Diet For The Aging Dalmatian

As they age, their metabolism slows and must be accounted for. If maintenance rations are fed in the same amounts while metabolism is slowing, weight gain may result. Obesity is the last thing a dog owner wants for his Dalmatian, since it increases his risk of several other health-related problems.

As pets age, most of their organs do not function as well. The digestive system, the liver, pancreas and gallbladder are not functioning at peak effect. The intestines have more difficulty extracting all the nutrients from the food consumed. A gradual decline in kidney function is considered a normal part of aging.

Elderly dogs need to be treated as individuals. While some benefit from the nutrition found in "senior" diets, others might do better on the highly digestible puppy and super-premium diets. The latter diet provide an excellent blend of digestibility and amino acid content, though many are high in salt and phosphorus than the older pet really needs. Older Dalmations have specific needs. Their joints often become weak and painful, and medication is needed for comfort. They sometimes have circulation problems, and tumors can be common, also eyesight and hearing can become weaker or fail.

Unsprayed females can be subject to mammary tumors, uterine infection and other diseases.

Un-neutered males could sometimes suffer from prostatic cancer. Older dogs should be seen by the Vet regularly for tests and physical examinations, so any

problems that need attention are dealt with early.

Older dogs are also more prone to developing arthritis and therefore it is important not to over feed them since obesity puts added stress on the joints. For Dalmatians with joint pain, supplementing the diet with fatty acid combinations containing cislinoleic acid, gamma-linolenic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid can be quite beneficial.

Exercise should be continued but should be reduced to shorter treks that are repeated often if the dog desires, but take care not to tire your elderly dog, or exercise if the weather Is too hot or on excessively cold days. Always give your ageing Dal a warm and soft place to sleep.