How to Properly Care for Aging Dogs

If you have a dog that is starting to get up in years, it likely needs some special care. Senior dogs are wonderful companions to have, but they do require special nutrition and help from their owners. Here are some tips for taking good care of your dog during its last years.

Keep the Dog on a Strict Diet

Your dog needs to be fed only nutritious food. Even if you used to feed it some table scraps, you should stop doing this when it ages. Dogs need a special diet and certain nutrients as they get older. Make sure you choose an all-natural dog food specifically meant for senior dogs. It will be made of only natural ingredients, including vitamins and minerals that help keep your dog healthy and strong. Talk to your vet if you aren't sure which food is appropriate for your dog.

Keep an Eye on the Dog's Weight

Your dog's weight needs to be kept down to reduce stress on its joints. Your dog may seem like it is in great physical condition, possibly even still a highly active dog. However, its joints will start having problems as it gets older if it is overweight. In addition to obesity, also look for signs that the dog is underweight. This might be due to not eating enough or having a certain medical condition. Your veterinarian can tell you ways to help the dog lose or gain weight in its old age if necessary. Part of managing your dog's weight is helping it get regular exercise. Think of more gentle exercises for the dog, such as going on slow walks, or letting it swim laps in a pool if it enjoys water. Try not to overwork or push the dog too much in its old age.

Visit the Vet More Often

When your dog gets older, expect to take it to the vet more often than you used to. The vet will need to keep an eye on the dog's joints, look for signs of illness, and look for signs that the dog is in pain. It can often be difficult for an owner to see signs of discomfort or pain, which the vet will be able to notice more easily. Prevention is much better than needing surgery or other medical treatments, so don't put off going to the vet. Also don't leave anything up to chance with a senior dog. At any sign of trouble, bring it to the vet just for a check-up. Hopefully it is nothing, but it is better to find out for sure.