As our dogs age, their needs and experiences change. Just like us, they go through physical and mental transitions that can make life a bit more challenging. But with the right care, understanding, and activities, the golden years can be a time for celebration, bonding, and joy. At Dogma, we want to help you make these years the best yet for your senior pup.
Understanding the Changes in Your Senior Dog
As dogs get older, they will likely experience changes in their health and behaviour. These changes can sometimes be confusing, but a little knowledge can go a long way in ensuring you can best support your dog so they stay happy, comfortable, and mentally engaged.
Health Changes:
Joint Stiffness and Mobility Issues: As dogs age, they may develop arthritis or experience muscle weakening, making movement more difficult. You may notice your dog slowing down, having trouble jumping, or taking longer to get up after lying down.
Vision and Hearing Loss: Many senior dogs experience a decline in their senses, such as hearing or eyesight. This can lead to confusion or anxiety, especially in new environments or unfamiliar situations.
Changes in Digestion: Senior dogs may also experience slower digestion or changes in appetite. It’s important to provide food that’s easy to digest and ensure they maintain a healthy weight.
Behavioural Changes:
Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS): Just like humans, dogs can suffer from cognitive decline as they age. This can manifest as confusion, disorientation, disrupted sleep patterns, and increased anxiety.
Decreased Energy Levels: While senior dogs may not have the same enthusiasm for long walks or play sessions, many still love gentle activities that stimulate their mind and body.
Understanding these changes helps us better support our senior dogs by adapting our routines and interactions to ensure their comfort and happiness.
Keeping Your Senior Dog Engaged and Active
While your senior dog may not be able to perform like they did in their younger years, it’s still essential to keep them mentally and physically active. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity, as it helps keep their brains sharp and reduces the risk of cognitive decline. We’ve outlined some areas to keep in mind with your senior dog:
Enrichment
Keep your dog mentally engaged through enrichment activities. This can include puzzle and interactive toys. Scent work is a wonderful way to engage your senior dog’s mind while keeping their body relaxed. Scent-based activities are non-strenuous but incredibly stimulating, offering your dog a chance to use their natural abilities. This can help keep their minds sharp and satisfied. Plus, it’s a low-impact way to enrich their life.
Trick Training
It’s never too late to teach your senior dog new tricks! Training can provide both mental and physical stimulation while strengthening your bond. Whether it’s learning to touch a target or simply practicing basic commands, these activities can boost your dog’s confidence and mental agility. It’s an easy way to keep them engaged and have a fun time together.
Cooperative Care
Cooperative care training helps your dog to enjoy activities like brushing or nail trimming and it also make grooming more enjoyable and stress-free for you both. Grooming is essential to keep your dog healthy and helps us to be more aware of physical changes in our dogs. Keeping their nails short, ears and teeth clean, and coat brushed and well-kept are important for their well-being, so take the time to ensure they are comfortable with these exercises.
Gentle Fitness & Exercises
Physical fitness is important to maintain your dog’s mobility and overall health, but it should be gentle for senior dogs. Short, low-impact walks, balance exercises, and simple stretching routines can help maintain muscle tone and flexibility. Speak with your vet or a physical rehab specialist on exercises that promote joint health without overexerting your dog.
The Importance of Understanding Their Needs
Life can be confusing for a senior dog as they navigate these changes. They may not fully understand why they feel differently or why their body isn’t working the way it used to. This is where we, as pet parents, play a crucial role. By better understanding the changes happening in our senior dogs' bodies and minds, we can better support them with patience, love, and appropriate care.
The Golden Years can be a time of deep connection and joy, but it takes intentional effort to ensure your dog is comfortable and thriving. With proper care, attention to their needs, and activities that stimulate both their mind and body, you can help your senior dog make the most of these precious years.
Let’s Celebrate Their Golden Years
Your dog’s golden years are a time to honour their journey and create new memories together. By providing mental enrichment, gentle physical exercise, and understanding their changing health needs, you’ll be able to support your dog through this stage with love and compassion.
Our Golden Years Workshop Series is designed to give you the tools, techniques, and knowledge you need to ensure your dog remains happy, healthy, and engaged. It’s never too late to make a difference in their well-being, and these years are the perfect time to deepen your bond because your senior dog deserves the very best!
