As our pups grow older, they often need more hands-on care. It can be a difficult experience to see their energy dim a bit and their bodies become weaker. But as their owners, it is up to us to stay strong and do everything we can to make them more comfortable as they age. Here are our tips to make sure they live out their senior years as best as they can! 

Make Your Home More Accessible

Small changes around the house can make a big difference in your senior dog’s daily comfort. 

• Add low steps or ramps to help them get on and off furniture and in and out of the car
• Place rugs or carpet runners on slippery hard floors to prevent falls and improve traction
• Keep food, water, and their sleeping area on the ground floor to minimize stair use
• Swap their bed for a memory foam option to support aching joints

Adjust Their Diet

Just like us, what a dog eats has a direct effect on their holistic health. Senior dog food is made specifically with fewer calories per serving to help prevent weight gain as their metabolism slows. Make sure to search for food with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and moderate protein to support joint function. But remember, it always depends on the dog breed! Some dogs may need more calories or protein than others. 

Keep Their Joints Supported

Joint issues are one of the biggest health issues that come with age for our pups. Besides proper bedding, non-slip flooring, and gentle activities like short walks, low-impact play, and stretching, all help maintain flexibility. Maintaining a healthy weight is also one of the best things you can do for an arthritic dog, since every extra pound adds pressure to their joints.

Stay on Top of Dental Care

Dental health is often overlooked in canines, but it becomes a very important aspect of their wellness. Keep up with regular toothbrushing and have their teeth checked every six months. Heart disease and other age-related illnesses can make some dogs poor candidates for anesthesia, so don’t put off having problematic teeth addressed while your dog is still healthy enough to undergo the procedure. You may also want to switch to softer toys, as a dog’s teeth tend to weaken over time.

Be Aware of Changes in Vision and Hearing

We know too well how our sight and hearing can deteriorate over time; it’s not different for dogs! These changes will make dogs startle more easily, so it is important to change how you approach your pup. Patience is key, and young children in the household should be supervised and taught how to approach an older dog gently. A dog with vision loss may rely more on sound and smell, while a deaf dog may become more attuned to body language and facial expressions. For their safety, it’s especially important to keep dogs with sensory impairments on a leash during walks.

Caring for your senior dog takes more patience and attention than it did in their younger years. We want the best for our pups, and by staying proactive with their health, we are doing the best we can. Use these tips to help ensure that your furry friend’s golden years are filled with comfort and joy.