Q&A for How to Care for Your Older Dog

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How do I help my aging dog?

Indigo Will
Professional Canine Expert
Indigo Will is a Canine Expert, Trainer, and Founder and Owner of K9-INDIGO® Holistic Dog Training LLC™, a dog training service in Los Angeles, California. Indigo specializes in understanding canine temperament and dispositions to allow canines to reach their full potential. He has studied various methods of training and philosophies to develop a unique, innovative, and result-driven method for canine behavior training.

Indigo Will

Professional Canine Expert

Expert Answer

I recommend adjusting their diet to something more wholesome, like beef or chicken and a little kibble. You can also keep your dog healthy by stretching them before going on a walk.

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Is there special bedding for dog that can't move that allows for a urine pan under it so dog does not get wet from urine?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Vets use 'Vetbed' for hospitalized patients. This is a synthetic fleece that wicks moisture away from the dog, so that they aren't lying in it.

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Question

How do I care for my older dog who has started doing naughty things?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

If the behavior is out of character, such as wetting in the house, the dog may have a medical problem. Dropping a urine sample into the vet may help you get some answers.

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My dog is blind and deaf, am I doing the right thing keeping him alive?

Community Answer

Yes. As long as your dog is eating, enjoying regular activities (even if it just sleeping) and not in severe pain, he is fine. A dog will know your touch and love no matter if it can see you no matter what. We keep people alive even if they are old, blind, etc. Do keep up vet visits for their opinion.

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My dog is losing her teeth and is very slow and isn't eating much. Should I consider putting her down?

Community Answer

Take your dog to the vet and get a check up, and get her teeth checked. As dogs get older they tend to lose teeth. Feed your dog soft food. You can pour some water over dry food to soften it. And take your dog out for a walk, if possible, to stay active. If not, comfort your dog with your companionship and lots of love.

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Question

Should I bathe an old dog?

Community Answer

If your dog is not smelly or dirty, don't bother. If they are, try and be as gentle as you can getting them in and out of the bath, and use warm water for achy old bones.

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Question

My dog will only walk two blocks lately. How do I get him to walk longer?

Community Answer

Make the walk more interesting, try to explore something new instead of sticking to your old route. Be excited about your walk together, he will pick up on your energy. You can even use treats and toys to motivate him.

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I have two old dogs who seem very sick. What should I do?

Community Answer

Take them to the vet right away. They will know what to do.

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How do I get my old dog to be more active?

Community Answer

Take him on gradually longer walks until he is capable of walking longer than before.

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Question

My dog's back legs won't support him. We carry his back end to go out. What should I do?

Community Answer

Make a sling out of cloth and put it under him. Use it to help him support his weight.

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Question

How can I stop my dog from going to the bathroom in the house, especially at night?

Community Answer

Take your dog to the bathroom more often during the night. Set your alarm to wake you if necessary and withhold food for a few hours before bedtime. Also consult your veterinarian to ensure that there are no medical issues that cause your dog to go to the bathroom inside.

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Question

My older dog's skin has turned black especially under her chest, also, when she gets up from her nap and I sweep the floor it looks like there is pepper on the floor where she was laying. What is causing this?

Community Answer

It could just be dry skin or allergies, it could also be a really bad flea infestation, but you should go to the vet and get a professional opinion.

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Question

What kind of food should I give to a toothless Chihuahua?

Community Answer

I would recommend soft food. Food in cans or little containers is best. You can pour water over dry food and let it sit for a while; the food will get larger and soften up. This allows the dog to eat without pain.

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Question

What is the best way to feed an elderly dog that was previously neglected?

Community Answer

The best solution is to take the dog to a vet for a thorough check-up. The vet may find it necessary to put him/her on a prescription diet initially. Remember, senior dogs have very different dietary needs, and with prior neglect, this should definitely be kept in mind. If you cannot make it to a veterinarian, some of the best brands for senior dietary needs are Hills Prescription diet, Nutro, and Blue Buffalo. Dry kibble may not be best if there are dental issues. If canned food is too costly then soak the dry kibble in water to make it soft for easier chewing. I own a 17-year-old chihuahua and his dietary needs have changed since he's gotten older.

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Question

If an elderly pug weighs 27 pounds, does he need to lose weight?

Community Answer

Pugs usually weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. You might need to check with a vet about a diet plan for your pet.

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Question

I need a ramp so that our dog can get in and out of the doggie door. I have looked and looked but haven't been able to find anything. Any suggestions?

Community Answer

They sell them on Amazon. But be careful when you set it up, because your fingers can get stuck in some ramps when you fold them.

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Question

How do I care for my older dog if he is acting very sick?

Community Answer

If he is only ACTING lethargic and you've had a vet assess the situation, try to get him motivated with toys or treats. If he is acting lethargic and you haven't taken him to the vet, do so immediately.

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