I have a 14 year olda mini doxie, she sleeps most of the time loss of most of her sight and hearing otherwise in good health. About every two hours I put her out to potty. She is eating less and drinks about the same. About how long does this cycle last when I may need to make a decision?

This thread brings tears to my eyes - I've been in your shoes so many times.

I always relied on three things - the advice of my Vet (was the dog in pain or unhappy or depressed), my observations (along the same line) and - knowing my dogs very, very well - what I saw in their eyes.

My wonderful Vet, when I was concerned on one occasion about what I should do, what the quality of life was, said, "You love your dog. You want what is best for him. You'll know. Listen to your heart."

- and I knew when the time came.

What you do is entirely up to you, no one can find fault with you, you obviously took excellent care of her to get her to the age of 14. Because of the fact that she is female, she could hold on like this for years actually, what a doctor calls a lol (little old lady), it's like a patient in a coma, with Altzheimers, or in a persistent vegetative state. They still have some body functions and need nursing attention like you are providing.

I'm not reading that the dog is in a vegetative state or confused. Am I missing something?

I agree with Judy. Sorry Judy, had to spread the rep. Would have loved to give you a greenie. Your post brought tears to my eyes.

Shadow, I have a 15 year old dog, much the same as yours, no sight, loss of hearing, sleeps all day, etc. etc. In the last year I've questioned myself and the people on this site to the point where I'm sure we're all a bit crazy. ;)

Bottom line, if your dog isn't in pain, if you enjoy the time you have with her and she enjoys the time she has with you, then it's your call. You'll know when the time is right.

In the meantime, you've had 14 years with this precious family member, and that's longer then most. Enjoy the time you have left, and let her tell you when the time is right.

We're here for support if you need it and we love pictures, so share a few of your favorites, we'd love to see them. :)

I really don't have anything to add. Maybe, just that I am in a similar situation. I have a 10 year old Staffy, who is in excellent health, but some days his eyes could over, he can't stand, he won't eat, he can't move his leg. And I know his time is coming soon. All we can do is look in our hearts and look into our pets eyes, and make that final decision. It's one of those situations where something that feels so bad is the right decision.

Like every one else said, enjoy your time you have left with your baby. Best of luck.