Old Dog Losing Weight and Muscle Mass
As they get older, many dogs do indeed get chunkier, but some actually start to lose weight. One may wonder, "Why is my dog losing weight?" This response may fall into one of two categories: either your dog's aging process requires a different balance in their diet, or there is an underlying condition that is causing symptoms of a larger issue.
Causes of Senior Dogs Losing Weight That Are a Problem
When weight loss occurs in older dogs, there are often eight underlying causes. Diseases of the liver and gallbladder, thirst, kidneys, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis are some of these issues. Your veterinarian needs to diagnose and treat each of these conditions. Most of these fundamental reasons will show up as additional weight-loss-related symptoms.
The best thing you can do for your senior dog that is losing weight is to observe them for the other symptoms so you can inform the vet so they can diagnose your dog quicker. The symptoms that can present with each condition are as follows.
Liver/gallbladder disease
- Lethargy
- Increased thirst
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Fever
- Pain
- Pale or yellow gums
- Yellowing of skin/eyes
Dehydration
- Dry gums
- Lethargy
- Sunken eyes
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Less urination
- Dark urine
Dental Issues
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty eating/chewing
- Bad breath
- Swollen or bleeding gums
Kidney disease
- Increased thirst
- Excessive urination (may contain blood)
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Pale gums
- Lethargy
Heart disease
- A chronic cough
- Tires easily
- Exercise intolerance
- Excessive panting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Restlessness
Diabetes
- Excessive thirst
- Excessive urination
- Increased appetite
- Lethargy
- Repeated urinary tract infections
Cancer
- Lethargy
- Unusual bleeding
- Lumps, bumps, or swelling
- Distended abdomen
- Limping or lameness
- Unusual urination – frequency or amount
Arthritis
- Wobbling
- Lameness
- Scuffing the toes
- Incontinence
What to Do If No Underlying Medical Issues are Causing the Weight Loss
It could be time to adjust your dog's diet if your veterinarian is unable to identify an underlying reason for the weight loss. Discuss your pet's current diet and the quantity of fiber, fat, and protein it is receiving with your veterinarian. They can advise you on what to feed an elderly dog that is eating but losing weight.
In Conclusion
If your senior dog is losing a significant amount of weight rapidly go to your veterinarian as soon as possible. If you are concerned about your dog's weight in general, bring it up with your veterinarian at your senior dog's bi-annual routine exam.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
