Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 9 years and 6 months old | 8 lbs
Hi. I have a small terrier/chihuahua mix who just turned 8 years old. I remembered reading somewhere that that was considered in te geriatric range for her size. Should I take her in for a physical to see if I should change her food or excerxise, care etc.?
1 Answer
Published on April 4th, 2019
Lady should have a physical exam at least once a year regardless of her age because pets age much faster than humans. Geriatric pets should get an exam every 6 months and bloodwork at least once a year. Small breed dogs are considered geriatric at 9 years old. At that time, she should definitely have an exam and a discussion about different foods, exercise recommendations, bloodwork...etc. Good job on thinking proactively! I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.
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