Skin Diseases in Senior Dogs

Senior dogs become more vulnerable to skin and coat problems in their advancing years. Their skin becomes dry and as the oil secreting glands slow down their coat loses some of the shine it had when they were younger.

Grooming and attention to the skin and coat becomes more important in senior dogs as they become more vulnerable to attacks on their skin by parasites, allergies and environmental irritants. An itchy skin in a senior dog requires immediate intervention as secondary infections can soon occur.

Medicated baths and a mild dog shampoo will keep your dog's skin and coat in good condition. Don't use a hair dryer as this can be damaging on his dry sensative skin. Thick towels are a better option. Check his skin regularly and look for any unusual growths so that early treatment can be given, complications can set in early in older dogs.

Senior dogs are not as active as they were so their nails may need to be trimmed more often or they could damage their skin by scratching themselves too energetically. Flea bites can cause major infections at this age, so make sure your flea control program is up to date.

Senior dogs can't look after their own skin so it's important, after all the years of companionship your dog has given you, to be able to make him comfortable and happy in his later years by spending a little time pampering him. Grooming your senior dog is not only meant to make him look better but also to protect his skin which is the first line of defense for his body.