Senior Dog Care: How to Support Your Ageing Pet
As dogs enter their senior years, they face new challenges that can impact their quality of life. Just like us, senior dogs face new challenges that can affect their comfort, mobility, and overall health. With the right knowledge and a bit of extra care, you can make sure your dog enjoys their later years in comfort and happiness.
Our comprehensive guide offers practical ways to support your ageing companion, backed by trusted advice and specialist products that make a difference.
Recognising the Signs of Ageing in Dogs
The first step to caring for a senior dog is spotting the subtle changes that come with age. You might notice your dog slowing down, sleeping more, or becoming less responsive to commands. Physical signs like stiffness, cloudy eyes, and weight fluctuations are also common as dogs move into their senior years.
Changes in behaviour, such as confusion, irritability, or even anxiety, can point to cognitive decline or discomfort. Spotting these signs early helps you take action before they impact your dog’s well-being.
Creating a Comfortable Home Environment
Your dog’s environment plays a big role in how comfortable they feel day to day. As joints become stiffer and mobility decreases, small changes around the home can have a huge impact.
Investing in an orthopaedic bed is a great start – it cushions sore joints and relieves pressure after walks or naps. Ramps or pet stairs allow your dog to access their favourite spots without needing to jump, while raised food and water bowls can reduce neck strain.
You might also find calming aids like Pet Remedy Calming Spray or YuMOVE Calming Care for Dogs helpful, especially if your pet seems more anxious or unsettled.
Nutrition Tailored for Senior Dogs
Nutrition is key to supporting your dog’s body and brain as they age. Senior dogs often benefit from diets rich in high-quality protein to maintain muscle, omega-3 fatty acids for joints and cognitive health, and antioxidants to support immunity.
Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and added fibre can also help with joint support and digestion. Digestive health also becomes more of a focus with age, so a bit of added fibre can go a long way. If you’re unsure where to start, many senior-specific dog foods offer balanced formulas designed for ageing bodies and minds.
Managing Joint Pain and Mobility Issues
Mobility issues are one of the most common concerns for senior dog owners, often caused by arthritis or general wear and tear. Signs like reluctance to go for walks, difficulty getting up, or hesitation on stairs may indicate discomfort.
Joint care can be managed through a mix of approaches. Supplements such as The PharmPet Co’s Joint Care range can help support, while simple lifestyle changes, like providing non-slip rugs or using a ramp, can prevent accidents and make daily movement easier.
Exercise is still important, but it should be gentle and tailored to your dog’s energy levels. Short walks or low-impact activities like swimming help maintain strength without putting undue stress on joints.
Engaging and Stimulating Your Senior Dog
Ageing doesn’t just affect the body; it can take a toll on your dog’s mind as well. Cognitive decline, often referred to as dog dementia, can lead to disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, or a general sense that your dog is not quite themselves.
Keeping your pet mentally engaged is key. Puzzle toys, scent games, and short training sessions can all help stimulate their brain. Even simple things like hiding treats around the house or introducing new, easy tricks can offer great mental enrichment. Cognitive supplements may also help slow cognitive decline and support overall brain health.
Routine Veterinary Care
Preventive care becomes more important than ever during the senior years. Regular vet check-ups help detect health issues early and manage them before they become serious.
These visits might include dental checks (as dental disease is common in older dogs), blood work to assess organ function, and monitoring for pain or inflammation. Your vet may recommend dietary adjustments, pain relief, or immune-support supplements based on your dog’s individual needs.
Always consult a vet before introducing any new supplements or treatments.
Common Health Concerns in Senior Dogs
Being aware of common age-related conditions means you can spot them early and take action. Here’s a quick overview of what to watch for:
Arthritis: A painful, progressive condition that limits mobility. Supplements, warm beds, and gentle exercise may help to support.
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (Dog Dementia): Symptoms include confusion, pacing, or nighttime restlessness. Mental stimulation and brain-boosting supplements may help to manage progression.
Kidney and Liver Issues: These can appear gradually with signs like excessive thirst or weight loss. Prescription diets, supplements and regular vet visits for close monitoring can support managing these conditions.
Dental Disease: Regular brushing, dental chews, and vet cleanings prevent tooth loss and infections.
Heart Disease: Coughing, fatigue, and breathing issues may signal heart trouble. A vet-led treatment plan is crucial here.
Obesity: Weight gain can sneak up due to reduced activity, but it increases the risk of other health problems, including joint issues. Choose senior dog food and stick to appropriate portion sizes.
Cancer: As with humans, cancer risk increases with age. Be alert to new lumps, unexplained weight loss, or behavioural changes.. Early detection and treatment are vital for better outcomes.
Regular vet check-ups and being vigilant are key to the early detection and management of these conditions, helping your senior pet enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life.
Final Thoughts
Caring for a senior dog is a privilege. With the right support, your furry friend can continue to enjoy life to the fullest, even as their needs change. By recognising the signs of ageing, making thoughtful adjustments to their environment and lifestyle, and working closely with your vet, you’ll be giving them the best care possible in their later years.
Explore our full range of senior pet products to help your dog stay healthy, happy, and comfortable every step of the way.