How to Care for Your Older Dog

Senior dogs have specific needs, and your pooch requires a little more TLC as it ages. Regular vet visits, a nutritious diet, and mental and physical exercise are key aspects of maintaining your senior dog's health. Do your best to keep your pal comfy and cozy, especially if it experiences mobility issues, hearing or vision loss, or sensitivity to heat and cold. By providing companionship, along with routine veterinary care, you can help ensure your pet lives a happy, healthy life well into its golden years.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Maintaining Your Older Dog’s Health

  1. Routine vet visits are vital to senior pet care, so schedule check-ups for your pooch every 6 months. Regular exams can help you and the vet catch any issues as early as possible.
    • Try to develop a strong relationship with your dog’s vet. From diet to exercise, your pet may have lots of special needs, so ask the vet for advice. [1]
    • Additionally, if you have a good working relationship with the vet, it’s more likely that you can call the office if you have a minor concern instead of having to pay for an appointment.
  2. Go with a commercial dog food labeled for senior dogs. Check the label and consult the vet about the best daily amount to feed your dog. Obesity is a major health concern in senior dogs, so monitor your pet’s diet and work with the vet to help your pet maintain a healthy weight. [2]
    • Alternatively, feed your dog chicken or beef with a half the amount of kibble on top. [3]
    • Feed your dog smaller meals several times a day. Feeding it specific amounts of food instead of free feeding will help you control its weight, and smaller meals are easier on its digestive system.
    • Even if your pal gives you its most convincing sad eyes, resist the urge to give it table scraps. [4]

    Tip: If you just can’t say no when your dog begs, offer dog-safe fresh or steamed fruits and veggies. Healthy options include apples, watermelon, pumpkin, bananas, and carrots. Be sure to remove seeds and rinds, and steer clear of toxic produce, such as grapes, avocado, onions, and mushrooms.

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  3. Maintain a regular exercise routine, but obey your best bud’s limits. For instance, instead of 1 to 2 long walks, go on multiple 5 to 10-minute walks per day. [5]
    • Before you go on a walk, do a stretch routine with your dog. [6] Let them jump up on you, then gently pull upward on their paws. After a few moments, put them back down on all fours and pull on their back legs one at a time. As you do this, watch your dog's facial expression and body language so you don't stretch too far or cause them any pain. [7]
    • Exercise is important to control weight and promote healthy muscles, bones, and joints. However, arthritis, heart disease, and lung issues are common in senior dogs, so ask the vet for tips about giving your dog the right amount of exercise.
    • Do a consistent amount of exercise throughout the week. If your older dog is used to taking short walks during the week, it may not be able to handle taking longer walks on the weekends.
  4. To provide mental stimulation, play games like fetch and hide and seek, and practice tricks, if your dog knows any. In addition, interactive puzzle toys can keep your pet engaged when you’re unable to play with it.
    • If your dog is healthy enough, try taking it to new places. For example, go for a walk down a street where you’ve never ventured. While you shouldn’t overwhelm your dog with loud, crowded, or stressful surroundings, new sights and smells can offer mental stimulation.
  5. Brush your dog’s teeth daily. Dental hygiene is a crucial part of senior dog care, so brush your dog’s teeth regularly. Try to make the experience as positive as possible, offer lots of encouragement, and use a tasty, flavored canine toothpaste. Keep in mind that, in addition to regular brushing, your vet will recommend periodic professional teeth cleanings. [8]
    • Use a toothbrush and toothpaste specifically labeled for dogs. Never use toothpaste made for humans to brush your dog's teeth.
    • If your dog doesn’t tolerate having its teeth brushed, try using a cloth. It’s also helpful to play games or go for a walk before tending to its teeth. That way, it’ll be tuckered out and less likely to put up a fuss.
  6. If your dog doesn't take any, talk to the vet about oral flea, tick, and heartworm medications. These parasites pose major health risks to senior pets, so preventative care is especially important for your older pooch. Additionally, make sure your pet gets all vaccinations recommended by the vet and required by your local jurisdiction. [9]
    • Like humans, older animals have weaker immune systems. Since your senior dog is less able to fight off germs and parasites, keeping up with vaccinations and parasite preventatives is a must.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Keeping Your Pet Comfortable

  1. Older dogs often have mobility issues, so make accommodations to ensure your home is accessible. If your dog has trouble bending over, invest in a caddy to elevate its food and water bowls. Slippery floors can be tough to manage, so try laying down rugs in rooms your senior dog frequents. [10]
    • If your home has stairs, ensure your dog can access toys, a comfortable bed, and food and water on 1 floor. If your dog has mobility issues, keep its necessities within close proximity so it doesn’t have to go far if it needs something.
  2. Like senior humans, older dogs have trouble regulating their body temperature and are more sensitive to extreme cold and heat. Don’t leave your senior dog outside in cold or hot weather, and notice if it starts to pant excessively or shiver. [11]
    • If your dog has a short coat, get it a blanket or sweater to help keep it warm. Holding a cool (or lukewarm, but not cold), damp cloth to its neck, belly, and ears can help cool it off if it's panting hard.
    • In hot weather, dogs cool off by drinking water, so make sure your pal always has access to clean, fresh water. Additionally, staying hydrated is important for its overall health.
  3. Holding it is harder for older dogs. That, along with eating multiple smaller meals, will mean your furry friend will need to go potty more frequently. If possible, incorporate at least 1 to 2 additional bathroom breaks into your schedule to prevent accidents. [12]
    • For example, if you typically take your dog out every 6 hours, try to take it out every 4 hours. If your dog has trouble holding it overnight, set an alarm and take it out for a quick late night potty break.
    • Dealing with accidents is more than just inconvenient—it’s hard to see your pet struggle with incontinence issues. Try to be patient, and remember that your dog isn’t choosing to be “bad.” If incontinence issues have developed suddenly, schedule an appointment with the vet to rule out an underlying condition.
  4. Talk to your family members and make sure everyone knows not to stress out your senior dog. Your dog may have trouble hearing or seeing, and sudden loud noises or lots of commotion could startle it. [13]
    • Imagine if you snuck up on your grandmother and started shouting. She probably wouldn’t like that very much! Similarly, ask your family, friends, and any visitors to give your senior pooch peace and quiet, especially when it’s resting.

    Tip: To avoid startling your dog, make slower movements around it, and do your best to approach it within its field of vision instead of sneaking up behind it. All dogs rely on their sense of smell, so try extending your hand near your dog’s nose to announce your presence.

  5. Set aside lots of time to cuddle on the sofa, gently brush your dog’s coat, practice doing tricks, and play games together. Your pal might not be a puppy anymore, but it still needs your companionship. Dogs have emotions, and aging is even more of an adjustment for them than it is for their owners. [14]
    • Focus on enjoying the present and make the most of your time together. Even if your senior dog has a little trouble getting around or doesn’t see as well as it used to, chances are it has plenty of pep left. With advances in veterinary care, dogs live longer, healthier lives than ever. [15]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Identifying Common Issues

  1. A few times a week, check your dog’s eyes, nose, and ears for discoloration, discharge, and any other signs of illness. Check its head, neck, stomach, and limbs for any unusual lumps or growths, and feel its belly and ribs to monitor its weight. Listen to its breathing, and notice any wheezing, coughing, or labored breathing. [16]
    • Bring your dog to the vet if you notice any unusual symptoms. If your dog has any known health issues, ask the vet how you should monitor its condition.
  2. Take note if your dog seems to be excessively thirsty or stops eating or drinking. Keep track of how frequently it urinates and has bowel movements, and notice any changes in the color or consistency of its stools.
    • Eating, drinking, and potty habits can offer key insight into a pet’s health. For instance, frequent urination and excessive thirst may be early indicators of diabetes, kidney disease, or liver issues.
  3. As in humans, senior pets can develop senility, so look for any unusual changes in behavior. Signs can range from increased barking and aggression to incontinence, wandering, and disorientation. You know your dog better than anyone, so give the vet a call if you notice any causes for concern. [17]
    • If necessary, discuss strategies for managing your senior dog’s behavioral changes with the vet. Playing with your pet, sticking to a predictable routine, moderate physical exercise, and providing mentally stimulating toys can help keep it mentally active. [18]
  4. The sooner you catch signs of these problems, the sooner you can start making adaptations around your home to help your dog cope. Take your dog to the vet for an evaluation if you notice that your dog:
    • Bumps into things, has trouble finding treats or toys, or avoids eye contact. A dog with vision problems may also become anxious or clingy. [19]
    • Has trouble responding to its name or verbal commands. Your dog may also become unresponsive to noises that used to get its attention, like the sound of a favorite toy or your keys jingling. [20]
  5. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of caution and consult the vet if you think something’s wrong. The sooner you catch a health problem, the better the chances of successfully managing it. [21]

    End of life care: Despite advances in veterinary care, sometimes treating health issues in older pets isn’t possible. If your senior dog is ill and its quality of life is poor, saying goodbye is the right decision, as heartbreaking as it is. If the situation arises, have an honest conversation with the vet about what’s best for your pet.

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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    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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  • Question
    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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      Tips

      • The age at which dogs are considered “senior” varies. In veterinary terms, larger breeds are considered to be “geriatric,” or older, around age 6 or 7. Smaller breeds are considered older around age 9 or 10.
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      • Morning stiffness is common in senior dogs, so give your pal a bit of time to loosen up and stretch before getting active early in the day.
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      • Handle your dog carefully, especially if it’s a small breed. Bear in mind children may get too rough with a senior small dog.
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      References

      1. ↑ Indigo Will. Professional Canine Expert. Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
      2. ↑ http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-diet-nutrition/feeding-senior-dogs
      3. ↑ Indigo Will. Professional Canine Expert. Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
      4. ↑ https://www.npr.org/2010/11/23/131516152/helping-your-good-old-dog-navigate-aging
      5. ↑ https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/senior-care/senior-care-guidelines
      6. ↑ Indigo Will. Professional Canine Expert. Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
      7. ↑ Indigo Will. Professional Canine Expert. Expert Interview. 8 September 2020.
      8. ↑ http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/caring-for-senior-dogs-what-you-need-to-know
      9. ↑ https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/senior-care/senior-care-guidelines
      1. ↑ https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs
      2. ↑ https://www.npr.org/2010/11/23/131516152/helping-your-good-old-dog-navigate-aging
      3. ↑ http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/caring-for-senior-dogs-what-you-need-to-know
      4. ↑ https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs
      5. ↑ http://www.pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-checkups-preventive-care/caring-a-senior-dog-7-healthy-habits
      6. ↑ https://www.npr.org/2010/11/23/131516152/helping-your-good-old-dog-navigate-aging
      7. ↑ http://www.vetstreet.com/dogs/caring-for-senior-dogs-what-you-need-to-know
      8. ↑ https://www.aaha.org/globalassets/02-guidelines/senior-care/senior-care-guidelines
      9. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/manage-cognitive-decline-in-senior-dogs/
      10. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/vision-loss-senior-dogs/
      11. ↑ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/hearing-loss-senior-dogs-symptoms-management/
      12. ↑ https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs

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      To care for your older dog, feed it a well-balanced, low-fat commercial dog food labeled for senior dogs. Maintain a moderate exercise routine, like 10-minute walks once or twice per day, to keep the dog physically fit and play games like fetch and hide and seek for mental stimulation. It's also important to brush the dog's teeth once daily and maintain vaccination and parasite prevention routines by visiting your vet twice a year. To learn about health issues to watch out for, read on!

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