Beagle Dog
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The Aging Beagle
Overview
The Beagle is considered a senior dog approximately at the age of 8. However, this is not set in stone. A particular dog may be deemed senior at age 7 or age 10.
How is this determined?
By the health, activity level and behavior of the dog.
At age 8, the Beagle should begin having geriatric vet appointments.
Let's discuss what this entails and how to know your Beagle is truly growing older.
The purpose of a geriatric exam for your Beagle will be for the veterinarian to have an overall view of your dog's health and plan for the future years of aging. A geriatric exam for the aging Beagle will include:
An Extended Physical Exam
The vet should do a thorough exam of your Beagle's eyes, ears, teeth and gums, heart, lungs, abdominal organs, muscles, bones, nervous system, and skin.An Extended Physical Exam
It should be discussed what to expect and what to watch for in each of these areas as your dog gets older. Nutrional needs should be talked about, as well as the importance of managing your dog's weight at a healthy level.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This blood test measures the 3 types of blood cells--red, white, and platelets. The red blood cells are measured, screening for diseases such as anemia. The test also looks at the dog's white blood cells, which can show possible disease immune system issues. Platelets are also looked at, these are the cells responsible for blood clotting. They are counted to make sure that there are enough.
Chemistry Profile
This blood test looks at the Beagle's liver and kidney function. Blood glucose level is evaluated, to screen for diabetes, a rather common health issue for the older Beagle.
Heartworm Antigen Test
This sensitive blood test acts to ensure the effectiveness of the heartworm prevention medication. This is because as all those years have gone by, a dog can build up immunity to certain medications. Your vet may find that there is a need to switch to a new brand.
Fecal Flotation
You will be asked to bring in a stool sample for evaluation. This is used to look for intestinal parasites which the older Beagle is more susceptible to.
Urinalysis
You should be asked to bring in a urine sample from your Beagle. As it is usually done with humans, your dog's vet should want a sample of the 1st urine of the morning. This will be evaluated to check for any kidney issues.
X-Rays
X-rays of the chest allow evaluation of the heart, lungs, and membranes lining the thoracic cavity. The size of the Beagle's heart and its chambers is assessed. The lungs are screened for normal aging changes.
Changes to Expect
Changes in Hearing
You can tell if you dog's hearing isn't as sharp as it used to be if he doesn't respond to his name or verbal commands, or suddenly barks for no reason.
As your Beagle approaches the 8 to 9 year mark, it is suggested to begin using hand commands along with verbal commands. This is greatly help your older dog, should hearing loss occur. For older Beagles who have lost their hearing, they can become startled if they do not hear people approaching them; it is best to be in their line of sight as you come up to them.
Changes in Housetraining
The older Beagle may begin to have trouble holding their bladder or bowel. This can be causes by kidney problems, diabetes, hormonal imbalances or simply because of a weakening of the bladder or bowel muscles.
It is best to keep a very easy access to the outdoor bathroom area, bring your older dog outside more often. In extreme cases, you will find that the very old Beagle will need doggie diapers. This is a good method, as a Beagle who keeps having accidents inside the home can lose self confidence. While one may quickly assume that wearing a doggie diaper is “embarrassing” for the dog; this is not true, as your older Beagle has no idea what a doggie diaper is.
Tip: If your dog is urinating a lot more...but also drinking excessively, this can be a sign of canine diabetes or kidney problems...something to report to your dog's veterinarian right away. Changes in Eating Habits
An older dog is more likely to develop tooth and gum conditions. And because of sore gums or loose teeth, he may let food drop out of his mouth or even refuse to eat. It is very important to perform dental care from day 1 of bringing your Beagle home. However, even if you ignored dental care then, begin right away. Your senior dog should have a “Full Dental” which will include a thorough cleaning of the teeth, inspection of the gums and a scraping.
The Senior Beagle should now be switched to a high quality Senior dog food, which should be softened with warm water or warm chicken broth if the dog has missing or sore teeth.
Vision
As a Beagle ages, a bluish tint usually develops over its eyes. This is normal and does not affect vision. However, one of the 1st symptoms of cataracts is a whitish color tint over the eyes. For this reason, any clouding of your dog’s eyes should be examined by your Beagle’s veterinarian.
Weight Gain or Loss
As your Beagle ages, his or her metabolism will slow down. At the same time, your dog will not be able to run around and exercise as they used to as a puppy or young adult. For this reason, weight gain is common. Unless you dog has health issues which prevent it, exercise should still be provided. It is suggested to walk at a slower pace and perhaps cut down the distance walked; however do not stop all together.
Skin and Coat
Often with older dogs, the skin thickens and loses elasticity. It's a good idea to check for large lumps on or under the skin. This could be a sign of a tumor, cyst or cancer. Use a gentle dog shampoo and thick, rich dog conditioner. Brush more gently when grooming.
Sleep
As a Beagle grows older, there will be a decrease in activity and your dog may want to nap more than usual. This is normal. He or she may tire out when playing. It is recommended to follow your dog’s cues for “when enough is enough” and allow your dog to rest as needed. It is highly suggested to obtain an orthopedic dog bed, as these offer great relief to an older dog’s stiff muscles, aches and pains.
More Help for the Senior Beagle
- Complete, Detailed Care from the 1 day old Newborn…to the Senior Dog
- Details of Health Issues that the Older Beagle is Prone to
- How to Keep your Older Beagle Comfortable
- How to Keep your Older Beagle Happy
- Lifetime Support, Directly with the Beagle Pro Experts…For FREE…For Life…
