It is hard to watch your pet get older. Of course, every pet ages differently, the same goes for people. Some dogs will be active up until their final days; others can struggle with illness and other complications that can make everything more difficult for them in the later stages of their lives.

It has been said that every human year is the equivalent to seven dog years, but this figure is not necessarily accurate. Age in dogs varies depending on their size and breed. Larger dogs are considered seniors at six to seven years old, while smaller dogs don’t reach “senior” status until their teen years.

As your dog ages, he or she will start to gray around the face during “middle age,” which is about five to six years old.

Dogs slow down with age. At first, the changes will be subtle. You’ll notice a difference in how your pup gets up and lies down or how they approach climbing stairs. An older dog will hesitate before steps and you may notice stiffness when they go to curl up in their bed. It is not uncommon for an older dog to develop arthritis in their legs, neck and spine. Walks won’t be as long as they used to be, and hikes, jogs and swim sessions may be much more difficult.

As dogs age their hearing and eyesight are often reduced. Older dogs can get startled if you approach them from behind, because they simply can’t hear you coming as well as they could before. You’ll notice a bluish haze in your pup’s eyes that will appear in the pupil area. Though the haze does not affect eyesight, it can lead to the development of cataracts, which will appear white and opaque. If this occurs, it is best to consult with a veterinarian and be sure to protect your pet from hazards, as it will be harder for them to look out for themselves.

The most important thing you can do is to stay positive and remember that no mater what, your senior dog’s love and loyalty will never decline or go away. Similarly, it’s critical that you stay informed and conscious about your dog’s health during their senior years.

So, how can you make life easier for your senior dog and provide support for them when they need it most in their old age?