Tips For Caring For Your Aging Dog

As our four-legged family members, also known as dogs, begin to reach their twilight years, things can definitely start to change. They may be that same puppy you once brought home, but just a little slower and with a little less energy and maybe a few gray hairs here and there. As dogs age, their daily needs become different and it helps to be prepared to give them what is best for them so that they can not only live as long as possible, but enjoy the time they have left. Here are some tips for caring for your aging dog.

Schedule More Frequent Veterinary Check-Ups 

As dogs age, their risk for certain ailments or conditions tends to increase. It is crucial to be able to be aware of and to catch health issues as early as possible. Frequent health checkups ensures that your dog can have the best chance to get diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. We recommend a visit every 3 to 6 months. 

Help Them Maintain A Healthy Weight

Senior dogs aren’t typically as active as younger dogs. Their metabolisms are also slowing down. Because of this, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy weight with age. You must be vigilant in helping set your dog up for success when it comes to having a healthy diet and regular exercise. Moving your dog to a senior formulated dog food, reducing their food serving size, and taking them for frequent walks can help them stay fit and trim for years to come.

Build A Comfortable Senior Friendly Living Environment

You don’t have to necessarily go out and renovate your entire house just to help your aging dog get around more easily, but that could be a fun project! You just have to make sure that they have a soft, supportive bed in a quiet, “safe” space where they can feel relaxed. Help them by placing their food and water dishes close to their bed area. If they sleep with you in your bed at night, you might want to consider building or purchasing a ramp that will help them get up and (more importantly) get down from your bed without risk of injury. 

Help Them With Grooming And Skin Care

As our furry friends age, they get less capable of thoroughly grooming and maintaining their overall hygiene. Help them stay fresh, clean, and comfortable by giving them a hand with their grooming regimen. 

• Brush their fur regularly to help prevent matting and clumping
• Trim their nails frequently to help them walk more easily and with less pain
• Check their skin for lumps, rashes, or other skin issues. Older dogs are more susceptible to skin related condition 
• Consider switching to a more moisturizing, senior friendly shampoo 

A Brief “Paws” Before Leaving

We hope you enjoyed learning how to care for your senior dog. If you would like to know more about this or anything else in the realm of canine supplements and natural canine pain relief, we are happy to help. Just contact us and we can answer your questions or help you place your first order. We look forward to hearing from you.