Taking Good Care of Your Aging 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.
Signals of Age: As a dog ages, their energy level will drop. You'll notice he sleeps more, or becomes tired more quickly after playing. Your older dog may begin to move stiffly after playing or getting up from a nap. How can you look for the signs of normal wear-and-tear versus an injury? If your dog seems to shake it off, it's probably just weariness from age. If your dog seems to get worse day by day, then take him or her to the vet to check for another condition.
Exercise and Play: Exercising regularly and vigorously is one of the best ways to help your senior dog avoid problems with weight gain or arthritis. Exercise has other added benefits, such as aiding digestion and improving circulation. Try to walk your dog once or twice each day, and do some low-intensity playing.
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 Vet: Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose your dog if he or she is experiencing any emotional or physical changes as they age. Some dogs can develop sore and raw feet, or aching paws from walking on concrete or hard surfaces. Illnesses and pains that only affect older dogs can vary based on age, location and breed. Research your dog's breed and the types of conditions that he or she is prone to get in advanced age. Ensure that he or she gets their regular check-ups and shots. Ask your vet about having twice-annual geriatric screenings. By taking care of your dog, you'll ensure that his or her golden years are happy and comfortable with you!
Signals of Age: As a dog ages, their energy level will drop. You'll notice he sleeps more, or becomes tired more quickly after playing. Your older dog may begin to move stiffly after playing or getting up from a nap. How can you look for the signs of normal wear-and-tear versus an injury? If your dog seems to shake it off, it's probably just weariness from age. If your dog seems to get worse day by day, then take him or her to the vet to check for another condition.
Exercise and Play: Exercising regularly and vigorously is one of the best ways to help your senior dog avoid problems with weight gain or arthritis. Exercise has other added benefits, such as aiding digestion and improving circulation. Try to walk your dog once or twice each day, and do some low-intensity playing.
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 Vet: Your veterinarian will be able to diagnose your dog if he or she is experiencing any emotional or physical changes as they age. Some dogs can develop sore and raw feet, or aching paws from walking on concrete or hard surfaces. Illnesses and pains that only affect older dogs can vary based on age, location and breed. Research your dog's breed and the types of conditions that he or she is prone to get in advanced age. Ensure that he or she gets their regular check-ups and shots. Ask your vet about having twice-annual geriatric screenings. By taking care of your dog, you'll ensure that his or her golden years are happy and comfortable with you!
About the Author:
Jim Jawnson writes about this and other related subjects. If you are interested in more articles click here
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