When Are Huskies Considered Seniors?

Being medium-sized dogs, Huskies and Husky mixes are considered seniors at between eight and 10 years of age.

During this phase of their lives, they tend to become less enthusiastic about going for long runs or engaging in vigorous play and more enthusiastic about relaxing and resting. Physical changes like graying fur around their muzzles and eyes, duller coats and decreased muscle mass are also common, as is their tendency to experience stiffness or difficulty moving, particularly after lengthy periods of rest. Behavioral changes such as increased anxiety, confusion and/or alterations in their sleep patterns may also occur, making regular check-ups with your vet essential.

Among the most common health issues faced by senior Huskies are: arthritis and hip dysplasia, leading to joint pain and stiffness that can affect their mobility; cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), which can result in vision loss; hearing loss; hypothyroidism, which can cause lethargy, skin problems and weight gain; dilated cardiomyopathy, which affects their hearts’ ability to pump blood efficiently, and certain autoimmune disorders. Once again, regular visits to your vet that include blood tests, eye exams and hearing tests are crucial both for early detection and for management of these conditions.

Good dental hygiene is extremely important for senior Huskies since they’re prone to plaque buildup, gum disease and tooth decay, which in turn, can cause pain, difficulty eating and, even worse, heart disease. Regular brushing of your Husky’s teeth with a dog-specific toothpaste, combined with dental chews and toys designed to clean teeth, help to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. But nothing is as effective as an annual dental check-up with your vet for a professional cleaning and for catching potential problems early. If, however, your Husky has bad breath, is drooling and/or is reluctant to eat, see your vet ASAP.

As their metabolism slows down, senior Huskies’ diets must be adjusted accordingly. Senior dog food formulas are not only lower in calories, they contain higher levels of protein and fiber, often include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin. Smaller, more frequent meals also help their digestion and prevent bloat. When in doubt, consult your vet about tailoring a diet plan to meet your Husky’s particular needs

Essential for senior Huskies’ health and mobility is at least 30 minutes of light to moderate exercise daily such as short walks, gentle outdoor playtime and/or indoor activities like fetching a soft toy. Exercise not only helps them maintain a healthy weight, it also strengthens their muscles and supports their joint health. And because mental stimulation is equally important to keep their minds sharp and prevent boredom, interactive toys like puzzle feeders are ideal as are training sessions that reinforce their basic commands. Consider, as well, ongoing socialization with other dogs or new people, and regularly rotating their toys and introducing new ones.

In order to keep your cherished senior Huskies happy and healthy for as long as possible, consider the following suggestions. Provide them with supportive orthopedic beds to relieve any pressure on their joints. Use ramps or pet steps if they’re having difficulty navigating stairs or getting onto and off furniture. Elevate their food and water bowls to reduce the strain on their necks and backs. Keep their living areas free from drafts, your home at a comfortable temperature and the overall environment quiet and calm to reduce their anxiety, especially if they’re either vision or hearing impaired.

And remember: whatever their physical or emotional changes, your senior Huskies are the same ones, loving and loyal, that so endeared them to you in the first place.