Dit deel is nog niet in het Nederlands beschikbaar; je ziet voorlopig de versie in het Engels.
In het kort
- Large breeds age earlier than small breeds.
- Short, frequent walks, non-slip floors and a supportive bed increase comfort.
- Veterinary check-ups usually become more frequent.
- Watch for changes in sight, hearing and thinking.
- Brain games are very valuable for older dogs too.
A dog's senior years usually begin around the age of 7; earlier in giant and large breeds and later in small breeds. In this stage your dog rests more, moves more slowly and needs more comfort.
What is happening in this stage?
- Muscle mass and mobility may decrease.
- Sight and hearing may fade.
- Sleep patterns may change, with more sleep during the day.
- Some dogs show changes in finding their way or in their habits.
What should you do differently?
- Home setup: Non-slip floors, ramps and a supportive bed increase everyday comfort.
- Exercise: Short, frequent walks instead of long ones, with sniffing breaks.
- Feeding: An older dog's needs can change; review food and portions with your veterinarian.
- Mental activity: Easy food puzzles and sniffing games keep the mind alert.
- Routine: Keep the daily routine as steady as possible.
What should you monitor?
- Weight and muscle loss
- Difficulty getting up, lying down, using stairs or getting into the car
- Changes in drinking and toilet habits
- Night-time restlessness, difficulty finding the way, or behavior changes
- Teeth and mouth
Expected behavior
More sleep, shorter walks and a slower pace are natural at this stage. But some changes shouldn't be dismissed as "just old age"; share any new change with your veterinarian.
Reminders
- Check-ups as often as your vet recommends (usually more often)
- Monthly weighing and note-taking
- Nail and paw care (to reduce slipping)
De leeftijdsgrenzen zijn bij benadering; verschillen binnen een soort (zoals grootte bij honden) kunnen de overgangen vervroegen of vertragen.
Deze inhoud is algemene informatie en vervangt geen onderzoek of diagnose door een dierenarts. Maak je je zorgen over de gezondheid van je dier, neem dan contact op met je dierenarts.