As dogs grow older, it’s difficult to accept that they are reaching the final stages of their lives. While it’s rare for dogs to live past 30, with the extraordinary case of Chilla, an Australian cattle dog who reached 32, most dogs typically live between 7 and 13.5 years. With age, noticeable changes in dog behavior may appear. Here’s what to expect as your dog moves into his senior years.
1. More Talkative
An older dog may begin to talk more frequently, though it’s not necessarily because he wants to “chat.” They may bark excessively, whin, or howl which could point to confusion due to cognitive decline, loss of hearing, or even physical discomfort from ailments like arthritis. A broader veterinary checkup can help identify any medical causes. If there’s no underlying health issue, consider training techniques to encourage silence on command, rewarding calm dog behavior. Non-shock bark-control collars, such as those using citronella spray, or anti-anxiety medication may also provide relief.
2. Heightened Anxiety and Separation Issues
As dogs age, they can become more anxious. They are sensitive toward new people or pets and may become more irritable or even aggressive. An older dog may follow you more closely or crave additional physical contact. Some dogs show anxiety by scratching or damaging doors and windows when left alone or refusing to eat when you aren’t there. You can change dog behavior through behavior modification training, especially with a professional, who can effectively manage these anxiety-related behaviors and improve the dog’s overall comfort.
3. Indoor Elimination
If your senior dog starts having accidents inside, it’s usually not a matter of disobedience. Older dogs may struggle with control over their bladder or bowels due to reduced mobility, increased urgency, or serious health issues such as organ dysfunction or even brain conditions. A vet visit is essential to rule out medical causes. If health isn’t the issue, reintroducing housetraining techniques, similar to training a puppy, can help reinforce proper elimination habits. Regular trips outside and positive reinforcement, when he eliminates outdoors, can remind him of the correct behavior.
4. Destructive Behavior
Destructiveness in older dogs can be challenging, often involving chewing, digging, or even self-harming behaviors like over-grooming. This could be due to cognitive decline or a physical ailment, but providing appropriate chew toys, like rawhide, and making the environment safer can reduce this behavior. Some dogs may develop a form of pica, where they consume non-food items, like pencils. Monitoring and redirecting destructive behavior is key, and keeping tempting objects out of reach can help curb these tendencies.
5. Fears and Phobias
With advancing age, dogs may develop new fears or phobias. A once-confident dog might now shiver in response to noises or appear lost due to diminished eyesight. Keep his environment consistent, avoiding rearrangements that could cause him to trip or stumble. Playing background music can help mask disturbing sounds. Before turning to a behaviorist or a pheromone therapy expert, consult your vet to rule out any medical reasons behind this increased sensitivity.
6. Compulsive or Repetitive Behaviors
Senior dogs may develop ritualized behaviors that serve no real purpose. They may obsessively lick or groom themselves, causing “hot spots,” chase their tails, pace, or even snap at invisible flies. These repetitive actions can be triggered by cognitive decline or anxiety and, in some cases, can become a form of self-soothing behavior. Consulting with a veterinarian or a behaviorist is essential to address these compulsions, which can sometimes be alleviated with medication or therapy.
7. Unprovoked Aggression
Older dogs can become aggressive without clear provocation, often due to a decline in their senses, such as hearing, vision, or smell, which makes them more prone to being startled. Identifying the specific cause of aggression is essential for effective treatment. For instance, if the aggression stems from fear, using a head collar might worsen the problem. Professional behavioral retraining can be very effective in addressing aggression in senior dogs, and reducing potential triggers can further help him feel more at ease.
8. Difficulty Sleeping
Senior dogs may struggle with sleeplessness, often waking during the night due to the need to go outside, pain, or separation anxiety. Most of the dog behavior tends to turn the other way around. If accidents are happening at night, you might consider removing food and water a few hours before bedtime to reduce the likelihood. Allowing your dog to sleep in your room may also help if separation anxiety is the issue. Always consult your vet to ensure no underlying pain or health issue is disrupting his sleep.
9. Grieving for Lost Companions
While not thoroughly researched, it’s known that dogs can form close bonds with other pets, and they may show signs of grief when a companion dies. Dogs mourning a loss may become less active, lose their appetite, or display signs of depression. To help your grieving dog, provide extra attention, and consider introducing a new pet if circumstances allow, which may help fill the void left by his lost friend.