Monitor mobility, muscle condition, cognitive function, body condition, and overall quality of life as your dog ages.
🐾 Senior Wellness Assessment Tool
Senior Dog Assessment
Monitor mobility, muscle condition, cognitive function, body condition, and overall quality of life as your dog ages.
When Is a Dog Considered a Senior?
Dogs age at different rates depending on breed and size. Most dogs begin entering their senior years between 7 and 10 years of age. Regular monitoring helps identify changes early and supports long-term health and comfort.
Small Breeds
Typically senior around 8–10 years
Medium Breeds
Typically senior around 7–9 years
Large Breeds
Typically senior around 6–8 years
Mobility Assessment
Walking
Normal gait
No limping
Comfortable movement
Stairs
Uses stairs normally
No hesitation
No assistance required
Rising
Gets up easily
No stiffness
No struggle
Exercise
Maintains normal activity
No early fatigue
No reluctance
Cognitive Health Assessment
Orientation
Recognizes family
Navigates normally
Sleep
Normal sleep cycle
Restful sleep
Interaction
Engages with family
Responds to cues
House Habits
Normal routines
No confusion
Muscle Condition Assessment
Aging dogs may lose muscle mass even when body weight remains unchanged. Evaluate the thighs, shoulders, spine, and head for signs of muscle loss.
Normal
Good muscle coverage
Athletic appearance
Mild Loss
Slight reduction in muscle mass
Subtle changes in body shape
Significant Loss
Visible muscle wasting
Prominent bones
Weakness
🚨 Red Flags
Disorientation
Nighttime pacing
Staring into corners
House-soiling changes
Failure to recognize familiar people
Weight & Body Condition
Monitor body weight and body condition score monthly. Unexpected weight loss or gain may indicate an underlying medical issue.
Quality of Life Assessment
Evaluate each category based on your dog’s current condition.