Alarming Symptoms in Older Dogs to Never Ignore

Updated: July 12, 2022

As pet parents, we recognize it immediately whenever our older dogs are feeling off and unwell. There are symptoms we let pass but there are symptoms, too, that we should never ignore.

Never ignore when you see these in your dog

Restlessness

Notice how your senior dog just chills and relaxes on one corner of your house? That's just the way he is!

But if ever you notice him getting restless, transferring from one place to another and can't seem to rest "in peace," this can greatly indicate that he is experiencing pain and discomfort.

Restlessness can be a serious symptom of a serious problem.

"If ever you notice him getting restless, transferring from one place to another and can't seem to rest "in peace," this can greatly indicate that he is experiencing pain and discomfort."

Fainting

Fainting suddenly is another symptom you should watch out for, too. Your dog will suddenly lose the strength to hold his body up, that's why he falls and is unable to rise again. Some dogs who faint also lose consciousness that's why this should not be ignored. If your dog collapsed and peed, it is possible that they were suffering a seizure. A dog who appears to faint and lose control of their bladder or bowels is a sign of serious concern.

Decreased appetite/No appetite at all

Yes, there will be times that your senior dog will not eat as much but he's okay. There are also times that you should never ignore a dog with a decreased appetite/no appetite at all. There are many causes why your dog “loses his appetite” and is often the first indication of illness. Whatever the cause may be, loss of appetite can have a serious effect on your senior dog's health if it continues for 24 hours or more.

Breathing Difficulties

Never (ever!) ignore a dog that is having trouble breathing. This is not a good sign. Breathing difficulty in your dog will not be able to bring him the right amount of oxygen to his body and may lead to coughing and even greater complications.

Peeing/Pooping Problem,

This can include signs of frequent and unsuccessful attempts to eliminate, urinary/fecal incontinence, straining/leakage, evidence of discomfort when trying to pee/poop. There are several underlying causes for this. And if left untreated, it can result in death.

black dog

Fever

Fever is something that causes all of us to freak out. If your pet temperature is high, his body might be fighting infection in the body brought by foreign matters such as bacteria and viruses.

All these symptoms can be life threatening if not evaluated and treated with its underlying cause.

But there are ways you can do to manage it and help your dog on his way to recovery.

Consult your veterinarian. If you see these symptoms in your dog, go and see your veterinarian immediately. It's better that the symptoms get evaluated immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Provide the proper diet. Give your dog the proper diet he needs that is prescribed by his veterinarian. This is to make sure he is provided with the right nutritional value.

Dog diapers and dog belly bands. If your dog is experiencing urinary/fecal incontinence, dog diapers and dog belly bands are of great help! These prevent your dog from peeing/pooping anywhere and saves you the stress of cleaning every messy accident they make. These also save your dog the energy to go out of the house to go potty.

We know it's tough and sad to see your dog like this but all we can do is help them get through it. Have full control, make them comfortable in your home and give them everything they need for a fast recovery.

"If your pet's temperature is high, his body might be fighting infection in the body brought by foreign matters such as bacteria and viruses."

The author

MICKA V.

Author Bio

Micka Virtudazo is a full-time content creator at Pet Parents® who lives with thirteen adorable American Bullies and a Shih Tzu-Maltese mix named Gretel. She especially enjoys writing how-to articles as she feels through this she can connect to other pet parents on a more personal level.

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