Advances in veterinary practices have meant that more dogs are living to their senior years than ever before. To many dog parents, this is great news. Many dog owners find that senior dogs are more their speed, as older dogs tend to be calmer and more willing to go for longer cuddle sessions. Plus, there’s no bittersweet joy like watching a dog grow up knowing how much one loves them and how many memories have been shared between man and their four-legged best friend.
Sadly, there are still too few people who are prepared to take full responsibility for the changing needs of more distinguished dogs. As with older humans, it’s important to remember that senior dogs generally experience some forms of physical and cognitive decline. While these changes aren’t necessarily a cause for alarm, they do mean that you’ll have to adjust your approach to caring for your aging pup as their age gradually adds up.
To that end, here are some things you’ll need to do once your dog gets on in years:
1) Reduce Their Caloric Intake
As dogs age, their slower metabolism means that they can pack on the pounds pretty quickly. This can put them at risk of obesity and further exacerbate any health problems they might have.
For that reason, you may want to reduce the amount of food they’re getting or switch to a formulation designed for senior dogs. Aside from being lower in calories, senior dog foods are often enriched with joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin, as well as omega-3 fatty acids to help cartilage and brain health. Serve them their favorite eats from high-quality dog stainless steel bowls from PrideBites.
2) Monitor Their Mobility and Joint Health
A good number of senior dogs experience joint issues such as arthritis, which can make getting around difficult and painful. Before they even reach their senior years, make sure they only use correctly-sized dog collars and accessories since anything that inhibits their movement can make joint issues worse. You can also offer fish oil supplements and regular gentle exercise, both of which will keep their joints supple and improve their quality of life.
3) Schedule Regular Vet Visits
Even in the best cases, aging dogs will experience an increased likelihood of health issues, including challenging problems like kidney and heart disease. Senior dogs are also going to be vulnerable to a range of cognitive and behavioral issues.
While you can’t prevent everything, frequent vet visits are still critical for catching and addressing potential problems early. Biannual checkups are generally the accepted minimum for identifying serious aging-related quality-of-life issues before they become unmanageable.
4) Provide Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements
As discussed above, older dogs often suffer from joint issues, and these can become worse if they sleep on uncomfortable surfaces. Providing them with an orthopedic bed can help alleviate pressure on their joints, allowing them to sleep more comfortably and helping them to avoid painful bed sores.
5) Adapt Their Exercise Routine
Regular exercise remains important for senior dogs, but the intensity and duration of activities may need to be readjusted. Gentle walks, shorter play sessions, and even alternative exercises like swimming can keep your older dog mentally young and physically active without causing unnecessary strain on their joints.
6) Keep Their Minds Sharp with Mental Stimulation
Contrary to the old saying, you absolutely can teach old dogs new tricks. Even better, they’re going to be mentally healthier for it. Mental stimulation is proven to prevent cognitive decline in older dogs, keeping them engaged and greatly improving their quality of life.
Every dog is different, so be sure to explore puzzle toys, scent work, and even simple training sessions to provide your dog the mental workout they need.
7) Ensure Proper Hydration
Senior dogs are especially prone to dehydration. These issues are partly due to kidney issues, but they can also happen because of neurological issues. Regardless, always provide easy access to fresh water. Consider using elevated bowls to make it easier for your senior dog to drink without straining their body.
8) Pay Attention to Dental Care
Dental disease is a common problem among older dogs, and it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Regular brushing and professional cleanings before your dog reaches their senior years are essential and non-negotiable to prevent debilitating infections, tooth loss, or gum disease. If you adopt a senior dog with preexisting mouth problems, you must be prepared to keep their oral health in good order.
9) Be Patient with Behavioral Changes
As dogs age, it’s common for them to experience some form of cognitive decline in a manner broadly similar to humans. This change, often referred to as canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), is often accompanied by confusion, increased anxiety, or altered sleep patterns, all of which can feed into each other.
These changes will be difficult on any dog owner, but creating a calm, quiet environment for them and sticking to a routine can help ease their stress. Offering appropriate levels of mental stimulation and consulting with your vet should also help you manage some of the more taxing symptoms of CCD.
10) Use Senior-Appropriate Walking Gear
Don’t forget that regular exercise and outside time is one of the key ways your dog can maintain a good quality of life in their senior years. Older dogs can have mobility limitations, so choosing the right harnesses and booties is especially important.
If your dog has especially severe mobility issues, a dog stroller or support sling may be needed to help them enjoy the mental stimulation and the bonding time offered by the outdoors.
Keep Your Pup Stylish in their Senior Years with PrideBites Accessories
Just because your dog is getting on in years, it doesn’t mean that they can’t show you the same love they did when they were younger and more rambunctious. What’s more, with personalized PrideBites accessories, you can keep your furry little elder comfy and stylish at all times.
PrideBites has a wide range of timeless personalized goodies for all your senior dog’s needs. Start a design project in single pieces for your special pet, or order wholesale quantities to promote your pet-friendly business.