For anyone who's had a dog that has gotten older, we know there are definite signs of age, and things that can make caring for an older dog a little more challenging.

While the 7 "dog years" in every human year is a roughly measure of a dog's age, it doesn't take into account differences in breed. Dogs do age faster than we do, and it's important to understand just how old your dog is.

If you want to understand how old your dog is, and where you should be in the care cycle, check out the Dog Age Calculator by Pedigree, you'll only need to know your dog's human age and breed.

Issues with Ageing Dogs

There are multiple issues with dogs as they get older. The more you understand what is normal for their age, the easier it becomes to care for them. Some of these are merely notable pieces of information for you; others are things you will want to keep an eye on for the health of your dog.

Loss of energy - Dogs, like humans, tend to lose energy when they age for various reasons. Your dog may be dealing with arthritis, or may be experiencing muscle atrophy. Both of these are best diagnosed and treated by your veterinarian. Loneliness may also be a contributing factor to a dog losing energy. If they are not around other dogs that are more active, they will tend to be less active themselves. For this, try taking your dog to a dog park several times a week, or enrolling her in a doggie daycare a couple times per week; just be sure to let the staff know she is a senior dog so they can keep an eye on her. Be sure your dog's diet matches their age. Like people, dog's nutritional needs change as their bodies age. Also consider if your dog can chew hard dog food, or needs a softer food.

Greying Fur - Even dogs get Gray hair. This greying can occur over the entire coat, but usually exhibits itself near the muscle. This is not a health concern, but can definitely help understand where your companion is in their life cycle.

Hearing & Vision Problems - Vision and hearing problems in older dogs are common. Your vet will help you diagnose specific problems, like cataracts, and give you a treatment plan if appropriate. Be sure the care you provide for your dog is appropriate with her age. If she is running into walls and doors, you'll want to have her checked out. Remember how scary it can be for any animal if they are losing one of their senses.

Loss of Bowel & Bladder Control - One of the most chagrined aspects of caring for an older dog is incontinence. Some of this can be caused by arthritis and muscle atrophy. Other aspects can be a loss of warning when they have a need to eliminate. Try installing a dog door before investing in those doggie diapers; this allows your dog to get outside if needed without having to wait for you. If you have a sliding door, consider the easy to install panel door instead of cutting into your wood door. Also, before installing a dog door, be sure your yard is secured with a fence and free of anything that could cause harm to your dog being they are unattended.

As your companion gets older, make sure you get educated on how to better care for him to keep him an integrated part of your family.