How to Care for Senior Dogs

Senior dogs have different care requirements than those of a younger dog. This fact probably doesn’t be a surprise to anyone.

Dogs in many cases are older than we think they are, specially when we’ve had them as puppies as time marches on by and we have always been accustomed to their energetic behaviour. There’s a wide breed variation with what constitutes older age as with most cases, small dogs live an extended, while large and giant breeds have relatively short lifespans (an excellent Dane is considered ‘old’ at six). And a dog’s breed, specific lifestyle factors affect just how long a particular dog will live, for example diet, exercise and track record. As the owner of an older dog you need to recognise tell-tale signs of illness so that you can seek prompt veterinary attention. Here are some tips for caring for your senior dog. Here are some tips:

Mind Games

Mental stimulation is needed throughout a dog’s life. Whether it is a six month old puppy or a ten year old dog, all dogs need brain exercises. A few of the more low key workouts are to give the dog a puzzle toy full of treats appropriate for a senior dog. Teach them simple tasks suited to their physical needs, like the names of certain toys. Once they learn the specific names, place a toy in another room and have them fetch the toy.

Exercise for Senior Dogs

Exercise is another aspect of preventive geriatric take care of your dog. You should definitely keep your dog going because he gets older-if he is cooped up or kept laying, his body will deteriorate much  more quickly. Jogging with your arthritic dog might not be appropriate, but swimming along with other low-impact activities are great for dogs with joint pain and arthritis. Keeping your dog active mentally and physically helps your dog stay in top condition. Of course, dogs should wear a Dependable Dog Collar and Leash whenever outside, and Dog ID Tags are a must for any canine's safety.

Dog Dental Disorders

Dental disorders can generally be prevented by regular cleaning. Recreational raw beef marrow bones really are a wonderful way to keep the teeth clean, providing the vet considers these appropriate for your senior (sometimes vets would rather stay away from raw, for the very young and old or immune compromised pets). Check with your vet first. Providing dog dental care at home may improve a senior dog’s total health if there is tartar build-up. Dog Oral health Supplies such as dental wipes, durable chew toys or even a simple baking soda & water paste put on the teeth can all form a part of your senior’s dental care plan.

Nutrition

There are lots of senior dog foods on the market, but not all of them are suited to maintain optimum health for older dogs. Look for a food that keeps protein towards the top of the list. The ingredient list should list a protein first (chicken, beef, lamb etc.) Whether it lists a grain first move along to another. Another thing a senior dog needs is definitely an appropriate level of Omega-6 which gets to be more important to maintain healthy skin and coat in aging dogs.

Inspections

Take a few moments every week or so to consider unusual bumps, lesions, or skin discoloration on the body. While some bumps or lesions are harmless, they must be checked by a veterinarian to eliminate a tumor. Watch the dog’s gait, being conscious of a new limp or favoring of one leg over another. This could be a sign of arthritis, the start of dysplasia, or something in the spine. Another aspect to help keep an eye on is attitude. When the dog becomes aggressive, inactive, or starts to act different than normal, schedule an appointment with the vet. There might be a brain tumor developing or pain is promoting somewhere.