Old dogs are truly some of the most special. They’ve lived through most of their lives, have chased all of the squirrels, and are often most content when spending time with their favorite human. If only they could all live as long as we do, both you and your senior dog could live the rest of your lives dedicated to caring for one another.
Unfortunately, our dogs only get a short time here with us on planet Earth. As they age, they, too, become more prone to health problems and simply getting around becomes more difficult. Like senior humans, caring for a senior dog requires special knowledge, patience, and a steadfast commitment to regular vet care.
But just because your dog is entering his golden years doesn’t mean that he needs to (or should) stop his favorite activities. On the contrary; there are ways to keep him healthy, engaged, and spry well into his elderhood. We’ll discuss a few of the best right here.
Diet & Nutrition
First and most importantly comes diet. The golden years require a specialized approach; as dogs begin to experience muscle wasting and activity level changes, they gain new nutritional needs. Feeding the same adult dog food probably won’t outright harm your dog, but it most likely isn’t providing everything he needs.
Instead, switch to a senior formula from a high-quality brand like Orijen Senior or Royal Canin Mature 8+. Both contain less of what your dog doesn’t need and more of the nutrients he’s likely to lack in old age, like calcium and lutein.
As for treats, they’re okay every so often. In fact, for older dogs who may not be able to enjoy all of the activities they once did, a healthy dog treat now and again can give them something to look forward to. Stay away from packaged treats and aim for dehydrated beats, homemade dog biscuits, or even just slices of boiled chicken instead.
If your dog is a chewer, it’s okay to allow him to keep his favorite bones. Just be sure to check his teeth every so often. If his gums appear inflamed or you see a crack, take away any hard products and see your vet for advice.
Strengthening Exercises
Older dogs are prone to mobility challenges, and that can make getting enough exercise challenging. But that doesn’t mean that you should just give up and let him lounge around all day. Instead, try to squeeze in small 5-to-10 minute sessions a few times a day. Go for a walk around the yard, go grab the mail, or even just play with a ball in the living room. Hide his favorite treats at various points around the room so he can search for them.
If you have a swimming pool, taking your dog in the water is an excellent way to encourage more exercise (just don’t let him swim alone). The water will take weight off his joints while still improving his cardiovascular health.
Fun & New Experiences
Older dogs need fun, new experiences to stay happy. When they get to experience new things, it’s like lubricating a rusty joint; their brains kick into higher gear. Like humans, using their brains regularly may be linked to the prevention of canine dementia and loss of cognitive function. Moreover, it ensures that they’re always having fun, even in old age.
So what can you do to keep your senior dog guessing? If he’s a people-lover, try trips to the beach, walks in the park, or social playdates with other senior dogs. If he’s nervous or anxious, find a quiet lake or field where he can bird watch and relax on a blanket.
Some local doggy daycares offer games and play times for seniors, too; these can be helpful for working individuals who want to avoid leaving the dog home and bored. Doggie puzzle toys (especially stuffed with treats) and at-home games are also a fun and easy way to engage your pup.
Massage Therapy
Canine massage has so much to offer your senior dog. Whether you do it yourself or seek the services of a professional, it can improve his circulation and relax stiff, sore muscles if you do it regularly. Most veterinary offices partner with third-party massage therapists who specialize in animal services, so don’t be afraid to ask if you’re curious.
On days where your dog is having a particularly difficult time, prevent stiffness with muscle and joint massages and gentle limb movements. Your vet can show you how to do this in a way that’s not painful for your pup, but for the most part, you should just gently rub your dog’s back, sides, legs, and feet (if he’s okay with it) in slow, low-pressure circular motions. Start with counter-clockwise and then reverse the process for a minute or two.
If he shows any signs of discomfort, make a note of it and stop immediately. Have your vet check the area for injuries.
Comfy Furniture
Canine arthritis is a bummer. It can make getting to sleep difficult, and may result in a dog that tosses and turns or whines all night long in their crate. This is especially true if your dog begins crying at night out of the blue when he never did it before. Any sudden behavioral changes should warrant veterinary intervention, but if you know your dog has arthritis or other age-related pain conditions, comfy furnishings may help.
Orthopedic dog beds make lying down at night luxurious, giving your dog’s hips, shoulders, and back the support he needs to be free of pain. These come in a variety of sizes ranging from a full-size mattress right down to a tiny cushion.
In general, you should buy a cushion large enough to support your dog with at least half a foot of clearance on either side. Doing so ensures he has plenty of room to flop around or roll over.
Some beds have warmers built into them from either space blanket material or actual electric warmers. These can be helpful for very old dogs who struggle to maintain body temperature, too, but be cautious of their use with dogs who may chew, rip, or tear the fabric. Never leave an electrically-heated cushion on at night without monitoring, as it can be a fire hazard.
If you’re not keen on heated beds, a SnuggleSafe can be a safer alternative. It heats (or cools!) in the microwave and slips inside of a fabric sack that in turn gets snuggled into your dog’s bed. Heat lasts for several hours and won’t cause a fire.
As for regular furniture, make it more accessible. Add small steps beside high beds and couches, and put a large dog bed or cushion under couches where your dog may jump off and injure himself. If possible, switch steps out for ramps. Your dog will thank you!
Your senior dog is truly a joy. Help him to stay joyful long into his golden years by modifying the environment he lives in, not his lifestyle. The longer he maintains his favorite activities, the longer he’s likely to remain with you. That’s something everyone can appreciate.