How would you describe an old dog? Get Your Pet Thinking

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Words to describe dogs starting with the letter H

HAPPY, HAPPY-GO-LUCKY, HAPPY HELLOS, HANDSOME, HAIRY, HAIRLESS, HEALERS, HEART-TOUCHING, HARD-WORKING, HELPFUL, HUMBLE, HIGH-SHEDDING, HILARIOUS, HYPOALLERGENIC, HONEST, HEROIC…HEART-MENDER

At What Age Is a Dog Considered a Senior?

Although most people think that one human year of age equals seven dog years, it’s not that simple. Because individual dog breeds age at a different pace than others, the age a dog is considered a senior will vary with the size and breed.

In general, large dog breeds age more quickly than small dog breeds. Below is a guide based on breed size:

  • Small breeds are considered senior dogs around 10-12 years old.
  • Medium size breeds are considered senior dogs around 8-9 years old.
  • Large and giant breeds are considered senior dogs around 6-7 years old.

    • The most common sign of aging that dog parents share with me is that their pup is “slowing down, so he must be getting old.” This is partly true.

    While older dogs likely will be slower, slowing down is not usually a sign of aging. It can, however, be a sign of joint pain, which is common in older dogs.

    Some aging signs to look for, other than the date on the calendar, include:

  • Muscle loss
  • Weight gain or loss
  • White hairs on the muzzle and face
  • Increased opacity in the eyes due to thickening of the lens over time (may be mistaken for cataracts)
  • Sleeping more or difficulty sleeping
  • Changes in behavior associated with canine dementia, such as staring blankly at walls or corners
  • Loss of hearing
  • Gum disease

    • If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it is time to get your veterinarian involved to help you improve your companion’s quality of life. Schedule a veterinary checkup to discuss ways to help your aging dog.

    An A to Z list of words to describe dogs

    So while humans search for the words, our puppers are just happy to hear our soft, reassuring, or cheerful voices. According to vcahospitals.org, it’s not so much what we say but how we say it that our pooches pick up on.

    So snuggle up with your pup and check out this ultimate list of adjectives, endearments, and short phrases. Then try saying your favorites aloud to your dog in a gentle or cheerful tone of voice. Your dog will probably love it.

    And if you’re searching for more word-related topics, please check out our complete and cute guide to doggo lingo or watch our video of a Goldendoodle dog retrieving happy words for you.

    How would you describe your dog?