What are the signs my aging dog's quality of life is declining?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Cocker Spaniel | Male | neutered | 15 years and 1 month old
When is it time to euthanize our dog? He is about 15 years old, completely deaf, possibly almost blind (maybe cataracts), and runs into things?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on June 20th, 2016
When making the decision if it is time to say goodbye to a loved pet, I suggest making a list of 5 things Willie loves to do. If he is no longer able to do at least 3 of them, his quality of life has declined to a point where it may be time to say goodbye. It is never an easy decision to euthanize an animal, but it is in the best interest of that animal to do it when their quality of life declines significantly. Making these kind of decisions is something I help people with frequently, and I would be glad to consult with you further if that would help. You can press the "consult online" button under my answer if you would like to talk further with me.
220Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 27th, 2017
I'm so sorry you are facing this issue with Rusty! I work for a home euthanasia service, so this is something I face with clients all the time. I recommend making a list of five things Rusty loved to do. If he's no longer doing at least two of them, then his quality of life has declined to a point where euthanasia should be considered. Oftentimes, a dog is ready to go before we are ready to let them go, and they end up inadvertently suffering because of that. Really examine his quality of life, and if it's poor, then letting him go peacefully and without further pain will be a kindness to him. I'd be happy to consult with your further on this if you'd like, simply click the consult online button under my answer. Otherwise, I hope this has helped you, and again I'm sorry you have to face this issue :-(
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on June 26th, 2017
I'm so sorry Max isn't doing well, and it sounds like to me you are asking if it's time to let him go. I work for a home euthanasia service, so I face this question all the time with my clients. It's very important to look at a dog's quality of life when making these decisions. I recommend making a list of five things Max loved to do, and if he's no longer doing at least two of them, then his quality of life has declined to a point where euthanasia should be considered. It would be a gift to let a dog go peacefully who has a bad quality of life, even though it would be very hard for you to do. I hope this helps, and if you have any further questions, please feel free to request a consult with me for more in depth help.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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