Just like people, older dogs become more prone to illness. In Samoyeds, loose teeth, fading color on the nose, and reduced appetite are all signs of aging and physical decline. At this stage, body functions weaken, and the risk of hip dysplasia, diabetes, and cataracts increases significantly. Owners should be especially careful and do their best to improve the dog's quality of life.
What signs show that a Samoyed is getting old?
As a Samoyed gets older, several changes usually appear. First, teeth may loosen or fall out, and skin pigmentation becomes lighter, with the fading of nose color being especially noticeable. Second, the dog becomes less interested in intense activity and its gait becomes slower. Third, appetite often declines and food intake decreases. Samoyeds usually live around 13 to 15 years, and after about eight years of age they begin to show more obvious signs of being senior dogs. At that point, owners should adjust feeding and daily care to prepare for old age.
Common diseases in senior Samoyeds
Hip dysplasia is a common hereditary disease in Samoyeds and often becomes more obvious in old age. In severe cases, the dog may become almost unable to move. If your Samoyed moves both hind legs together when walking, sways its hips, dislikes activity, prefers sitting, gets up awkwardly, or does not want to climb steps, these may all be signs of hip dysplasia.
Another common problem in older Samoyeds is diabetes. In general, female dogs are considered somewhat more likely to develop it than males. Typical symptoms include increased drinking, increased urination, much greater appetite combined with weight loss, and in severe cases, the condition may threaten life. Dogs from colder regions also have a relatively high risk of eye diseases such as cataracts, and Samoyeds are no exception. Their eyes are rather delicate, so owners should avoid walking them under strong midday sunlight, especially when they are elderly, because senior Samoyeds are more likely to develop cataracts.