10 signs your dog is getting older

One day you notice your dog no longer rushes to the door to greet you, or that getting onto the sofa takes a little more effort. Old age arrives slowly and, because we live with them every day, the signs are easy to miss. Spotting them early lets you adapt their routine, see the vet sooner and, above all, help them enjoy their golden years.

At what age is a dog considered senior?

There is no single age. Size matters a lot. In general, small dogs (under 10 kg) are considered senior from around 9 or 10 years; medium dogs from around 8; and large and giant breeds from 6 or 7. It is only a guide: genetics, weight and lifestyle matter as much as the calendar.

1. Grey hair on the muzzle and around the eyes

This is the most visible sign. Just like us, their hair loses pigment and greys, first on the muzzle and eyebrows. It is not a health problem, but it is a good reminder to keep an eye on other things.

2. Sleeping longer and more deeply

An older dog may sleep several hours more a day than when young. It is also normal for them to take longer to wake up or not hear you come home. A good, firm and comfortable bed makes a difference: see our guide to choosing a bed for an older pet.

3. Getting up slowly or stiffly

If they struggle to get up in the morning, stretch their back legs a lot or take a few "rusty" steps before walking normally, it may be joint stiffness. It is one of the most common signs of arthritis and worth a vet visit.

4. Avoiding stairs, jumps and the car

Many older dogs stop jumping onto the sofa or hesitate before getting into the car. It is not laziness: they expect it to hurt. A ramp or step removes the jump, and a rear support harness lets you help them without straining their back.

5. Slipping on the floor at home

Wooden and tiled floors are slippery for weaker legs. If their legs splay or they struggle to turn, put rugs in the areas they use and consider non-slip socks.

6. Shorter, slower walks

They may stop pulling on the lead or stop halfway. Swap one long walk for two or three shorter ones, on flat ground and at their pace. Gentle exercise is still important to keep their muscles.

7. Changes in sight and hearing

Bluish or greyish eyes, bumping into things in dim light or not reacting to your voice are common signs. Keep furniture in the same place, talk to them before touching them and use hand signals as well as words.

8. Changes in appetite or weight

Some older dogs eat less; others put on weight because they move less. Both mean the diet needs adjusting. Unexplained weight loss should always be checked by a vet.

9. Small urine leaks

Incontinence is common in older dogs, especially spayed females. It is not their fault and they should never be scolded. There are practical everyday solutions, which we cover in our article on incontinence in older dogs and cats.

10. Personality changes or confusion

A dog who stares at the wall, gets lost at home, barks at night for no reason or seems more irritable may have cognitive decline. Treatments and routines can help, so mention it to your vet.

What you can do today

• More frequent check-ups: from the senior stage, at least two vet visits a year are recommended.
• An adapted home: non-slip rugs, ramps, bowls at a comfortable height and an easy-to-reach bed.
• A steady routine: fixed times for meals, walks and rest make them feel secure.
• Gentle exercise: short walks, calm sniffing games and no jumping.
• Lots of contact: brushing, massaging and talking to them keeps your bond strong and helps you spot lumps or sore areas.

A stage to enjoy together

Getting old is not an illness. With a few simple changes, your dog can keep enjoying walks, naps in the sun and their spot on the sofa. For practical ideas, take a look at our mobility and rest collections, designed for older dogs and cats.

Important: this article is for information only and does not replace a visit to your vet. If you notice sudden changes in behaviour, pain, weight loss or problems urinating, see a professional.