As dogs live longer through improved veterinary care, the welfare needs of geriatric dogs require increasing attention. Understanding ageing changes helps owners support their dogs in later life.
Senior dog welfare is increasingly significant as the dog population ages. Chronic pain from osteoarthritis is the most prevalent welfare compromise - research suggests the majority of older dogs have painful joints but only a minority are recognized and treated. Cognitive dysfunction causes confusion, anxiety and night waking that impairs quality of life for affected dogs and disrupts the human-dog relationship. Sensory decline affects the dog's ability to navigate familiar environments and engage with social interactions. The combination of multiple chronic conditions in geriatric dogs creates complex welfare assessment challenges where owners must weigh the welfare of managing individual problems against overall quality of life. Timely recognition of welfare decline and access to appropriate veterinary care are the key determinants of senior dog welfare.