantity and quality of a dog's golden years.

Time Flies

It might seem like just yesterday when you brought home that adorable, playful puppy, but time flies! It's said that a dog ages seven years for every human year. This is somewhat inaccurate. The rate at which your dog ages depends more on lifestyle, environment, and especially size. Large dogs generally age faster than small dogs. Large and giant breed dogs (over 50 lbs) are considered "senior" by the time they are six to seven years old. Medium breeds (20-50 lbs) reach their golden years at around age nine. Small dogs and toy breeds become seniors as late as their early teens. For a fun online age calculator, go to www.dogage.com.

What is Aging?

Aging is a normal biologic process associated with gradual decreases in organ function that increase the susceptibility to disease. The results of aging are slowly progressive and often irreversible. But with close attention and proper care, it is often possible to "slow the clock," extending your dog's good quality of life for many years.

The following are some changes you might expect to see as your dog ages:

• Graying around the face and muzzle
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Hair coat becomes thinner and duller
• Elbow calluses
• Gradual loss of muscle mass
• Decreased mobility
• Lower energy level
• Weight gain
• Hazy blue tint to the eyes
• Decreased senses of hearing, smell, vision, and taste
• Dental disease, bad breath
• Increased need for sleep, more difficult to rouse
• Increased sensitivity to heat and cold
• Personality changes

To continue reading, please visit DogHealth.com