7 Health Issues to Watch in Older Dogs: Vet’s 2025 Guide for Senior Care 🐾🕰️ 

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Hello—I’m Dr Duncan Houston BVSc, veterinarian and Ask A Vet founder. As dogs enter their senior years (~7–10 years), it's vital to monitor key health areas closely. Here are seven major concerns:

• Vision & eye disorders
• Urinary changes
• Dental issues
• Cancer & lumps
• Arthritis & joint health
• Cognitive dysfunction
• Incontinence

1. Vision & Eye Problems 👁️

Senior dogs may experience lens cloudiness (lenticular sclerosis), cataracts, dry eye, or glaucoma. Early signs include bumping into furniture, hesitation in dim light, redness, or discomfort. Normal lens cloudiness is common but treatable conditions like cataracts can be managed or surgically corrected.

2. Urinary & Kidney Concerns 🚽

Look for increased thirst, frequent/straining urination, accidents, or blood in urine—potential signs of kidney disease, UTIs, or diabetes.

• Diagnostics: urinalysis, bloodwork
• Treatments may include diet changes, medications, or antibiotics

3. Dental Disease 🦷

Bad breath, excessive drooling, inflamed gums, loose teeth, or difficulty chewing are red flags. Periodontal disease affects most seniors and can lead to pain, tooth loss, and systemic illness.

• Home brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings help maintain oral health

4. Cancer & Lumps 🎗️

Almost half of dogs older than 10 develop cancer. Common types include mast cell tumors, lymphoma, hemangiosarcoma, and osteosarcoma—keep an eye on new lumps, odd bleeding, or weight loss.

• Schedule lump exams during checkups
• Early biopsy improves treatment options

5. Arthritis & Joint Pain 🦴

Up to 80% of dogs develop joint issues by age 7. Watch for stiffness, difficulty rising, slowing down, or avoiding stairs. Hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and spinal spondylosis are common causes.

• Support with glucosamine, omega‑3, weight management, gentle exercise, and orthopedic beds

6. Cognitive Dysfunction 🧠

Canine dementia (CCD) affects memory and behavior—look for disorientation, forgotten training, house accidents, sleep changes, and anxiety.

• Treatment includes selegiline, DHA/antioxidants, structured routines, and stimulation

7. Incontinence & Bladder Control 💧

Aging can weaken bladder control—senior dogs may dribble or have accidents. Though common, it can indicate UTIs, incontinence, or neurological issues.

• Discuss medications, scheduled potty breaks, and protective bedding

Ask A Vet Tools for Senior Monitoring 🛠️

• Alerts for changes in vision, urinary habits, appetite, or mobility
• Photo logs of lumps, dental exams, and cognitive behaviors
• Medication & supplement reminders (joint, cognitive, urinary)
• Vet appointment scheduling for screenings and diagnostics
• Symptom-tracker for drooling, accidents, disorientation, and stiffness

📌 Final Thoughts from a Vet

Senior dogs face multiple potential health challenges, but with vigilance, early detection, and targeted care, many continue to enjoy quality lives. Regular vet visits, good nutrition, joint support, dental hygiene, mental enrichment, and Ask A Vet tools help you catch small changes before they escalate, keeping your companion happy and well in their golden years. 🐕❤️