Senior Dogs: Proper Care and What to Expect

Whilst lots of families usually receive their dogs as puppies, there are many perks to having a senior dog.

They are generally gentle, wise and content and may even rock an adorable looking gray muzzle too. 

As for caring for old dogs, as you can enjoy leisurely walks together rather than energetic runs and share similar temperaments that you’ve both well established over the years. Whether you are both stubborn souls or gentle pushovers, one thing is for sure and that’s that you’ve both got a whole lot of love to give.

You may be wondering, at what age is my dog actually classed as a senior dog? There is no real age to put on it. After all, you’re only as old as you feel – right?

When it comes to what to expect with an aging dog, there’s a difference in each dog. Lar breeds such as a Great Dane may be classed as senior earlier on (between 68 years) whilst smaller breeds such as a Chihuahua is generally a little later, 1011 years). What age is classed as a senior?

This is all entirely dependent on how quickly their health, bodies and personalities age. 

So what could your dog be experiencing as they age?

Unfortunately, senior dogs (much like you and I), are more susceptible to health issues.  

This can include general degenerative diseases like arthritis, dental care, decrease in control of their bladder, lumps that change in size or shape, etc. 

There are several signs to look out for in your senior dog such as slowing down, unwillingness to exercise or eat, excessive sleeping and unusual behaviours. Whilst these can be deemed a normal part of caring for old dogs, they may also be common alerts that something is wrong.

Check here for a list of red flags that you should be extra careful to look out for in regards to elderly dog care:

• Change in your dog’s weight
• Change in your dog’s appetite
• Change in your dog’s water intake
• Incontinence or increased urination
• Bad breath
• Difficulty chewing
• Lumps changing in size or shape on your dog’s body
• Slowing down

Of course, your main concern should be any medical issues. After all, this is may be something that is out of your control and needs medical attention. If this is the case, y would need to contact your vet immediately. 

A great way to keep your elderly dog in optimal health up and prolong many complications is to use supplements. Luckily, that's where Petz Park’s specialties lie!

It isn’t uncommon for your dog to become very set in their ways – some may call it stubbornness! When it comes to older dog care though, this may present itself in an increased sensitivity to the weather and their sight or hearing abilities may decrease.

This means that they may rely on you more than usual as a sense of security, maybe even resulting in a form of separation anxiety.

For those wondering how to take care of a senior dog, it’s worth noting that their ability to deal with change also decreases and they learn to feel secure with their daily routines – this is why it is important to keep doing what you normally would with them.

If you need to make changes to any major part of their day or normal daily routine, slowly introduce this change so to not confuse your dog. The chances are, they may not even notice the change this way.

How to care for old dogs - What exactly can you do to help?

Much like humans, older dogs lose mobility, hearing and sight as they age. They can also become more prone to diseases like hip and joint issues which require additional support. One of the most common ways to care for your older dog is to keep your dog healthy with hip and joint supplements or other supporting supplements for aging dogs and senior dogs, as well as dog probiotics. This can help your dog retire easily into their golden years as a healthy and happy canine.

To stay on top of your dog’s health before they retire, it is important to consider how to care for them. 

Senior Dog Diet

To maintain your dog’s health, it’s important to provide a healthy, balanced diet. Senior dogs suffer from reduced energy levels, hearing or digestive issues, and are more susceptible to diseases like dementia. In order to take care of your older dog, switch up their diet that supports their specific health needs – such as including easy to digest foods and brain foods.

You can supplement their diet with high-quality multivitamins and active ingredients that target specific health concerns – such as reduced mobility from arthritis or swollen joints or cognitive support supplement for aging dogs. Owners have found that the right diet and supplements can reduce pain and inflammation and significantly improve mobility and energy levels in senior dogs – getting your dog moving happily again. 

Another senior dog dietary supplement can support cognitive function and help relieve symptoms of brain diseases, such as memory loss and disorientation that can often be a sign of dementia. Add these supplements to your senior dog’s diet to help complement the nutritional needs of your doggo.

Regular Exercise

As your dog ages, their metabolism slows down which means they can be more likely to develop obesity and have lower energy levels to keep up with their usual run in the park.

 Build up your dog’s stamina and overall health with a hip and joint supplement or multivitamin to help maintain an ideal weight that won’t become a burden on their joints or overall nutritional needs.

This way, if you notice your dog is slowing down, you can adapt their exercise routine to accommodate a walk instead of a run while reducing the effects or symptoms of diseases like arthritis.

Senior Dog Check ups

Did you know that it’s recommended you take your senior dog for vet checkups at least twice a year? Your vet can perform important tests and evaluations for senior dogs that help catch early-onset diseases or conditions before it’s too late, making preventative health care easier.

To make sure you stay up to date with your senior dog’s vet check ups, you can keep their immune system healthy with a dog multivitamin and control their daily food intake to avoid an overweight senior dog, and avoid further medical issues.

Be Patient with Your Senior Dog

It’s common for your senior dog to become increasingly stubborn as they age. It’s difficult for them to adapt to change and they find security in their daily routines. That’s why it’s important to continue to give them the love and support they need to keep their mind, body and soul active.

If you make any major changes to their daily routine, like adapting their diet or exercise regime, remember that resistance or stubbornness comes with age. Be kind and patient and slowly introduce changes to avoid confusion, stress and potentially destructive behaviours.

Skin and Coat Upkeep

Have you noticed a change in your senior dog’s coat? What was once a shiny coat may have become dull and dry, and prone to itching or flaking. This can be a sign of skin diseases such as hot spots or excessive shedding and dandruff.

If you notice that your dog’s coat isn’t as soft as it used to be, it may be time to introduce a dog coat supplement. A quality skin and coat supplement supports healthy skin replenishment and balanced oil production, to help reduce inflammation and irritation and renew that health coat shine. 

Brushing your dog regularly and using natural shampoos alongside skin and coat supplements that contain omega 3 can help treat any irritation and support a luscious mane. Bonus! Omega 3 also supports a healthy diet and mind for your pooch!

Some additional tips

The most important thing for you to do in order to help your senior dog is to love them the same as you always have. Don’t make a fuss and give them more attention than they are used to – this could make them more dependent on you than they need to be. Don’t show them any less attention as you may confuse them and they may develop a form of depression or separation anxiety.

Less exercise for your dog means they are probably going to get bored quicker too! Provide them with some entertainment. There are many toys that dogs love to play with (that aren’t the neighbour’s slippers believe it or not). Try a few out that aid weight loss or movement if needed, this ensures your dog is still getting in some much needed and loved play time!

1 - Keep your pup hydrated regardless of the weather

If they are reluctant to consume their usual water intake, this may be an indicator that something else is wrong so be sure to check it out. 

Be aware of how your dog acts in weather changes. Over sensitivity to the weather means wrap them up when it is cold and don’t let them overheat when it is hot.  

2 - Keep up your trips to the grooming salon

Who doesn’t like to be pampered? Regular trips to the salon will keep your dog’s skin and fur protected. Your groomers can also check for any irregularities on your dog’s body – it’s always good to double check! Dog coat supplements such as Omega 3 are also great to help keep your dog's skin and coat in check.

3 - Visit your vet regularly

It is recommended that you take your senior dog to be checked out at least twice a year, (every 6 months). They can perform body condition evaluations and be sure to catch any problems out as early as possible.  

4 - Don’t neglect any signs of discomfort

Dogs aren’t able to articulate their thoughts, so it’s our job as their caregivers to notice any signs of distress. Sometimes limping, jumping or having difficulties climbing the stairs might seem harmless or such behaviour could indicate dog arthritis. We suggest taking your dog to the vet if you notice these signs.

5 - Invest money in a heated or an orthopedic bed

A heated or orthopedic bed could serve as a great arthritis treatment for dogs. Restful, pain-free sleep is crucial for older dogs and could help reduce pain and improve their quality of life. Heated dog beds may help senior canines with joint problems and stiffness. 

They come with a built-in heater that matches your pet’s natural body temperature. You could get a heated mat or a pad and place them into your dog’s bed for a similar effect.

6 - Consider using a support sling

If your ageing dog has mobility issues, it’ll most likely need a dog support sling or a specifically designed dog harness. For canines that really struggle to get up, sometimes using a dog sling can help them get back on their feet.

Some models include a handle, so you can easily assist your pet. These types of products facilitate walking, going to the bathroom, climbing the stairs or getting into the car.

7 - Protect your dog from parasites

Regardless of how old your dog is, they aren’t immune to fleas, lice, ticks and worms. They require proper protection.

You could also vaccinate your pet and the good news is that senior dogs don’t need vaccines at the same intervals. But you should talk to your vet because this mostly depends on your dog’s individual needs.

8 - Keep your pet’s mind sharp

To keep your dog’s mind sharp, you need to play mind games with them. For example, you can play the “find game” where you hide treats around the house and issue a command “find”, while your dog runs around and uses its nose to find all the treats. 

These games offer great mental stimulation, especially when some senior dogs tend to suffer from cognitive dysfunction. You could also try puzzle toys to challenge your pet’s mind.

No one wants to think about losing their best friend but by knowing how you can help or even prevent some of these issues, you may just get to spend a little longer together.

If you need any more information or advice on senior dog health or senior dog health care, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

We’re easily contacted on Facebook (Petz Park). Here we can be of assistance almost instantly and do our best to help your furry friend.