Companion Animals

Companion Dog Senior Care

Dogs are living longer, and senior care involves managing chronic conditions including cognitive dysfunction, pain and sensory loss while maintaining quality of life and dignity.

Key Facts

Dogs are generally considered senior from 7-10 years depending on breed size
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) affects an estimated 28% of dogs aged 11-12 and 68% aged 15-16
Pain from osteoarthritis affects around 80% of dogs over 8 years of age
Modern veterinary care including pain management and cognitive support can substantially improve senior quality of life

Welfare Considerations

Senior dogs with unmanaged pain and cognitive decline experience reduced quality of life characterised by confusion, irritability and inability to engage in previously enjoyed activities. Many owners attribute behavioural changes to normal ageing rather than treatable conditions. Regular senior health assessments from age 7 onwards enable early intervention that significantly improves welfare.

What You Can Do

Schedule twice-yearly vet checks for dogs over 7 to detect age-related conditions early
Discuss pain assessment and management with your vet if your senior dog shows stiffness
Adapt the home environment for dogs with cognitive or sensory decline (ramps, night lights, consistent routines)
Learn to complete a quality-of-life assessment for your senior dog to guide end-of-life conversations