A practical, no-panic guide to the changes you're probably seeing. This is general information, not veterinary advice — anything new or sudden deserves a vet visit.
When is a dog "senior"?
Roughly: giant breeds at 5–6 years, large breeds at 7, medium at 8, small breeds at 9–10. Size accelerates aging more than anything else.
1. They're slow to get up
Usually arthritis, and it's the most common senior dog condition. What helps: solid orthopedic foam bedding, joint support supplements started early rather than late, gentle consistent exercise instead of weekend sprints, keeping weight down, and traction on slippery floors.
2. They're slipping on the floors
Hind-end weakness plus smooth flooring is how older dogs get scared to walk. Runners, grip pads on the paw, and nail trims every 4 weeks make a bigger difference than any supplement.
3. They can't get onto the couch or into the car
Stop letting them jump before an injury forces the issue. A ramp introduced flat on the ground with treats, over a few days, gets used. A ramp thrown at a scared dog at a 30 degree angle does not.
4. Their breath has changed
Periodontal disease affects the majority of dogs over three, and it is painful, systemic and preventable. Soft finger brushing with enzymatic gel a few times a week, plus professional cleanings on your vet's schedule.
5. They're pacing or waking at 2am
This can be canine cognitive dysfunction — the dog version of sundowning. Keep routines rigid, add night lights, don't rearrange furniture, and rule out pain and thyroid issues with your vet first, because both mimic confusion.
6. They're drinking more, or having accidents
Go to the vet. Increased thirst is one of the few senior symptoms that is genuinely urgent — it points at kidneys, diabetes and Cushing's, and none of those are shopping problems.
A realistic first month
Week 1: bedding and floor traction. Week 2: start joint support. Week 3: dental routine. Week 4: mobility aids for stairs and the car. Change one thing at a time so you can tell what worked.