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It is normal to worry about your dog’s health declining as they age. Like humans, canines will slow down, become less social, and gain or lose weight as they grow older. Yet, some tactics can slow down the aging process.
The age they become a senior dog is determined by their breed, and some may display signs of aging sooner or later than others. Most small dogs will live up to 15 years, and they might show signs of aging between 9 and 11 years. However, larger breeds may live up to 8 to 10 years and become seniors at 6 years old.
As their owner, it is natural you will want to make their elder years as healthy, enjoyable, and comfortable as possible. To do exactly that, read the best ways to make a senior dog feel young again.
Alter Your Aging Dog’s Diet
Every dog owner should talk to a vet about the best food for their aging pet. Your pooch’s nutritional and calorie needs will change as they grow older. Discuss with a vet about the best food and portion sizes for your senior dog, as they could help you devise a nutritional diet plan to match their specific needs.
Introduce Supplements
Dog supplements can protect your pooch’s health and should accompany a balanced, nutritious diet suitable for their age and breed. Fish oil is a good supplement choice for senior dogs, as it is anti-inflammatory and can manage various health issues, such as heart or joint problems. Also, it can help your dog develop a shiny coat and good skin. Again, consult a vet before introducing supplements into a dog’s diet.
Closely Monitor Their Health
Senior dogs can experience behavioral changes as they grow older. For example, they might become aggressive, develop increased thirst, or lose their appetite. While you might put the out-of-character actions down to frustration or an aging lifestyle, the changes could be due to a health condition.
If your senior dog experiences any behavioral changes, take them along to an affordable veterinary clinic for an exam. Visit easyvet.com to find a location near you. You can schedule an appointment or walk into the clinic immediately to care for your dog’s needs.
Adjust Their Exercise Plan
Adult dogs are prone to more aches and pains than puppies and younger dogs. While they might have once happily chased after a ball for two hours without rest, a long stretch of physical activity can place strain on their aging musculoskeletal system.
Canines who embark on a 20-minute daily walk are often more comfortable compared to dogs that experience long stretches of exercise. Also, embrace different walking routes to improve their mental stimulation, as exploring and sniffing are more beneficial cognitively than a brisk walk along a repetitive path.
Growing older doesn’t need to equal various health issues for your pooch. If you follow the above advice, your dog can enjoy many happy, healthy, and comfortable golden years.
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Shawn Halligan
Written on November 10, 2021
Hello! Really nice article, if a dog is getting older, we need to monitor their every activity. We should make the right diet plan according to his health and walk with him daily. You are covering very helpful points to take care of him and make him feel comfortable during the situation. Keep writing.