Senior Dog Health Screening Guide — What Tests Dogs Need After Age 7

As dogs age, their risk for conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis increases significantly. Regular health screening helps catch problems early when they're most treatable and manageable.

When Is a Dog Considered Senior?

Senior status depends on size and breed:

• Giant breeds (90+ lbs): Senior by age 5-6

• Large breeds (50-90 lbs): Senior by age 6-7

• Medium breeds (25-50 lbs): Senior by age 7-8

• Small breeds (under 25 lbs): Senior by age 8-10

Generally, dogs are considered senior when they've reached the last 25% of their expected lifespan. This is when age-related health changes begin accelerating.

Recommended Screening Frequency

Senior Dogs (7-11 years): Comprehensive screening every 6 months

Geriatric Dogs (12+ years): Screening every 3-4 months

Healthy Adult Dogs (1-6 years): Annual screening for comparison

More frequent screening allows veterinarians to detect subtle changes in organ function before clinical symptoms appear, when treatment is most effective.

Essential Senior Dog Blood Tests

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Red Blood Cell Count: Screens for anemia, common in senior dogs due to chronic disease or poor nutrition

White Blood Cell Count: Detects infections or immune system changes that may indicate underlying illness

Platelet Count: Monitors blood clotting ability, which can be affected by medications or disease

Comprehensive Chemistry Panel

Kidney Function (BUN, Creatinine): Kidney disease affects 10-15% of senior dogs. Early detection allows dietary and medical management.

Liver Enzymes (ALT, ALP): Elevated liver values may indicate liver disease, Cushing's disease, or medication effects.

Blood Sugar (Glucose): Diabetes becomes more common with age. Early detection prevents serious complications.

Protein Levels: Changes in protein can indicate kidney disease, liver problems, or malnutrition.

Thyroid Function Test

Total T4 screening detects hypothyroidism, which affects 5-10% of senior dogs and causes weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems. Treatment with thyroid hormone is highly effective.

Additional Screening Tests

Urinalysis

• Detects urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes

• Checks urine concentration ability

• Screens for blood, protein, or abnormal cells

Blood Pressure Measurement

High blood pressure affects 10% of senior dogs and can damage kidneys, heart, and eyes. Regular monitoring allows early intervention.

Chest X-rays

Annual chest radiographs screen for heart disease, lung problems, and cancer. Many conditions are detectable before symptoms appear.

Common Age-Related Conditions

Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease affects 10-15% of senior dogs. Early stages show no symptoms, but bloodwork reveals elevated BUN and creatinine levels. Special diets and medications can slow progression.

Diabetes

Increased water consumption and urination are early diabetes signs. Blood glucose testing confirms diagnosis, and insulin therapy provides excellent management.

Heart Disease

Heart murmurs develop in 10% of senior dogs annually. Early detection through physical exams and chest X-rays allows medical management before heart failure develops.

Cancer

Cancer affects 1 in 4 dogs and becomes more common with age. Regular physical exams, bloodwork, and imaging help detect cancer early when treatment options are best.

Arthritis

Joint disease affects 80% of dogs over age 8. Physical exams detect decreased mobility, and pain management medications significantly improve quality of life.

Understanding Test Results

Senior dogs often show gradual changes in bloodwork values:

Kidney Values: BUN and creatinine may slowly increase as kidney function declines

Liver Enzymes: May fluctuate due to medications, age-related changes, or developing conditions

Red Blood Cell Count: May decrease slightly due to chronic inflammation or kidney disease

Protein Levels: Changes can indicate muscle loss, kidney problems, or liver disease

Understanding your dog's bloodwork helps you ask informed questions and make better decisions about their care.

Cost Considerations

Senior screening packages typically include:

• Comprehensive physical exam

• Complete blood count (CBC)

• Full chemistry panel

• Thyroid function test

• Urinalysis

• Blood pressure measurement

Total cost ranges from $300-500, though many practices offer senior packages at a discount. Pet insurance often covers preventive care including senior screenings.

Making the Most of Senior Exams

Before your senior dog's appointment:

• Note any behavior or appetite changes

• Track water consumption and urination habits

• List current medications and supplements

• Bring previous lab results for comparison

• Prepare questions about diet, exercise, and supplements

Between Screenings: What to Watch For

Contact your veterinarian if you notice:

• Changes in appetite, water consumption, or urination

• Decreased activity level or reluctance to exercise

• Difficulty getting up, climbing stairs, or jumping

• Changes in breathing pattern or exercise tolerance

• New lumps, bumps, or changes in existing masses

• Behavioral changes like confusion or anxiety

Related Reading

• Dog CBC (Complete Blood Count) Explained – understanding blood cell counts in senior dogs

• Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats – kidney disease information for cat owners

• Dog Health Certificate – health documentation requirements

Frequently Asked Questions