Caring for Your Senior Dog
Maybe you've noticed that your canine companion has started getting tired more easily. How old is your dog? How can you tell if your dog is approaching his golden years? Different types of dogs mature at different ages. It's helpful to remember that larger dogs tend to mature faster. If your dog is about seven years old, it's a good bet that he may be approaching advanced age. When your dog becomes a senior dog, his exercise, nutrition, and vet care needs are going to change.
Signs of Age: Old age in dogs shows itself in some of the same ways with people. Your dog will become more tired and have a lower energy level. He may want to nap more, or take a break from playing earlier. Your dog may seem to move stiffly after playing or napping. If you notice this stiffness and your dog seems to shake it off fairly quickly, it's likely that this is simply due to age. However, if you see that your dog seems to be favoring muscles or moving stiffly over a few days, consider going to the vet for a check-up to be sure there isn't an underlying condition or injury.
Exercise: A good exercise regimen can help your pet avoid problems common in the senior dog such as weight gain and arthritis. Exercise also improves digestion and circulation. A leisurely walk or two a day plus some low-key playing should do the trick.
Diet and Nutrition: Your puppy may have been happy with whatever was in his or her bowl, but now that your dog has aged, his dietary needs are different. Select a dog food that is appropriate for his needs. In general, a senior dog will not burn as many calories, so to prevent weight-gain, select a food with lower calories. Give your dog food that is high in protein, pet vitamins and minerals, that will give your dog strong healthy teeth and a glossy coat.
Going to the Dog Doc Veterinary care is vital for your dog's well-being. As your dog ages, they may have new kinds of physical issues they haven't experienced before, such as remedies for aching feet, or sore paws from walking on concrete and hard surfaces. Your dog may also suffer from new illnesses or pains that can affect different breeds. Besides asking your veterinarian, take time to read on what your dog's breed is prone to. Take your dog for his regular check-up and shots, and talk with your vet about whether twice-annual geriatric screenings would be a good idea. When you take care of your beloved dog, his golden years will be happier, healthier and more playful than ever.
Signs of Age: Old age in dogs shows itself in some of the same ways with people. Your dog will become more tired and have a lower energy level. He may want to nap more, or take a break from playing earlier. Your dog may seem to move stiffly after playing or napping. If you notice this stiffness and your dog seems to shake it off fairly quickly, it's likely that this is simply due to age. However, if you see that your dog seems to be favoring muscles or moving stiffly over a few days, consider going to the vet for a check-up to be sure there isn't an underlying condition or injury.
Exercise: A good exercise regimen can help your pet avoid problems common in the senior dog such as weight gain and arthritis. Exercise also improves digestion and circulation. A leisurely walk or two a day plus some low-key playing should do the trick.
Diet and Nutrition: Your puppy may have been happy with whatever was in his or her bowl, but now that your dog has aged, his dietary needs are different. Select a dog food that is appropriate for his needs. In general, a senior dog will not burn as many calories, so to prevent weight-gain, select a food with lower calories. Give your dog food that is high in protein, pet vitamins and minerals, that will give your dog strong healthy teeth and a glossy coat.
Going to the Dog Doc Veterinary care is vital for your dog's well-being. As your dog ages, they may have new kinds of physical issues they haven't experienced before, such as remedies for aching feet, or sore paws from walking on concrete and hard surfaces. Your dog may also suffer from new illnesses or pains that can affect different breeds. Besides asking your veterinarian, take time to read on what your dog's breed is prone to. Take your dog for his regular check-up and shots, and talk with your vet about whether twice-annual geriatric screenings would be a good idea. When you take care of your beloved dog, his golden years will be happier, healthier and more playful than ever.
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Jim Jawnson wrote this article, if you are interested in other articles, see our website
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