5 Tips to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy and Happy

Getting older is inevitable, for both us and our pets. The average lifespan of a dog is between 7 and 10 years. As they get older, dogs' needs change. Although your dog may not be as active as it used to be we need to make sure that they are able to still live a full life.

Here are some ways to keep your dog happy and healthy as they age:

1. Support Your Dog's Changing Needs with Proper Nutrition

In addition to maintaining the same nutritious diet, they’re used to, Talk to your vet about your dogs changing nutrition needs as well as introduce certain supplements, such as dog fish oil (good for bones, joints, skin, and coat), liquid glucosamine dog (good for joints), and/or probiotics (good for digestive health). Taken on a regular basis, supplements like these may make a big difference in your dog’s health, and oftentimes they can just be added to their regular meals.

Arthritis and stiffness are common ailments among senior dogs. You might consider introducing supplements. Here are some supplements that might support and help your aging dog: 

• Glucosamine with chondroitin - Supports healthy hips, joints, and cartilage as dog's age. 
• Mobility supplement - Encourages growth and repair of tendons, cartilage, and tissue. Also supports collagen formation.
• Fish oil - Rich in essential Omega fatty acids. In addition to improving your pet's overall nutrition, it also helps maintain healthy skin and coat.

2. Maintain a Healthy Mental and Physical Exercise Routine

Despite slowing down, your four-legged friend needs regular exercise. Smooth movements, such as walking,  are good for the joints, heart, and digestive system. Take your dog for a short walk, visit the park, or go swimming. 

Maintaining good mental health is important as well. Keep your pet's mind sharp by providing plenty of mental stimulation from interactive games, toys, and puzzles.

3. Take Good Care of Your Dog’s Oral Health

As dog's age, they're more prone to gum disease and cracked teeth, which are painful, serious conditions requiring veterinary care. Oral disease is preventable! Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly is vital. Regular professional cleaning can also help keep your dog's teeth healthy by removing tartar plaque.

4. Give Your Senior Dog Some TLC

Your dog deserves more than just food. Give him regular grooming sessions or therapeutic sessions as well. You should groom your dog regularly, especially if you have a long-haired pet. Regularly brush your dog's hair, clean their potty area, and trim their nails. 

Also during the grooming sessions, Check her for lumps and bumps. New growths will likely be more successfully treated if they are detected early.

5. Watch Out For Any Signs of Discomfort 

As fur parents, it is our duty to watch for signs that our pets are in distress. Dogs cannot talk but they may show signs that they are in pain. Some things to look for include limping, difficulties changing position, difficulties climbing stairs or jumping, and lying down when eating or drinking—all of which suggest that your pup is in need of a visit to the vet.

As our pets age, there will be noticeable shifts in their health. Recognizing these early signs will help our dogs transition into old age. They go through many of the same transitions that we do. The following guidelines will assist you in keeping your senior dog pain-free and engaged in their favorite activities for as long as possible.