How to Assess Your Dog’s Quality of Life with Confidence

There is a huge world of difference between simply surviving and truly living, and this is what we generally refer to as quality of life. For dog owners, understanding this difference is crucial, especially when managing older dogs or those with health issues.

Quality of life is more than just being alive; it encompasses how meaningful and enjoyable your dog's life is. A dog in constant pain, with limited mobility, poor appetite, or distress can have a poor quality of life even if alive.

Veterinarians and owners often work together to evaluate quality of life when considering treatments, surgeries, or, in difficult decisions, euthanasia. This evaluation is nuanced and considers multiple factors rather than a simple checklist.

In this guide, we explore the key areas to assess your dog’s quality of life so you can make compassionate, informed decisions to support your beloved pet's wellbeing.

1. Pain and Discomfort

Pain is a critical indicator of quality of life. Some dogs manage mild discomfort well, but severe or constant pain significantly affects wellbeing. Observe your dog for signs of pain such as whimpering, reluctance to move, or changes in behaviour.

Medications or therapies can often ease pain; always discuss with your vet about pain management options tailored to your dog's needs.

2. Eating and Drinking Normally

A healthy dog generally looks forward to meals. Changes in appetite, difficulty eating, or the need for supplemental feeding can indicate issues affecting quality of life.

Similarly, being able to drink and stay hydrated is vital. If your dog cannot drink unaided or requires supplemental fluids regularly, this impacts their wellbeing and should be carefully considered.

3. General Condition and Hygiene

While dogs are not typically extraordinarily clean animals, basic hygiene matters. Difficulty with toileting or a smelly, dull coat can cause discomfort and distress.

Monitor if your dog can maintain toileting habits independently and if their coat is healthy. Assistance with grooming and toileting may be necessary for some dogs to maintain good quality of life.

4. Mobility and Comfort Moving

Mobility often declines with age or illness, but being able to move comfortably is essential for mental and physical health.

Consider how easily your dog can get up, move around, and lie down without pain. If mobility is severely compromised, it usually affects happiness and daily functioning.

5. Mental Awareness and Interaction

Mental health is just as important as physical health.

Some older dogs experience cognitive decline, such as canine dementia, which manifests as confusion or forgetting familiar people. Observing your dog's recognition of you and their environment can indicate their mental wellbeing.

6. Happiness and Emotional Wellbeing

Happiness is a core part of quality of life. Some dogs remain upbeat despite challenges, while others may become stressed or depressed.

If your dog still greets you joyfully, wags their tail, and shows signs of pleasure, this is a strong positive sign.

7. Tracking Good Days Versus Bad

Keeping a diary of your dog's daily condition, mood, and activity can help you and your vet decide if your dog is having more good days than bad.

Several quality of life scales, such as the HHHHHMM scale, help assess pain, hunger, hydration, hygiene, happiness, mobility, and more good days than bad. Each category is scored to guide decisions compassionately.

Consult your veterinarian to use these tools effectively and to discuss your dog's unique needs.

Remember, quality of life assessment is an ongoing process that requires love, observation, and partnership with your vet to do what's best for your dog.