When is a dog considered a senior? That's a great question, and the answer varies for each dog.

Factors Determining Senior Age

Typically, larger dogs are considered seniors earlier than smaller dogs. For example, a Great Dane may be considered a senior at 5, while a Chihuahua might not reach senior status until around 10. Generally, dogs are considered seniors from the age of 7. Most pet insurance companies won’t cover dogs older than 9.

Consult Your Veterinarian

Several factors contribute to determining if your Silver Woof is a senior. Consult your veterinarian to assess your dog's specific needs and start taking steps to care for aging joints immediately (refer to hacks 1, 2, & 3).

Early Preparation

Preparing for an aging dog starts early. Implement a maintenance plan for joint health (jumping high for balls repetitively causes long-term damage to maturing joints) and ensure a good diet for overall well-being. Remember that a lean dog tends to live longer and with more comfort.

Note* The advice on this page is general and may not suit every dog. The Silver Woof team highly recommends consulting your veterinarian before making changes to your Silver Woof’s environment, routine, or diet.