In a 2023 UK study, researchers interviewed 15 owners and 11 vet professionals. Most owners saw their dog's age-related changes as "just old age" and did not see regular check-ups as important without a specific problem. Vets said owners not noticing or not acting on changes was a main barrier to care.
RCVS KnowledgeMy old dog is losing teeth and slowing down. Is this just normal aging, or is something wrong?
This needs your vet’s judgement. This page only shares other owners’ experiences and public information. It is not medical advice.
What people do around the world
Keep up oral hygiene; red gums and tartar point to infection
Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine
Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical SciencesSee the vet if they suddenly become much less active
Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine
Texas A&M University School of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences「My mixed-breed dog has started slowing down and showing their age.」
Oct 2026Original post・infosec.exchange
Contact the vet about bad breath, drooling or trouble eating
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Cornell University College of Veterinary MedicineAvoiding stairs can be a sign of arthritis
Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan
Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan「My 13-year-old dog walked in the park again, stopping often and needing to be carried upstairs. I worry the cold is too hard on her.」
From the last quarter of life, check-ups and blood work every six months
Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan
Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of SaskatchewanKnow that gum disease, arthritis and cataracts can appear in old age
Tokyo Metropolitan Government pet care seminar (by a vet)
東京都保健医療局「My old girl is doing okay, but she can't climb onto the armchair without a cushion and needs help.」
Oct 2026
「My 10-year-old dog seems to hear less and sleeps all day. I wish his time would slow down.」
Oct 2026
「My 12-year-old dog has lost several front teeth in a row. Is this normal aging, or should I get it treated soon?」
Oct 2026
Updated 29 Oct 2026.