Seeing your dog age is a blessing! Even though it can be sad to see them slow down a little. When your dog reaches seniorhood, the signs are determined by its size and genetics. Large breed dogs are considered seniors earlier. Some large breeds become seniors as young as 5 or 6 years old. In contrast, smaller breeds become seniors later in life, ages 8 to 10.

Just because your dog reaches a specific age does not mean their health will deteriorate immediately. It is frequently a gradual process that begins with minor physical and behavioural changes. By taking excellent care of your senior dog from the start, you can help them in living healthy and happy.

What Happens During Dog Ageing?

As a dog matures, they lose energy and may have cataracts or hearing difficulties. Besides, their organs may eventually not function correctly. Senior dogs are more likely to develop kidney or liver illness, diabetes, or obesity.

Not all dogs are deemed seniors at the same age. It is primarily determined by the breed and the dog’s specific characteristics. Small breeds are considered old when they reach the age of 10 or 11. Medium-sized breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, reach senior status at the age of 8-10. At the same time, huge dogs reach senior status at the age of 5 or 6.

How To Take Care Of A Senior Dog

Senior dogs demand extra care than adult dogs and puppies. To provide the greatest senior dog care possible, you must do things a little differently to keep them healthy.

Check below the excellent tips that can help you to take care of your senior dog:

Age-Appropriate Diet

A well-balanced diet is essential for keeping your dog healthy as they age. It is because they no longer have the same energy levels as younger dogs. Older dogs are more likely to acquire obesity. It is crucial to locate the best dog food for older dogs. By doing this, your old dog will not gain weight.

The special food for senior dogs is low in fat and calories. It will supplement your dog’s nutritional needs. Besides, because older dogs may have distinct health issues, you should contact a vet if your dog requires a special type of senior dog food.

Proper Exercise

Regular exercise can maintain the proper weight of your dog. At the same time, the dog’s general health will improve. You can consult a professional veterinarian about this. The vet can recommend an exercise regimen according to your dog’s health and limits. Start safely, and with time increase the stamina of your loved pet dog. You can take your dog on regular walks or light jogs if your dog can run.

As your dogs get old, they tend to lose their energy. So, if your young dog used to run for half an hour before, they may not be able to do it now. If you are stuck in a situation to leave your dog alone, you may still exercise them. Nowadays, interactive laser toys help in this with distance.

Vet Checkups

Regular vet care is one of the most crucial in ageing pet care. As your dog grows older, their immune system weakens. It results in more susceptibility to a variety of diseases. Most veterinarians recommend taking a senior dog for a six-month exam. It will allow your veterinarian to determine if anything is missing for good pet care. Besides, provide the best possible therapy for your dog.

Your dogs may feel anxious every time you take them to the vet. Nowadays, online vet services make it easy for you. It will reduce the unnecessary stress of taking your old pet to the vet.

Oral Health

Many senior dogs do not get proper dental care when they are adults. It is common to observe senior dogs with a few missing teeth. Thus, dental care is vital in grooming and should begin at a young age.

Wash your dog’s teeth every day to maintain them healthily. If your dog doesn’t like it, try to offer them dental treats. It would be great if you also take your dog to the veterinarian once a year to get their teeth professionally cleaned.

Parasite Protection & Vaccination

Your dog’s age doesn’t matter with the issue of fleas, lice, ticks, and worm protection. Therefore, you should continue to check for suitable treatments.

However, senior dogs do not require immunizations at the same intervals as younger dogs. Typically, once every three years is fine. But it would help if you visited your veterinarian. It is because they know what is best for your dog’s needs.

Grooming

As your dog ages, so do its fur and skin. So, what was once a beautiful and lustrous coat can turn drab and fragile. Seniors may also experience flaky, dry, and itchy skin. It can worsen the situation if they do not get the proper care.

It means you’ll have to brush your dog regularly. Besides, give dogs haircuts on time to avoid knots. It is also recommended to use gentle shampoos to nurture and cure sensitive skin and coats.

Updated Accommodations

Arthritis and other bone and joint issues that impair mobility are common in older dogs. A blind dog will also have difficulty jumping on the bed or sofa at night.

In such circumstances, soft bedding can help. An easily accessible orthopaedic bed that does not involve jumping or climbing can benefit your dog. Climbing stairs can become a tough task for your dog. Therefore the dog would avoid doing so.

Playing Healthy BrainGames

Mental exercise is as important as physical exercise for your dog’s health. Please keep your pet’s minds alert by engaging them in exciting activities. For example, puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, and treat “scavenger hunts” throughout the house. These mental workouts are essential for maintaining your dog in peak cognitive condition. They’re also a lot of fun for both of you.

Keep Dog’s Blood Work Checked

As dogs get old, taking them to the vet for regular checks is a good idea. In addition to an annual or biannual exam, pet parents should have their senior dogs’ blood testing done once a year.

You should perform blood tests on your senior dog to examine its white and red blood cells. Similarly, as their kidney and liver function, to ensure that they are healthy. It is a simple method for detecting any sickness.

Conclusion

Every dog ages differently. Undoubtedly, ageing is a natural and beautiful process. Pet parents should be prepared for it when their cute little pups get older.

When the dog becomes senior, they have less energy than its younger version. They need help in doing various things like walking. They can even develop cataracts and also lose their hearing power. It sounds scary, but it is a fact that these things happen with time. So, if you want to avoid any major health issues with your dog, start with the appropriate care.

Please understand that senior dogs have special needs to stay healthy. So, make sure to keep your dog comfortable with complete attention. This way, your loving dog can have a healthy and happy life.