The dog is alive but slowing down 2-08-11

I know that big dogs don't live a long time. I am also aware that purebreds don't live as long as mutts. Unfortunately, my Samoyed is both. She is pretty big at 83 pounds, and she is a purebred with AKC papers. She comes from a long line of big, furry sled dogs that shed, whine,yip. and mooch all day long. Lately, she has been sleeping more and more. Her arthritis is under control for now with a human arthritis medication, a number of holistic ones, and a daily exercise regimen that is carefully planned and plotted out by Sarasota's number one personal trainer. When I catch her laying down and licking her knees, I know that I am dealing with a flare-up and adjust everything accordingly. During a remission last week, we were out on a walk when she spied a squirrel. She was off her leash at the time and actually broke into a TROT for 20 feet or so! My dog will be 10 on April 1st. I am told that is very, very old for this breed. I sure would like to squeeze another year out of her. Stay tuned.