Concerns about 8 year old Doberman.

[Chad]

I have a male Dobe who will be turning 8 years old early in the fall. He has drawn my attention lately because the weather has been unusually cool here this summer, and after walking for 35-45 minutes he will pant heavily for roughly an hour afterwards. He also seems hesitant to walk at times. He completed his yearly check-up several months ago, and the vet said he was fine. Should I be concerned or is this normal for an older Dobe after he is exercised? I walk him every day for 35-45 minutes, sometimes twice, so he couldn't possibly be out of shape.

[Dobs4ever]

A regular vet check up might not reveal problems with the heart. For that you really need to see a cardiologist - or do a holter monitor and/or echo. that is what it sounds like just on the surface. Older dogs do not slow down that much at only 8.

[Sue J]

I agree with dobes4ever. Does he cough?

[Chad]

He never coughs.

[RKCM]

I would talk to my vet about this. What is the temperament? I can say that the older you get, the less energy you have. Being in shape is good but does not prevent us from aging.

Let us know.

[jelly8bean]

At 8 he should still have plenty of energy. Especially if you walk regularly. This is not normal and I'm with the others saying - Vet Check!