Is it "normal" for older dogs to sleep/nap all but a few hours a
day? I have a 14+ year old bearded collie. Like many dogs his age -
he is gradually loosing his eyesight and hearing, occasionally needs a
"butt" boost to help him into the car. Otherwise he is in very good
health. However, he sleeps more and more. If I am not interacting w/
him though - he curls up and sleeps, and sleeps, and sleeps more.
When he is awake - I can still get him to run around and play- so
there are no other changes, other than those that I mentioned. Eats
well, and is maintaining all other "functions". Is this just "senior-
itis"?

"muse06" wrote in news:1174271942.314566.5440
@l75g2000hse.googlegroups.com:

Is it "normal" for older dogs to sleep/nap all but a few hours a
day? I have a 14+ year old bearded collie. Like many dogs his age -
he is gradually loosing his eyesight and hearing, occasionally needs a
"butt" boost to help him into the car. Otherwise he is in very good
health. However, he sleeps more and more. If I am not interacting w/
him though - he curls up and sleeps, and sleeps, and sleeps more.
When he is awake - I can still get him to run around and play- so
there are no other changes, other than those that I mentioned. Eats
well, and is maintaining all other "functions". Is this just "senior-
itis"?





Has this been a gradual trend or something that has come about very
recently?

Something to consult your vet about nonetheless however my guess is the
pup is getting older and wants to sleep/rest. He is winding down, but
aren't we all?


Dogs develop heart disease/arthritis etc etc just like humans and may
need extra rest to get comfort.

Please, let us know how this develops.


--
The Whole World Bites!

Mr. Metaxa