Senior Dog Comfort & Care

The sequel to Grumpy Old Men should have been Grumpy Old Dogs. Some dogs will turn into a real grouch, although many remain carefree and friendly throughout their lives. Grumpiness can be normal, like not wanting to put up with the shenanigans of a young pup. Some no longer have the patience to tolerate what they once did, so they need a quiet place to retreat. However, there are medical issues that can make dogs irritable. These conditions, such as arthritis (Tip #48), dental disease (Tip #49), cancer (Tip #47), and more, cause pain that affects your dog’s attitude and behavior.

Changes in eyesight and hearing can cause senior dogs to be fearful and make them withdraw from family. While being grouchy may be a rite of passage that your dog has earned, it’s best to ensure there are no contributing medical issues (especially if you notice a sudden change in behavior).