If your dog is between the ages of seven and ten, they may already be considered a senior. As dogs get older, they go through numerous physical and mental changes. Knowing how to properly care for your aging four-legged friend can help them remain happy and healthy well into their golden years. We’ve put together this guide to highlight some key aspects of caring for your senior pup.
Monitor Their Health
Keep a close eye on your senior dog’s health and alert your veterinarian to any changes. Getting semi-annual senior wellness checkups is crucial to catching problems early. Some common age-related issues include:
- Arthritis: Stiffness, trouble getting up or using the stairs. Glucosamine supplements may help.
- Cloudy eyes or vision loss: Can indicate cataracts or other eye issues. Avoid rearranging furniture.
- Lumps: Non-cancerous fatty tumors are common in older dogs. Have new lumps checked.
- Incontinence: Leaking urine or having accidents. Discuss medications or dog diapers.
- Hearing loss: May not respond to noises or commands. Use hand signals and vibrations to get their attention.
- Dementia: Disorientation, repetitive behaviors. Keep routines consistent. Confine at night for safety.
Track any concerning symptoms and discuss them with your vet. Bloodwork and other senior wellness tests can identify developing conditions. Addressing health problems promptly is the key to keeping your dog comfortable.
There are other age-related changes to watch for. As your dog’s organs and immune system undergo natural decline, they may be more prone to conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, cancer, and diabetes. Symptoms like increased thirst, weight loss, gastrointestinal issues, or loss of appetite could indicate the emergence of these problems. Catching them early greatly improves the chances of successful management.
You may also notice reduced stamina, decreased interest in play, and longer or more frequent napping. While some slowing down is normal, check with your vet if your senior dog seems persistently lethargic, irritable, or withdrawn. Pain, neurological issues, and undiagnosed conditions could be affecting their well-being. Your vet can recommend pain medication, lab tests, or other interventions to help boost their spirits and energy.
It’s also important to stay on top of grooming and coat care. Older dogs may shed more, have dry skin, or lose hair elasticity. Brush them frequently to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. Give them regular baths and trim overgrown hair around the eyes, ears, nails, and paw pads to maintain good hygiene. Schedule professional grooming if you need to — a healthy coat and skin go a long way in making your senior dog look and feel their best.
Adjust Their Diet
Proper nutrition is vital for senior dogs. Talk to your vet about an appropriate food and amount for your dog’s age and activity level. Some tips:
- Switch to a senior dog food formula with fewer calories and extra glucosamine, antioxidants, and omegas.
- Feed smaller, more frequent meals if they have digestive issues.
- Increase fiber to prevent constipation. Add cooked squash, greens, or pumpkin.
- Use elevated bowls to reduce neck strain.
- Keep water bowls fresh and full to aid hydration.
- Discuss joint supplements if they show symptoms of arthritis.
Proper nutrition gives aging dogs energy, improves mental sharpness, maintains bowel health, and keeps weight steady. Monitor their eating habits and adjust as needed.
Maximizing nutrition for senior dogs goes beyond just a quality dog food. You can further support their dietary needs by incorporating some homemade additions. Foods like lean cooked meat, eggs, tuna, carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes make tasty mix-ins! These provide extra protein for muscle maintenance, as well as vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
It’s also wise to avoid over-treating once they reach senior status. The extra calories can quickly lead to unhealthy weight gain. As tempting as it is to spoil your pup, be mindful of how many treats are being given to them, and don’t overdo it with table food. The bulk of their diet should come from complete senior dog food.
If your aging dog ever loses interest in eating or struggles to maintain body weight, talk to your vet right away. There are appetite stimulants, digestive enzyme supplements, and high-calorie gel products that can all help get their nutrition back on track. Proper eating keeps them energized and resilient against illness.
Update Their Exercise
Exercise remains important for senior dogs, but they may need some adjustments:
- Provide soft, orthopedic beds in their favorite sleeping spots. Use fluffy blankets and soft crate pads. Wash all bedding frequently, as senior dogs can be prone to accidents.
- Place yoga mats or rugs on slippery floors to provide better traction and prevent falls.
- Avoid allowing them on furniture they could injure themselves getting on or off of. Consider purchasing a dog ramp to help them up to the bed or couch if desired. Some pups may also need a ramp to get them safely in and out of the car.
- Keep their living space warm and free of drafts. They may need a sweater or coat for outdoor walks.
- Invest in a lift harness to aid mobility if they have leg weakness or arthritis.
- Play soothing music and use calming scents to reduce anxiety.
Finding ways to support their needs and make them cozy keeps your senior dog content. Pay attention to any difficulty moving or signs of pain and discuss options with your veterinarian.
Enjoy Their Golden Years
While caring for a senior dog’s physical health is important, making the most of your time together is just as essential:
- Keep up cherished routines and activities if they are still able to do them. Adapt if needed.
- Take advantage of their mellow temperament for extra bonding and cuddle time.
- Capture photos and videos of your beloved companion.
- Involve them in family activities and outings when possible.
- Shower them with love, praise, tasty treats, and their favorite toys.
- Appreciate each day with your senior best friend.
Caring for a senior dog has its challenges, but focusing on their quality of life can provide wonderful shared memories. With some adjustments to their routine care and a little extra patience, you can help your loyal companion live out their senior years feeling safe, comfortable, and truly adored.
As the parent of a senior dog, remembering to treasure the time with your furry family member is incredibly meaningful. Take every opportunity for extra one-on-one time. Long, slow walks are a great chance to bond and make happy memories. Find ways to include your senior dog in family activities that they feel up to. Let them relax in the yard while you garden. Bring them along in the car for short errands. Invite them into the kitchen during meal prep for tasty morsels and companionship. Adjust outings to their abilities — a picnic blanket under a shady tree replaces the long hike you used to take together. Prioritize shared joy!
Indulge your elderly pal in affection and positivity. Verbally praise them for any small successes like finishing a short walk or eating a full meal. Let them know they are loved and supported. Encourage children in your home to be gentle and always interact with care. Reinforce their training using only positive methods adapted for any cognitive or physical decline. Keep cues and requests simple and achievable.
If your senior dog has more advanced age challenges, don’t lose heart. Focus on finding new ways to connect, even if it’s just quiet time in the same room. Meeting them where they are today shows unconditional love. With patience, you can still find moments of happiness. Cherish your faithful companion and the many memories made on their life’s journey by your side.
