Elderly Golden Retriever

[Al Haley]

One of our Golden Retrievers is almost 14 years old. For the past few days she has not been eating her regular amount of food. In addition the hard biscuit type treats she normally loves don't interest her at all but the soft chewy ones do. Can her age affect her appetite? All other bodily functions appear normal her regular food and treats have remained the same for years, any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks very much the help.

Al Haley and Sheba

[herman]

Hi Al,

I can tell you from past experience that my pet's appetite decreased in her later years.

Your dog is 14 and is getting much older, probably moving around a lot less, and therefore might not be as hungry as she once was.

Also just like older humans, dogs go get upset stomachs as they age especially if they've eaten something they shouldn't have.

I'd keep an eye on her to make sure she's eating and drinking regularly (even if the quantity is slightly lower).

....Any drastic changes in weight or appetite however, are more serious and should be checked out.

herman