How to keep your senior dog feeling young
Sometimes, it’s hard to believe your dog isn’t a puppy anymore. They still love going for a walk, they still get excited at the sound of the doorbell, and they still absolutely adore their squeaking duck beyond all reason!
But, just like humans, our pets change as they age. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye on them and give them the support they need when they need it.
In this guide, we share our top tips on caring for your older dog so can enjoy even more adventures together.
Taking care of your older dog: 4 simple steps
Watch their weight
Overfeeding your dog, or giving them too many treats, can cause weight gain, which can impact their joint health and wellbeing
Moderate exercise levels
Regular, gentle exercise can help maintain a good range of motion, helping retain muscle mass and support joints and mobility
Keep their brain active
Mental exercise is important for your older dog too – toys and games can help keep their body and mind active
Make simple changes at home
Non-slip rugs, raised feeding bowls, a well-padded bed and car ramps can all make life easier for your dog
Signs your older dog may need extra joint support
It’s not always easy to tell when your dog needs joint support. Here are some signs to look out for:
- Difficulty getting up after rest
- Reluctant to walk, jump and play
- Seeming quieter than usual
- Lagging behind on walks
- Sleeping more
- Excessively licking their joints
If you’ve spotted any of these signs, or have any concerns, please speak to your vet
Caring for an active older dogs
Most people expect their senior dog to slow down, but what if yours is still bouncing around like a Duracell Bunny?
We know there’s nothing better than watching your dog racing around and having fun but, if you’re not careful, they could end up overdoing it. For that reason, opt for short, regular walks instead of long treks and limit high-impact games like fetch.
Your vet will be able to advise you specifically about how much activity is best for your older dog.
Digestion and your older dog
While your dog’s digestive systems and taste buds aren’t as complex as yours, it’s still important to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need as they age.
Their diet should be balanced, and you should be careful not to overfeed – especially as your older dog may not be as active as they once were. Too much food and too little exercise can lead to them becoming overweight or potentially, obese.
Skin and coat care in later years
As your dog reaches their senior years, you can expect to see changes to their skin and fur. For example, you might notice grey hairs – particularly around the muzzle – and sometimes longer, more brittle nails.
The outer layer of their skin can also become thickened (also known as hyperkeratosis). This is often noticeable on an older dog’s pads and nasal area. If these areas appear dry and cracked, it may be necessary to apply softeners/emollient ointments to keep them moisturised. Your vet can advise which is the most appropriate for your dog.
Dental care as your dog ages
Whether you’re a committed brusher or have struggled to establish a regular dental routine, it’s never too late to make a fresh start.
Keeping your dog’s teeth healthy as they age is important, because poor oral health can lead to smelly breath and sore gums. If your pet’s mouth isn’t healthy, it can also affect their appetite and ability to eat properly.
Gold standard cleaning involves brushing at least three times a week. However, if that’s not possible here are some simple tips to help you (alongside training to get your dog used to brushing). Adding a daily dental powder to their food can help keep plaque and tartar at bay. Alternatively, your dog may prefer a daily dental stick, like YuMOVE Daily Clean, which is designed to reduce plaque and tartar and freshen breath.
Signs of poor dental health
If you notice any of these signs, or have any concerns, please speak to your vet.
Brown staining on the teeth
Bad breath
Red or inflamed gums
Changes to eating habits
Drooling more than usual
Pawing at mouth
Spotting signs of anxiety in your older dog
As your pet ages they may experience changes in their sight and hearing. Apart from the more obvious challenges this might present, your dog may experience a loss of confidence or increased anxiety as they try to navigate their new normal.
It’s important to take notice of the physical symptoms of your dog’s nervousness. While some dogs display more obvious signs – such as shaking, tucked-in tails, and hiding – others may have subtler body language when stressed, such as opening their eyes wide, yawning, and turningaway.
Tips to support your nervous dog
Stay calm
Dogs pick up on your mood, especially if you're visibly stressed out
Avoid stressful situations
Putting pressure on your pup to be confident can feel like a punishment
Go at their pace
Building confidence take time. Giving them time and space to be brave will be worth it in the end
If you have any concerns about your pet’s behaviour, please speak to your vet. YuMOVE subscribers can also speak to a vet free of charge via phone, text video call with a free PawSquad membership.
Choosing the right multivitamin for your senior dog
If you’re ever felt a bit run down, chances are you reached for a multivitamin to help perk you up.
When it comes to your dog, choosing a multivitamin that’s suited to their age is the way to go. This will help ensure you’re giving them the right support for their life stage.
A good multivitamin will cover a multitude of bases, providing nutritional support for everyday wellness, digestion, skin and coat health, joints, the heart, immune system, liver, brain and vision.
Enjoying an active future together
Your senior dog has been by your side through thick and thin, and you want to keep it that way. By watching their weight, ensuring regular exercise, and keeping their mind and body active, you can help them enjoy more fun-filled adventures for years to come.
And remember to book regular check-ups with your vet, so you can talk about any concerns you have about your dog’s health.
