10 Ways to help your senior dog feel young again

We all wish we could stop the clock and keep our four-legged friends forever young, but we can’t. What we can do is help them feel and act young for as long as possible, which is not only good for their overall health, but may even help them stick around longer. The following are 10 simple ways you can help your older dog feel and act like a puppy. And remember: “7” is not always the age that dogs are considered “seniors.” It really depends on their breed and overall health, so ask your vet when you should start thinking about these things to keep your dog healthy and young.

#1 – Exercise

“A body in motion stays in motion” – this is so true of our bodies! Pre-arthritic, or even arthritic, joints and aging muscles are less painful and do better when kept active. However, remember to take your dog’s health and age into account, you don’t want to overdo it. Ask your vet about how much and what type of exercise is best your for aging best friend.

#2 – Supplements

Joint supplements and vitamins can really make a difference in your dog’s activity level and overall health. Whether it’s sore joints, itchy skin or bowel issues, there’s probably a supplement that can help. Talk to you vet about the right supplements and dosages for your dog. We did an article recently on a key supplement a lot of owners are discovering – you can check that out here: How A Single Supplement Can Radically Change Your Dog’s Overall Health.

#3 – Swimming

Swimming at an indoor (heated for join comfort!) doggy pool is a great, low impact way, to keep your senior dog going strong. Look for one where the swim coach has experience with old dogs and even canine physical therapy so you can be sure your dog is in good hands.

#4 – Keep Using That Brain!

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from memory problems and even “doggy dementia.” Help your older dog stay mentally sharp but making them use that brain. Puzzle toys for their food, short training sessions, even a trick class or two are all great ways to keep your senior dog’s brain from getting lazy.

#5 – Diet

Make sure your senior dog’s diet is age-appropriate. If you are still feeding the same thing you fed him when he was two, you are probably feeding the wrong diet. Just like us, a dog’s nutritional needs changes as they get older and you need to make sure you adjust his diet accordingly.

#6 – Keep At A Healthy Weight

There are lots of reasons to keep the weight down on a senior dog – higher weight means increased risk for disease, more stress on joints, etc. Both overweight and weight loss can be signs of a problem, such as thyroid issue or cancer, so be sure you are monitoring his weight and if, despite your efforts he is gaining (or losing) too much, then see a vet.

#7 – Keep Playing

Even if your older dog can’t play for as long or as “rough” as he used to, it does not mean he doesn’t want to play at all. Don’t start ignoring him! Keep making sure you play a little every day with his favorite toy – it will keep his spirits up!

Video: OneRepublic - Feel Again

#8 – Go On Outings

Old dogs need out of the house too! While you may have to lift him into the car now and he may get tired quicker, he will stay younger longer if he is still getting out and exploring the world. Take him to the pet store for a favorite treat or for a lazy cup of coffee at your local café. Just remember to bring a soft bed for his old joints to lay on.

Video: Junior Senior - Move Your Feet (Official music video, HD)

#9 – Dental Health

We’ve all experienced how terrible a toothache can be – now imagine if you have no way of relieve the pain on your own? Dogs can’t take themselves to the dentist or take pain meds when their mouth hurts, so it’s up to you to take them in for cleanings to make sure everything is fine. Decaying teeth, gum disease, etc., can really take a toll on your dog’s body and make them act beyond their years. Chews like this can help keep plaque at bay in between brushings and cleanings.

#10 – Helping Aids

Things like floor runners so your dog can move fast without fear of slipping, orthopedic beds, dog stairs for beds and couches, will all help your dog continue to do all that he has always done, even with his aging body. Being aware of your dog developing limitations and helping him overcome them will not only keep him acting young, but will create a strong bond between you two.

Reviews & Comments