How to Keep Your Senior Dog Active and Healthy

As dogs get older, they tend to slow down a bit, but that doesn’t mean they can’t live their golden years to the fullest! With a little extra care and attention, you can help your senior pup stay active, comfortable, and happy. From choosing the right diet to keeping your pup mentally and physically active, here’s how to keep your furry friend feeling their best.

When is a Dog Considered a Senior?

First of all, it’s important to know when your furry friend is officially considered a senior dog. The specific age at which your pup enters into their golden years depends on their size and breed. A general rule of thumb is that smaller breeds typically have longer lifespans than larger breeds. While larger dog breeds may reach their senior years at around 5 to 7 years old, smaller breeds often don’t until they’re 7-9 years old. However, there are definitely pups that are exceptions to this rule. Individual factors like a dog’s genetics and overall health also impact how old they are when they enter their senior years.

Schedule Regular Vet Visits

One of the most important aspects of senior dog care is keeping up with regular veterinary check-ups. Senior dogs are more prone to developing health issues than young canines, which is why taking your pup to a professional is crucial. Scheduling vet visits at least once every six months ensures that potential problems are caught early and managed properly. Your vet can also help you monitor your dog’s weight, adjust their diet, and recommend supplements or medications if needed.

Feed Your Senior Pup a Nutritious Diet

As dogs age, their metabolism slows down, so those extra treats can start to add up. Keeping your senior pup at a healthy weight is essential since a few extra pounds can lead to joint pain, heart problems, and a shorter lifespan. Thankfully, switching to a senior-specific dog food can help. These foods are designed with the proper balance of calories and nutrients so dog owners can keep their senior dogs feeling their best.

Maintain a Regular Exercise Routine

Even as they age, dogs need consistent physical activity to stay fit and maintain a healthy weight. While your senior pup may not have the same energy for long hikes or intense play sessions, regular exercise is still important. You might need to swap long hikes and jogs for leisurely walks and break them into shorter, more manageable strolls. Low-impact exercises like swimming can also be a great option, especially if your pup enjoys the water. Every dog’s needs are different, so if you’re unsure how much exercise is right, your vet can help you figure out the best routine.

Increase Fido’s Mental Stimulation

Keeping your senior dog’s mind active is just as important as keeping them physically active. One way to keep your pup mentally stimulated is to take different walking routes and let them stop and sniff more when they’re outside. Or, take them for a car ride and crack the windows. This will give your pup a front-row seat to new sights and smells.

Another way to increase your senior pup’s mental stimulation is to implement training sessions. Teaching new tricks or brushing up on old commands keeps their brains engaged and strengthens your bond. Even short training sessions or playdates with calm dogs can help keep their brains strong.

Puzzle toys are also great activities for senior pups since they challenge their problem-solving skills. Dog owners can create DIY sensory games by hiding treats around the house for them to sniff out or placing treats in their pup’s toys. A little variety in your senior dog’s feeding routine goes a long way in keeping them feeling sharp!

Make Your Home Safer for Your Pup

As your pup ages, a few simple home adjustments can make a world of difference in their comfort and safety. One thing experts recommend is raising their food and water bowls or purchasing an elevated dog feeder so they don’t have to strain their necks to eat or drink. Dog owners can also invest in a supportive, orthopedic bed to make naptime more comfortable. If your dog loves snuggling on the couch or your bed, or you take frequent road trips with Fido, dog ramps or pet stairs can help them get up without the strain of jumping.

Additionally, slippery floors can be tricky for older dogs. Adding non-slip rugs or mats will help them stay steady on their paws when they’re roaming around the house. Lastly, be wary of changing the temperature in your home too suddenly if you have a senior pup. Aging dogs are extra sensitive to temperature changes, so keeping your house at a consistent and comfortable temperature is best.

Keep an Eye on Their Health at Home

Between vet visits, A weekly “doggy check-up” at home can help you catch any weird lumps, bumps, or changes early on. Just give your pup a gentle once-over and keep an eye on anything new. If you spot something suspicious, take a picture so you can track any changes and share it with your vet if needed. Additionally, keep an eye on your senior dog’s behavior. If your pup seems extra tired, uninterested in their food, or starts bumping into things and startling easily, it might be time for a vet visit.

Caring for a senior dog means adjusting to their changing needs, but it also brings many sweet and rewarding moments. Most importantly, give your furry friend extra love during their golden years and enjoy each moment with them. After all, there’s nothing they love more than simply being by your side!