Tips on how to keep your senior dog healthy

Dogs are, in our opinion, magicians! They know how to make a person happy in less than 5 seconds. Yet, our buddies also have their own needs, especially when they get older. To make their life easier, you must do a couple of things to make them healthy. 

When does a dog become a senior?

There is no precise answer to that question because it depends on the breed. Smaller breeds, such as Brussels Griffon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Chihuahua, tend to live longer, and they are considered seniors at around 11 years of age. Large and medium-sized dogs like German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers and others are considered “old” after they turn 7. 

The point is not to calculate whether your best friend is considered old or not; the point is to start treating them in the best possible way as soon as possible. In the next part of the text, we highlighted some valuable tips that would make your dog healthy and happy in the long run. So, let’s go! 

Senior dogs should consume supplements

Thanks to some scientists and puppy lovers, people can now find different types of senior dog supplements. The purpose of these supplements is not to replace a healthy diet for your pet. Their purpose is to support it! If you choose the right one, be sure they will be full of healthy natural ingredients, including omega-3s, potent antioxidants and glucosamine. 

All these ingredients can support aging joints, boost vitality and overall wellness and nourish skin and coat. We recommend adding them to your pets’ regular meals. 

Regular check-ups

This is a tip for older people, not just dogs – regular check-ups are mandatory. We are not there to scare you, just to alert you – even when things look good, they don’t have to be. Regular check-ups mean that you should visit the veterinarian at least once in 3-4 months, even when there aren’t any visible symptoms of any condition. 

Some of the tests your dog will undergo are routine blood and urine tests, tests of vision or hearing functionality, tests on kidney function and so on. 

Physical activity is mandatory

The studies have confirmed that an average dog walk should last around 30 minutes, but only if your buddy is in perfect shape. We do know that this can sometimes be very hard to achieve, especially during a working day. However, your dog has to run to stay healthy. If you don’t have that much time, the so-called sit-to-stand exercise can be a good alternative. 

Keep the treats in your hand and ask your dog to sit and stand as many times as possible. Between 5 and 7 times a day is enough, or even less if your dog is too old. This way, you are actually strengthening your dog’s legs. 

Mental stimulation 

Instead of focusing only on the physical health of your senior dog, you also need to worry about its mental health. Playing with toys is something that makes them feel happy. We recommend getting tennis balls. 

Additionally, dogs enjoy investigating, so consider a game that involves searching for hidden treats. This way, they will use their nose and paws. Socialization is another aspect to consider. Your dog has to play with other dogs, ideally with those the same age and size! 

Grooming

Grooming is recommended at all ages, but especially as dogs age. The point of grooming is to ensure that their fur prevents the hair from getting matted. Those mats can lead to skin infections and, ultimately, to skin tumors if the disease is not treated on time. 

Conclusion 

The point of this article was to explain to people that dogs also have their needs. Allow your best friend to leave healthy, just as you would ensure you are. Give them supplements, adjust their diet, allow them to be physically active and hang out with other dogs.