Who Knows about dogs ?

Question

My westie will be 7 in August. She is the first dog I have owned.
I have recently noticed that she is slower and not so "springy" on walks.
We often go out with my friend and her two younger dogs and she doesn't race with them like she used to.

She had a check up in October and was perfectly healthy. I asked about joint stiffness and the vet examined her legs carefully and said there was nothing remarkable.

She is not over weight.

Do dogs just natrually slow down at this age.

If a dog year is 7 of our years she is only 49.

Thanks for any help

Well I'm fast approaching 40 and yes I feel as energetic as I did at twenty, so I hopefully will at 50

Danush - why would you assume I did not get my dog from a reputable breeder?
I love dogs and take my responsibility as a dog owner seriousl.
That included choosing a puppy with care!

Answer 1

lf your Westie has just slowed down on walks and playing with other dogs but seems alright in every other way then it just appears she is mellowing as she is getting older and woud be nothing to get worried about.
ls she speyed? An un-speyed female can suffer problems around this age.
Your dog should have many happy years ahead of her but may benefit from some additives and change of diet at this age.
As you are obviously concerned about your dog l think you should take her back to your vet for another full health check or consider taking her to a different vet if you have doubts that your vet is taking your concerns seriously. Even if this just gives you some peace of mind.
l would only be concerned about my dogs if the change in them occured quickly (overnight) as the slow ageing of our dogs is inevitable and something we all have to live with.
l also think as a first time owner you are worrying yourself about your dog ageing and how you will cope when she is old, maybe you're thinking about when she was a puppy and into everything? With a caring owner like yourself, good diet, gentle excercise and good vetinary assistance when needed your girl will be with you for many years to come so try not to worry yourself and enjoy the time you have with your girl.

Answer 2

Yes, I think dogs do slow down with age. Dogs age at different rates so don't expect your westie is necessarily 49!
I have a 13 year old mongrel. she started slowing down probably around 7. She still loves to play, but she sleeps more, can,t be bothered with other dogs as much and isn't always in front when we go for a walk. Saying that, she's still up for chasing squirrels!
Don't worry about your little dog. As long as she isn't in pain or fat, she'll grow old gracefully! Plenty of years ahead of her yet!

Answer 3

Welll - October was 6 months ago, so it's not impossible that joint changes could've occured between now and then. You might want to consider another joint check with the vet, and then they can advise you on any supplements to help her along in her advanced age. Certainly take her if she starts to show any limping/stiffness/pain. A telltale sign of arthritis in the hips is running with both back legs in unison (like a bunny), particularly when going down stairs.

Chalice

Answer 4

It's true that your dog's not a puppy anymore! Slowing down somewhat is normal, but at 7 years your Westie could have another good 10 years, so if she seems REALLY elderly, that's when you'd want to be concerned about arthritis or similar. If it's simply a mellowing out, though, don't worry.

Answer 5

Don't fret about her - she has reached the age in life where she deserves to take things more slowly.
If the vet has confirmed that she doesn't have any emerging joint problems there is nothing to worry about.
You know your dog and if you think that she is a bit stiff (to be expected if shes had a full and active life) then just make sure she has enough time before walks to loosen up and that she has soft, comfortable bedding.

Answer 6

Many dogs, and humans, slow down as they grow older. Not all dogs and people slow, but many do. Saying a small dog is in her forties because of the 'seven year' trick is a bit inaccurate. Small breeds live longer than large breeds and each size dog follows a different 'aging chart' For example, my 5 year old Jack Russel is still the equivalant of a person in their early twenties rather than one who is in their thirties. Sometimes a change in food will change how active they want to be, and daily walks will help perk up your dog. Hope that I was help.

Answer 7

Dogs are considered Seniors at age 7. She is could just be slowing down. One thing i would suggest is to get her tested for Lyme disease and Ehrlichia. That can effect her joints also. I would also suggest that she be put on a Senior diet ( you can also put her on Hills's Prescription diet B/D which is a senior dog food that can help bring back the pep in your dog) and put her on glycoflex stage I which is a glucosamine supplement which works like oil in rusty hinges. Lubes up the joints. This could help your dog walk a little easier or peppier. Good luck!

Answer 8

With a life expectancy of up to 15 years, your Westie has alot of life left in her.

Have there been any changes to her diet and exercise routine?

It sounds as though she is just slowing down a bit. Contact your breeder to find out if her parents are the same way. Contact other westie owners to see if they have any explanation. I'm sure she is fine.

Answer 9

A Westie at 7 should still ahve plenty of bounce. I think another check up is needed. It may be that she is developing arthritis although I did not think that WEsties are particularly prone to that so some glucosamine may help, but the first port of call is the vet

Answer 10

Your dog is only 49. I am guessing you didn't get it from a non-reputable breeder. Dogs will slow just like humans. As long as no big changes in normal routines and vet checks she is pretty normal.Keep her inside and happy!