Dog Training - How To Communicate With An Elderly Dog

As dogs grow older, their senses become less sharp and this can lead to communication difficulties developing.

Other problems, such as a breakdown in toilet training, can also arise, and while the effects of aging cannot be cured, regular veterinary check-ups should help to combat them for a period.

Your vet can advise you on the best way to care for your senior pet.

Making Adjustments.

The relationship between you and your dog will inevitably alter as your dog grows older.

Dogs are now living much longer than in the past, thanks to advances in both nutrition and veterinary care, with even larger dogs now reaching their teens.

Sadly, however, a gradual decline in your dog's physical health is inevitable.

? Try not to let your dog wander off too far when you are out walking: its failing senses mean that he may come across difficulty in finding his way back to you.

? One of the obvious signs of aging, especially with bigger dogs, can be joint pain and stiffness. This will restrict your dog's ability to play, but some exercise is still important to maintain the dog's level of fitness. Preventing your dog gaining weight at this stage is especially important, so as not to place undue extra strain on his skeletal frame. Encourage your dogs to chase after toys, just as he did when he was younger.

? Be prepared to lift your dog into your car, or up stairs, because a combination of failing joints and deteriorating eyesight means that a dog will be reluctant to jump up as he may have done eagerly in the past.

? Make allowances for your dog if he does not respond immediately when called: it may be that he has hearing problems.

? If the dog's eyesight starts to fail or develops cataracts, try not to move furniture from its usual position, as the dog will find this disorientating.

? Pay particular attention to the dog's teeth and gums as these can develop infections and infect other organs.

Aging Problems.

As dogs grow older, so they become more reliant on routine. This is often then consequence of failing senses, with the result that they feel more secure in familiar surroundings.

His ability to hear will decline with age, as will his eyesight. Not surprisingly, dogs find this loss of sensory input disturbing, because it leaves him feeling isolated.

These changes often result in a dog becoming disorientated, especially at night, and being reluctant to settle down to sleep. Your dog may then bark repeatedly but for no obvious reason.

Dealing with this situation is difficult: if you persist in going to see what is wrong with your dog, this pattern of behavior soon becomes habitual. Arrange a veterinary appointment for your dog, to see if any medical aid may help.

Amy Howells is the owner of a website dedicated to teaching you the short-cuts to dog training.

You can also sign up to a free e-course and discover the astonishing short-cut secrets to dog obedience training

---

5 Common Grooming Mistakes Made by Dog Owners

1. Clipping the quick when cutting nails.Don't be in a... Read More

Canine Bloat

What is Canine Bloat?Bloat refers to the bloating of the... Read More

A Look at Discount Bird Cages

Buying a pet bird can be quite an investment. After... Read More

Fat and Obese Dogs Live Shorter Lives

Obesity is one of the most important health concerns facing... Read More

Is Your Dog In Pain Without You Realising?

A dog that is feeling pain can often be highly... Read More

Dog Training Basics

All positive commands should be spoken sharply and distinctly during... Read More

How Do Your Customer View Your Pet Business?

There are thousands of local and online Pet Stores but... Read More

Crate Training Dogs & Puppies- FAQ

1) Why should I crate train my dog? ... Read More

Why the Heck Would You Have a Pet Snake (or lizard, crocodile, monitor, frog, turtle etc)?

This is a question that has been asked of me... Read More

Preparing for Your New Pet

Getting a new pet can be a lot of fun.... Read More

Westies for Sale - Avoiding the Perils of Purebred Puppy Purchases

In the purebred West Highland Terrier puppy market, there are... Read More

Dog Anxiety - Fear of Thunderstorms, and Other Dog Fears

How to Deal With Anxiety in Your DogAnxiety in dogs... Read More

Im Allergic To My Cat!

Having a cat allergy came as something of a surprise... Read More

The Artful Dog Shopper

I am a dog lover by nature. I have just... Read More

West Highand WhiteTerriers - Westies Dogs - Footcare Health Tips

Westies dogs' owners delight in the companionship their dogs give... Read More

Life Long Nutrition A Comparison of Dog Foods

This article discusses two foods in paticual. For the puppy... Read More

Cats and Their Allure: What, When, Where and Why

Domesticated cats have been gaining in popularity in the United... Read More

A Beginners Guide to Lovebirds

Lovebirds are so named from the way they sit close... Read More

Dealing with a Dog Food Allergy?

Just as humans allergies can show up as a sneeze... Read More

Goldfish Feeding Tips

What's the best food for your Goldfish?Goldfish need food that... Read More

Is Dog Dental Care Necessary?

Caring for your dogs teeth is a vital part of... Read More

Dog Training ? Early Training Is Essential

Dogs are a fantastic edition to any family but like... Read More

Top 10 benefits of Natural and Holistic Pet Care

There are a number of reasons for choosing natural pet... Read More

Six Dog Training Tips to Modify Negative Behavior

Almost every dog owner will have to use some sort... Read More

Do You Know What You Are REALLY Feeding Your Pet?

When looking for the best dog food - consider Life's... Read More