How To Keep An Old Dog Healthy

Any pet is a part of the family, but when your dog gets older, they are a hugely established part of daily life and have probably been around for as long as your children can remember. Any pet parent will want to make sure that their dog is happy and healthy and can continue living the life they love as they grow older. This guide is here to help you learn how you can make sure that your older dog is as happy and healthy as possible.

1. Watch Your Dog's Weight 

While slipping your dog the odd treat or two might seem like a harmless way of showing them love, it can actually have the opposite effect, damaging their health in the long run. This is because when your dog puts on weight, they are putting more strain on their joints, leading to arthritis. Some dog breeds, such as the Labrador, are more prone to joint problems, so as well as watching what you feed them, you should also give them joint support treatment for dogs with bad mobility from Buddy and Lola. 

Overfeeding your dog can also lead to a number of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and other illnesses. If you are not able to feel your dog's bones through their ribs, this is likely a sign that they are overweight, and you should cut down on the amount you are feeding them.

2 Keep Your Pet Active 

Just because your dog is getting older, this does not mean that they should stop being active altogether. Instead, you should follow a consistent but reduced exercise schedule for older dogs or taking your dog for a walk. If your dog is old enough that can barely walk then a dog stroller is a good option. Your dog will need regular exercise to maintain healthy joints, weight, and muscles. You should take them on slow walks once a day to keep them active.

3. Teach an Old Dog New Tricks 

Your dog will love to learn and make your pound, and this desire does not diminish as they age. Teaching an older dog new tricks can also help to slow down brain aging and reduce boredom in older dogs.

4. Treat Them Like Royalty 

Pampering your dog can help them feel more loved and happier, which will increase their well-being. There are many things that you can do to pamper your older dog. For example, you could learn pet massage, take them to the groomers to look after their skin and coat, or you could heat up their food before serving to make it easier for them to chew and produce a more enticing smell.

5. Take Things Easy 

As dogs age, their eyesight can become reduced, and they can start to feel less steady on their feet. So, you should make their life as easy as possible by ensuring that your home is a safe and comfortable space for your older dog. This means getting your children to pick up their toys from the floor, so your dog has a clear path to walk. If you have lots of stairs in your house, you might need to make them more accessible to your pet or make them a comfortable space downstairs.