As our canine companions age, their health and well-being become increasingly important. Thankfully, there are ways we can care for our senior dogs to help ensure they have a good quality of life.
In this post, we’ll discuss some tips for helping your elderly dog stay healthy and happy. By following these simple guidelines, you can make sure that your furry friend enjoys his golden years to the fullest!
What age is considered a senior dog
Before we talk about how to support your senior dog’s health, let’s first define what we mean by “senior.” Generally speaking, smaller breeds tend to have longer lifespans than larger breeds, so a toy poodle may not be considered a senior until he’s 10 or 11 years old, while a great dane may be considered a senior at just 6 or 7 years old.
Some common signs of aging in dogs include:
- Graying of the fur
- Loss of muscle mass
- Decreased activity level
- Difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position
- incontinence
Now you know when a dog is considered senior, let’s move on to how you can support your senior dog’s health.
What to feed a senior dog
As your dog ages, his metabolism will slow down and he may become less active. This means that he’ll require fewer calories than he did in his youth. It’s important to adjust his food intake accordingly to avoid obesity, which can put unnecessary strain on his joints and heart.
You may also want to consider switching your senior dog to a food that’s specifically formulated for older dogs. These diets often contain higher levels of fiber to support digestive health, as well as nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids that can help keep joints healthy.
How often you should feed a senior dog generally stays the same as when they were younger. However, if your dog is having trouble digesting his food or is losing weight, you may need to increase the frequency of meals or portion sizes.
Exercise for senior dogs
While your senior dog may not be as active as he was in his youth, it’s important to make sure he’s getting enough exercise. Exercise is essential for maintaining muscle mass, keeping joints healthy, and preventing obesity.
Of course, you’ll want to take your dog’s age and health into account when planning his exercise routine. Seniors with arthritis or other joint problems may not be able to go on long walks or runs like they used to. However, there are still plenty of ways to give them the exercise they need, such as:
- Taking shorter walks more frequently
- Playing fetch in a large, open space
- Going for a swim
- Doing short sessions of interactive play, like tug-of-war or catch
If your senior dog is struggling to walk, you can purchase a wagon or dog stroller to help him get around. This is a great option for dogs who still enjoy going on walks but can’t make it very far on their own.
Caring for a senior dog’s teeth
Dental disease is very common in senior dogs, so it’s important to take care of their teeth and gums as they age. The most common signs of dental disease include:
- Bad breath
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Red, inflamed gums
- Loss of appetite
To help prevent dental disease, brush your dog’s teeth regularly with a canine-specific toothpaste. You should also have his teeth checked and cleaned by a veterinarian at least once a year, especially when he’s a senior.
Managing arthritis in senior dogs
Arthritis is a common condition in senior dogs, especially those who are overweight. The symptoms of arthritis include:
- Limping
- Reluctance to exercise
- Stiffness after rest
- Pain when touched
There are tons of ways to help your senior dog manage his arthritis and enjoy a good quality of life. As we mentioned before, exercise is important for maintaining muscle mass and joint health. You may also want to consider supplements like glucosamine or chondroitin, which can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Additionally, there are also great tools for your home to help your dog out such as:
Unfortunately, arthritis cannot be cured, but there are many ways to help your furry friend feel more comfortable!
Dealing with incontinence in senior dogs
Incontinence is a common issue in senior dogs, especially females. The most common symptom of incontinence is leaking urine when your dog is sleeping or at rest.
If your senior dog is dealing with incontinence, there’s no need to feel embarrassed. This is a very common issue, and there are plenty of ways to manage it. The most important thing is to keep your dog clean and dry to prevent skin infections.
The easiest solution is providing your senior dog with pee pads or diapers. These can be placed in their sleeping area or wherever they spend most of their time. You’ll also want to make sure you’re taking them outside frequently to empty their bladder.
Incontinence can also be caused by health problems like bladder stones, UTIs, or diabetes. If you think your dog’s incontinence may be due to a health issue, make an appointment with your veterinarian.
Cognitive decline in senior dogs
Just like humans, senior dogs may experience cognitive decline as they age. This can manifest as confusion, disorientation, or even changes in behavior. For example, a senior dog who is normally very calm may suddenly become more anxious or agitated.
Cognitive decline is normal in senior dogs, but there are ways to help them stay sharp. Mental stimulation is important for keeping your dog’s mind active and engaged. Try teaching them new tricks, playing interactive games, or hiding their food around the house for them to find.
Additionally, there are supplements available that can help improve cognitive function in senior dogs. These include omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins E and B.
Final thoughts on how to care for a senior dog
Caring for a senior dog can be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. These furry friends have been by our side through thick and thin, and they deserve the best possible care in their golden years. By following the tips in this blog, you can help your senior dog stay healthy and happy well into their twilight years. Thanks for reading!
About the Author: Tim de Jong enjoys gathering and sharing scientific information about your favourite pet!