Behavior Issues In Older Dogs Sterling VA

Your dog getting older can be very difficult, just like it is for humans.  There are many changes that are happening as your dog ages and not all of them pleasant.  Dogs age much faster than humans, which can make it more difficult for your dog to handle the rapid effects of aging on their body.  As an owner you need to be aware of these changes, and adapt with your dog.  Although you need to adapt to the changing needs of your dog, it is also important to remember not to spoil or baby your dog. 

As your dog ages it becomes more and more difficult for them to adapt to changes.  You will need to keep this in mind when you are planning on making major changes.  If your dog has a favorite toy, or blanket, or dog bed on which he sleeps, or a favorite spot in the house you should not take it away.  This change can be very damaging to your dog.  Oftentimes families will recognize this fear of change coming out when there is a new household member, such as the birth of a baby.

Certain changes may not only be damaging to your dog, but to you as well.  Sometimes a dog will react to a change by misbehaving.  Some examples of this misbehavior are urinating or defecating in the house, or even getting out of the yard even though they know they are not supposed to.  Changes that would have upset your dog even in his young age should be avoided, if possible.  The three hardest changes for a dog to adapt to are: moving, a new family member, and being cared for by someone else for a long period of time. As a younger dog your dog would have probably adapted to the change over time, but with age it is harder to adapt.

If you find your dog misbehaving you should steer away from trying to bribe him with people food.  If your dog is not use to the treats, or table food this could also cause problems.  Major changes in the dogs diet could upset the stomach, and cause vomiting.  Your dog may also come to expect these treats, and not eat the regular food offered, which then forces you to give in and give them the treats.  Constantly giving treats is not good because it will cause your dog to be eating an unbalanced diet and could contribute to their sickness.  Remember to avoid major changes. 

If your dog has gone for a walk with you everyday since you had him, you should continue this.  Due to the aging of your dog you may need to shorten the length of the walk, and the pace at which you walk.  Physical activity, and the presence of a routine will be good for your dog.

Some changes will need to be made in order to help your dogs aging process, but still remember that major changes are not good for your dog.  Small changes like having a friend walk your dog during the day, or going on a weekend camping trip with your dog, can still be fun for your aging pet. You want to remember that adapting to your dog and babying your dog are two different things.  Try to adapt your lifestyle to fit your dogs changing needs without giving in to your dogs negative behaviors.