Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

Don’t be fooled – older dogs can still romp and play like puppies; proof that you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Don’t feel that you have to give up exercising your older dog or stop playing games together because of your dog’s age. A program of regular exercise will keep your older dog fit and healthy. Here are four great ways to exercise your older dog.

Take short walks together
Walking is always a good choice for exercise, for both you and your dog. Even arthritic dogs can usually walk for a fairly long distance. Be aware of how far you do walk so you don’t overtire your dog on the way back home. If there are grassy areas nearby, let your dog walk on uneven grassy stretches which provide a lower-impact walk and can help improve your dog’s balance. If your dog begins to limp or show signs of being in pain, stop and rest. Don”t force your dog to walk if it’s in obvious pain.

For dogs suffering from paralysis or severe hip dysplasia, a dog cart can restore some mobility. Properly fitted, many dogs are able to continue their daily walks with the help of these carts. There are many styles of carts to fit all sizes of dogs and they can be ordered online from several retailers. If your dog suffers from severe hip dysplasia or arthritis and requires the aid of a cart. Carts can be customized beyond the normal size at no extra charge.

Play Tug-O-War
A game of Tug-O-War is not recommended for young or aggressive dogs, but in a gentle, older dog, the game can instill confidence and strengthen your dog’s teeth, gums and jaw. Protect your dog’s teeth by not yanking or tugging on the rope with a lot of force.

Swimming Lessens Pressure On The Joints
If your dog takes to the water like a Golden or Labrador Retriever does, swimming can be very helpful in lessening the pain of arthritis and hip dysplasia. Water reduces painful pressure on the joints and allows freedom of movement impossible on hard surfaces. If your dog is not used to swimming, try easing it into a shallow area of a lake or pond. This is more desirable than a swimming pool because the slippery surface of pools can frighten some dogs. It’s even better if you can go in the water with your dog. Most dogs can swim except for some chest-heavy dogs like Dobermans who may not be able to swim safely.

Give Your Older Dog Something To Retrieve
Fetching does not have to involve long distances or fast running. You can gently roll a ball to an older dog and the game can be played outdoors or indoors. Be sure to use a ball large enough to prevent choking. In dogs the size of a Golden or Labrador, a tennis ball might be too small and you’ll need to find the right size at a pet supply store.

Since 1990, Winston’s Joint System and Winston’s Pain Formula have helped heal over twenty thousand dogs from all over the world. Our staff specializes in hip dysplasia, arthritis and all joint, pain and mobility issues.

There is an excellent chance we can help your dog, so please contact us at: www.dogshealth.com or call our toll free number at 888-901-5557.

IS YOUR DOG IN PAIN?

Does Your Dog Have Trouble:

  • Walking?
  • Standing?
  • Getting up?

WE CAN HELP

 

How to Treat Respiratory Infections in Dogs

Respiratory infections in dogs are common and most dogs will develop a respiratory infection at some point in their lifetime. Some dogs will also have recurring respiratory infections throughout their lifetimes. These facts make it important that pet owners learn how to treat respiratory infections in a dog.

Most respiratory infections are caused by cold viruses and the most common types of respiratory infections are dog influenza and kennel cough. If not detected and treated early, these minor infections can develop into full blown pneumonia.

Symptoms of respiratory infections include the following:

* A nasal discharge which is usually yellow but may also be transparent depending on the cause and type of infection.
* Discharges of clear fluid from the eyes, often accompanied by swelling of the eyes. A dog may also develop conjunctivitis (pink eye).
* Coughing which becomes more severe at night.
* High fever.
* Sneezing or wheezing.
* Lack of appetite.
* Salivating excessively.
* Dehydration.
* Lethargy.

These symptoms are usually more severe in puppies and senior dogs.

A respiratory infection can be diagnosed by a veterinarian based on the dog’s symptoms and testing to determine if the infection is bacterial, viral, or fungal.

Minor respiratory infections in dogs usually last between 5 to 10 days and require no treatment. During this time it is important to keep the dog hydrated and well fed. If the dog is severely dehydrated and undernourished, the vet may need to administer IV fluids and/or antibiotics.

Care must be taken with your pet because respiratory infections in dogs are highly contagious and can easily be transmitted through the air or through saliva from dog to dog. These infections are not transmittable to humans so you needn’t worry about infecting yourself or your family.

Since 1990, Winston’s Joint System and Winston’s Pain Formula have helped heal over twenty thousand dogs from all over the world. Our staff specializes in hip dysplasia, arthritis and all joint, pain and mobility issues.

There is an excellent chance we can help your dog, so please contact us at: www.dogshealth.com or call our toll free number at 888-901-5557.

IS YOUR DOG IN PAIN?

Does Your Dog Have Trouble:

  • Walking?
  • Standing?
  • Getting up?

WE CAN HELP

 

A Dog’s Lifespan

A dog’s lifespan varies widely by the type of breed, and also its size. All dog breeds belong to the same species, evolved from the wolf, yet they age at very different rates and no one understands why there is such a variance. Some dog breeds live to be 16 to 20 years old, whereas breeds like the Irish Wolfhound have a life expectancy of only 6 to 8 years.


If you’re considering adopting an adult dog or a puppy, and you’re concerned about the dog’s lifespan, the best advice is – think small.

Around 40% of small breed dogs live longer than 10 years. In contrast, only 13% of giant breed dogs will live that long. The average 50-pound dog has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, while a giant breed like the Great Dane is considered senior or elderly at 6 to 8 years of age. Dogs that weigh less than 30 pounds live the longest.

In a study involving more than 700 dogs and 77 different breeds, researchers found that a dog’s weight and size are the chief determining factors in a dog’s lifespan. It’s not unusual for a miniature poodle to live for 16 or 17 years, while a 12-year-old Labrador Retriever is considered an old dog. Giant breeds that weigh more than 100 pounds are considered geriatric when they reach 6 to 7 years of age.

A good rule of thumb is the larger the dog, the fewer years it will live. If you want a dog that will live for a long time you may want to consider adopting a mixed breed rather than a purebred, which on the whole usually have shorter lifespans than most mixed breeds.

When deciding between a male or female dog, remember that females tend to live a little longer than males, mimicking the human condition in this respect.

If you’re considering a purebred dog, it’s a good idea to research the types of ailments and diseases specific to the breed before deciding. Many large-breed dogs like Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds and Doberman Pinschers will develop hip dysplasia and the condition can become so serious that the dog will have to be euthanized.

Cancer is a common disease that can significantly shorten a dog’s lifespan, and some breeds like Boxers, Rottweilers, and Golden Retrievers have unusually high rates of cancer. Cancer is the most common cause of death in older dogs and nearly 42% of those dogs die from some form of cancer.

Flat-faced dogs such as Pugs and Shih Tzus, are predisposed to breathing problems that can cause overheating and even death. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are likely to develop a heart condition called mitral valve disease. Cocker Spaniels are susceptible to recurring ear and eye infections.

Being a responsible pet owner means seeing that your dog has the correct type and amount of nourishment, and proper exercise. Very important for a dog’s lifespan is the prevention of obesity which will help your dog live a longer, healthier life.

The American Kennel Club has published a list of the most popular dog breeds and their average life span:

Beagles — 12 to 14 years
Boston terriers — about 15 years
Boxers — 11 to 14 years
Bulldogs — 10 to 12 years
Chihuahuas — 15 years or more
Dachshunds — 12 to 14 years
Doberman Pinschers — 10 to 12 years
German Shepherd dog — 10 to 14 years
German shorthaired pointers — 12 to 15 years
Golden retriever — 10 to 12 years
Labrador retriever — 10 to 14 years
Miniature Schnauzers — 15 years or more
Pomeranians — 13 to 15 years
Poodles — 10 to 15 years
Pugs — 12 to 15 years
Rottweilers — 10 to 12 years
Shetland Sheepdogs — 12 to 14 years
Shih Tzu — 11 to 15 years
Yorkshire terrier — 12 to 15 years

Since 1990, Winston’s Joint System and Winston’s Pain Formula have helped heal over twenty thousand dogs from all over the world. Our staff specializes in hip dysplasia, arthritis and all joint, pain and mobility issues.

There is an excellent chance we can help your dog, so please contact us at: www.dogshealth.com or call our toll free number at 888-901-5557.

IS YOUR DOG IN PAIN?

Does Your Dog Have Trouble:

  • Walking?
  • Standing?
  • Getting up?

WE CAN HELP