Your best canine friend may not be as young as he used to be, but that doesn’t mean his life has to be any less fun or rewarding. Senior dogs can be just as joyous, playful, and loving as ever, but they need some life adjustments to stay healthy and safe.
1. Creating healthy habits for older dogs
Just like their Pet Parents, aging puts senior dogs at higher risk for heart issues, cancer, and more. Early detection is key to prevent or manage these conditions, so make biannual veterinarian visits a priority to ensure your dog is up to date on all his vaccinations.
2. Senior-proof your home
Those joints aren’t what they used to be! Make your home easier to navigate by adding small ramps or lifts to your senior dog’s favorite resting spots. Arrange furniture to eliminate obstacles or blind spots in their hangout spaces. You can add area rugs to rooms with hardwood or tile floors to make walking a little easier for your buddy, too.
3. Adjust exercise to appropriate levels
Staying active is important for a senior dog. Work with your veterinarian to determine exercise habits that can keep your pal moving and grooving.
4. Keep the mind sharp
As your dog’s physical activities decrease, look for ways to keep the brain of your wise old pooch stimulated. Trade out one of your tug matches with a puzzle or treat-search game.
5. Their diet may be due for a remix
In addition to switching to senior formula dog foods, your older dog may need extra supplements found in new treats, canine vitamins, or condition-focused diets. Work with your veterinarian to determine a personalized diet that keeps your dog spry and alert.
6. Watch their waistline
A few extra pounds will have an impact on your senior dog’s aging frame. Be consistent about feeding and exercise to keep your good old dog at an optimal weight. Their metabolism slows down considerably as they age so it’s important to keep on an eye on the scale and their body shape. Check our weight management guide to see examples of what ideal weights can look like in your cat or dog.
Maintaining lean muscle mass goes hand-in-hand with a healthy weight — both alleviate the stress on your dog’s joints which need extra attention and love as they age.
7. Clean teeth support a clean bill of health
Weak teeth and unhealthy gums may lead to heart and kidney issues in senior dogs, so regular brushing, dental treats, and veterinarian visits are crucial to well-being. Bonus: Your pal’s kisses will be fresher than ever!
8. Step up your grooming game
With all those (well-deserved) naps taking the place of fetch, increased inactivity could lead to matting and skin irritation. More consistent grooming will keep your dog’s silver-speckled coat shiny and soft.
9. Revisit their social circle
As their energy and activity levels change, so might your dog’s desire to be in the center of all the action. A dog park full of chipper puppies may rejuvenate one elder dog, but quiet playdates with a like-minded senior may be the right speed for another.
10. Make your senior dog more comfortable
Why not spoil him a little in old age? From impromptu trips to the park to cushioned beds, there are plenty of healthy ways to add some extra comfort and excitement to your dog’s golden years. He’s earned it.
