Older dog health

Prostatitis is very common in the older male dog. The prostate gland becomes enlarged and can be very painful. The dog may become stiff legged and have pain or fever. A dog being constipated can also be caused by this problem along with difficulty in urination because of the prostate pressing against your dog's urethra and rectum. A veterinarian can examine the dog rectum and decrease the pain by massaging it and then prescribing female hormones.

An older dog with urinary problems is fairly common and can also be caused by the nephritis, prostatitis, cystitis, and bladder stones. As your dog ages there is a degeneration of kidney tissue and decreased kidney function. This condition has the following symptoms: difficulty in walking, vomiting, loss of weight, bad breath, excessive drinking and frequent urination. This condition can sometimes be treated with a hormone treatment, with surgery if there are kidney stones, reducing the protein in their diet.

If you notice that your dog is short of breath or coughing, they may be having heart trouble. Heart problems and heart failure are common in about 10% of all dogs. An electrocardiograph can be given to check for this ailment. A veterinarian can digitalize your dog's heart to help strengthen it along with prescribing some medications. An accumulation of fluid in the lungs and abdominal cavity is common with this condition. A veterinarian will prescribe diuretics to help get rid of the excess fluid and medicine to help relieve any coughs. Try not to let your dog get too excited this can be bad for the dog's heart. Excessive heat can put extra strain on the heart make sure to keep your old dog in a cool dry place.

Controlling the dog's diet and weight is essential in maintaining his health. Diets that are low in salt, spice, seasoning, and certain types of vegetables like spinach, artichokes, celery, and turnips should be avoided.

Being knowledgeable and attentive to your dog's health can help you dog live a comfortable and long life.