Which of the following is a common senior dog disease identified in primary care service?

• A. Dental disease
• B. Diabetes mellitus
• C. Hip dysplasia
• D. Skin cancer

Answer: (A)

Dental health is extremely common in senior dogs and is something primary care visits routinely uncover. As dogs age, periodontal disease becomes widespread, starting with gingivitis and tartar buildup and potentially progressing to loss of tooth support. This makes dental disease the most frequently identified problem in older dogs during routine wellness exams. Owners may notice bad breath, reluctance to eat, or facial swelling, but many cases are detected through a thorough oral exam and dental radiographs in the primary care setting. Addressing dental disease is important not only for comfort and chewing function but also because oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to issues in the heart, kidneys, or liver.

While diabetes mellitus, hip dysplasia, and skin cancer are also concerns in aging dogs, they are not as universally encountered across the senior population in everyday primary care as dental disease. Diabetes is less common than dental disease, hip dysplasia is more breed- and age-specific, and skin cancer, though important, varies widely in prevalence.