What changes after 7: the signs owners notice first

VCA Animal Hospitals lists the signs of discomfort in older dogs, and notes that they are often mistaken for plain old age. These are the ones owners tend to notice first.

How he moves

• He's slow to get up after a rest.
• He waits before jumping onto the sofa or into the car.
• He's unsure on the stairs.
• He sits on one hip.
• Walks are shorter, and he tires sooner.
• He's less keen to be brushed.
• He's restless at night, or has accidents indoors.

How he behaves

• He sleeps more by day and is restless at night.
• He seems confused at times.
• He interacts less with the family.

Tell your vet

Changes in drinking, peeing, appetite or how he moves are worth a check-up, and so is a limp that lasts more than a day or two.

More guides

• How often should an older dog see the vet?
• Slower on walks: what's normal and when to call the vet