Five Top Tips for Those with Elderly Dogs

Much has been written about owning a new puppy, but much less spoken of are the demands presented by owning a dog in its senior years.  Modern advances in veterinary care mean that more and more dogs are living to a ripe old age – and although these senior years can be just as rewarding, for both you and for them, as their youthful glory days, they do bring a new set of challenges. Here are five top tips to help you prepare for when your dog becomes an OAP.

Know your breed

Different breeds of dogs are susceptible to different diseases and medical complaints- this is especially true in their older years. Make sure you know which conditions your breed of dog is at risk from, what symptoms to look out for and any preventative measures which can be taken. If you know what to look out for then you are much more likely to be able to get your dog the treatment which it requires before the problem gets out of hand.

Age is not an exact science

Different breeds of dog age at different rates, with smaller breeds often living much longer than their larger counterparts. However, even within breeds the aging process can have radically different effects. Our two Border Terriers were born within six months of each other, but Spike has aged much more quickly, in part due to health complications he suffered earlier in life. Whilst he tires very quickly, his buddy, Bess, is still as full of energy as ever. Their needs are very different and our care for them reflects that. Be in tune with how the aging process is affecting your dog.

Regular vet trips

Once a dog has entered its senior years it is a good idea to go and have them checked by the vet on a regular basis. We would recommend at least twice a year. These check-ups will allow you to monitor your dog’s health and ensure that their advancing years are not causing any unnecessary complications. Vets are also best placed to advise you on any supplements or changes in diet which may be beneficial for your pet.

Consider a senior dog food

As dogs age, their dietary requirements can change. Recent years have seen a huge growth in the number of specialist dog foods formulated for elderly dogs. However, as the aging process can have very different effects for each dog, working out which feed is best for yours may be best decided in consultation with your vet.

Specialist products

There are a wealth of specialist products to help make life easier for elderly dogs. These range from ramps to help access cars to raised feeding bowls which save your dogs from bending down to feed. Also popular are memory foam dog beds which are perfect for dogs suffering from arthritis. These products can be expensive but can greatly improve the quality of your pet’s life.

Extra attention to cleanliness

Elderly dogs are much more at risk from common infections or viruses. The best way to combat this, along with the correct diet, is to ensure that they and their belongings are kept sanitized. Ensure that all bowls, beds and blankets are kept nice and clean. Whilst grooming, be especially vigilant for fleas and ticks.