As your dog continues to age, you might notice they need extra help going upstairs. They may require a different diet or not play as rough as they used to. All of this is a normal fact of life. While it is hard to admit your pet is reaching their senior years, it is important to make sure you are giving them the highest quality of life during these times. In this blog, we will give you easy methods that will improve your senior dog’s comfort at home.
What is a Senior Dog?
While your dog may be technically a senior dog, that does not mean they are any less capable than before! While we consider dogs starting at around six to nine years old as “seniors,” they might not start showing their age until later. This all depends on a ton of factors such as breed, activity level, diet, and mental stimulation. Larger breeds age faster than smaller breeds. And those who exercise more along with mental enrichment, like humans, age slower as they get older. Because each dog requires unique needs, this reference can guide your accommodations for your pet.
Keeping up with Physical and Mental Strength
If your pup comfortably keeps up with it, continuing walks, running in the park, or playing with toys can maintain musculature and bone strength. The same goes for mental enrichment with puzzles or sniffing games. Even letting them sniff the ground while going on a slow walk can enrich their mental cognition.
Allow for Accommodations
As their strength might weaken, you might need to adjust your home accordingly so your dog can go where they need to go. Setting up ramps or stairs to help them climb up the couch or steps are helpful. Using diapers or pee pads might be necessary as they become more difficult to bring outside to go to the bathroom. Another accommodation might be an orthopedic bed for when they sleep. Dietary changes might also be needed depending on their health situation.
Make Observations
Always observe your pet for any major changes in how they walk, eat, or function as they age. Various age-related chronic illnesses or issues often come up in dogs during the later years which are good to keep an eye on. Although being informed about common issues is important, that does not mean that your dog will suddenly get all these issues later in their life! A lot of senior dogs are plenty active, especially if they have been throughout their whole lives. Your care and attention also make a significant impact on their health no matter how young or old. And hopefully these tips will help you improve your senior dog’s quality of life for many more years to come.