Caring for Senior Dogs
Updated On: Friday, November 15, 2024 12:20:33 PM America/Los_Angeles
As a pet paw-rent, caring for a senior dog presents a whole new set of concerns. Aging dogs face health issues ranging from chronic conditions like arthritis to day to day problems such as constipation. The good news is there are some simple solutions for making your fur baby just a little bit more comfortable as they get older. Watching our dogs age can be difficult, but these suggestions can help ease the transition into their senior years.
Photo by Michael Kilcoyne
Bedding
Switching up your dog’s bedding is a quick and easy way to provide relief for aching muscles. Even if your dog doesn’t have any joint problems, routine walks that used to be a breeze can cause more wear and tear on their joints and muscles. Replacing their bed with an orthopedic alternative can offer sweet relief after a walk or during arthritis flare ups.
Going Potty
Going to the bathroom can be a bit trickier as your dog gets older. Mobility will be more challenging, but they’ll likely have to go more frequently as their bladder muscles weaken. This means more frequent bathroom trips will also be needed. While ideally we would take our pups out whenever they want, sometimes it simply isn’t an option.
Providing your aging dog with an indoor dog potty will be essential so that they don’t hold it in, increasing the likelihood of contracting a UTI. Provide a fresh grass pee pad like DoggieLawn to encourage regular urination.
Food and Treats
Changing your dog’s diet as they get older is helpful for a variety of reasons. Two of them are their teeth and their bowel movements. It’s common for senior dogs to experience difficulty eating and going to the bathroom. Softer treats are a great way to remedy both issues. Soft treats are great for sensitive chewers as well as for those who struggle with constipation. The texture is easier on their teeth and provides more moisture than dry or hard snacks.
Toys
We don’t frequently think of updating our dog’s toy selection as they age, but it’s crucial to provide mental stimulation even if they can’t run as much as they used to. So, if your pup loved an enthusiastic game of fetch in their heyday, you’ll have to find an alternative that’s easier on their muscles. Opt for toys such as treat balls, which are equally exciting but less taxing.
