No one likes to think that their furry companion is aging. Dogs are family, and your time with them always feels too short. Dogs age and fall ill, and there comes a time when saying goodbye creeps up on you. You can’t stop this from happening, but knowing the small changes in your dog can help you make their final days as comfortable as possible.
Difficulty Standing or Lying Down
You might notice your dog hesitating before getting up or shifting uncomfortably before lying down. This can indicate joint pain, stiffness, or weakness. Place rugs on slippery floors, use a supportive dog bed, or gently boost your dog when it needs help. If your dog looks like it is in pain, a vet can recommend options to keep it comfortable in its final days.
Chronic Pain or Sensitivity
If your dog flinches when touched, avoids certain movements, or seems restless, it might be in pain. Older dogs often experience arthritis, nerve issues, or internal discomfort, making everyday life and movement more difficult. Keep their resting area soft and easily accessible, and avoid handling sore spots. A vet can assess if medication or adjustments can help.
Changes in Grooming Behavior
Dogs sometimes seem obsessed with grooming (much to your annoyance), but changes in this could indicate an issue—either if they groom too much or stop altogether. Constant licking can mean pain or irritation; neglecting grooming might mean they’re too weak or uncomfortable. Check for sore spots, brush them gently, and keep them clean if needed.
Severe Weight Loss or Muscle Wasting
Dogs can lose weight as they age, but sudden and rapid weight loss or muscle wasting is a sign of something wrong. If their ribs or spine start showing, it could indicate an issue with absorbing nutrients or a loss of interest in eating. Offer smaller, frequent meals and add calorie-rich wet food or bone broth to help.
Breathing Changes
Changes in breathing (heavy panting, irregular rhythms, or sudden gasping) can indicate that your dog is struggling. Labored breaths can make it hard to rest, so place your dog in a calm, quiet space to help. A well-padded bed and adjusting their position can ease discomfort. If they seem thirsty but weak, offer water in a shallow bowl or a damp cloth.
Loss of Interest in Food and Water
If your dog used to wolf down their food or make a beeline for the water bowl but now barely touches either, its body may be slowing down. Offer small, soft meals or warm their food before serving to make it more appealing. To encourage them to eat, try hand-feeding or adding broth. Keep water close by in a shallow dish to help encourage drinking.
Digestive Issues
Some dog food is bound to cause digestive issues because of the ingredients. Consult your vet before you switch brands to rule out any allergies. In the meantime, give your dog boiled chicken and rice. Spread small, frequent meals throughout the day to help ease digestion and keep them hydrated. If your dog struggles with constipation, add a little canned pumpkin to their food.
Disorientation or Confusion
If your dog gets lost in familiar areas, stares at objects, or gets stuck in corners, it could be experiencing disorientation. While an injury can cause this, it’s common in older dogs nearing the end of their lives. Keep your home clutter-free and designate a room where your dog can be kept at night to avoid them being at risk for injuries.
Shaking or Trembling
Shaking or trembling can indicate many things, including stress or fear. However, if your dog is not prone to emotional triggers, it may signal pain or fatigue. Move your dog to a quiet room away from loud noises and keep its space warm. If your dog struggles to get up, offer gentle support and stay close to comfort and reassure it.
Increased Aggression or Anxiety
If your usually calm dog suddenly growls, snaps, or acts restless, it may feel in pain or vulnerable. Avoid sudden movements and give your dog space. Keep your dog in a quiet, familiar, predictable environment to help reduce stress. A soft light or familiar blanket might soothe them if they seem anxious at night. Speaking gently and moving slowly can also prevent unnecessary distress.
Changes in Eye or Ear Health
As with humans, dogs are extremely prone to eye and ear problems as they age. Cloudy eyes, redness, or frequent squinting can signal vision loss, while head shaking or ear odor might mean discomfort. Keeping furniture in the same place can help them move around safely. Keeping their surroundings quiet and free of sudden movements can prevent unnecessary stress if their senses decline.
Changes in Urination Habits
When urination habits change, it could indicate kidney issues or loss of bladder control. If your dog is going more often or struggling to go at all, take them to the vet immediately. Keep their water accessible, use pee pads, or up the frequency of taking them out to prevent accidents. Always keep an eye on them while outside to monitor their habits.
Visible Discomfort or Restlessness
Restlessness, constant movement, or frequent position changes can be signs of discomfort. If your dog can’t relax, move it to a quiet spot with a cushioned bed. Some dogs feel more at ease with a familiar blanket or gentle pressure from a supportive pillow. If they seem anxious, gently reassure them or slowly pet them to help them feel more secure.
Loss of Interest in Favorite Activities
Dogs are adored for their antics and playful nature, but if your once-active pup starts losing interest in their favorite activities and toys, something might be off. If walks feel like too much, let them set the pace. If they ignore playtime, gentle interaction like brushing or sitting together can still bring comfort. Small changes help keep them engaged without pushing too hard.
Changes in Vocalization
Dogs can communicate in many ways without the need for words, and barking is one way they express their needs or emotions. Something might be wrong if your usually quiet dog suddenly whines more or if a once-vocal pup becomes unusually silent. A calm environment, soft lighting, and gentle reassurance can help. Paying attention to their vocalizations can also give clues about what they need.
