
As your dog begins to age, it can be difficult for pet owners to know the best way to keep their pets agile and healthy. We all want the best for our dogs, even in old age. “Old age” is different for each dog breed. Typically, smaller breeds begin to slow down when they are around 10, medium-sized dogs at the age of 8, and bigger dogs around the age of 5. As they get older, they will slow down, possibly develop sight and sound difficulties, and many dogs have difficulties with organ failure, or they become obese.
One of the most important aspects of making sure that your pet is aging gracefully is maintaining a healthy diet for your dog. As dogs get older, it is much easier for them to put on weight and become obese. Maintaining dog food that is low in calories and in fat content is going to be the best option for your dogs.
Hand in hand with a light diet, keeping them moving and exercising them is just as important. They will not be as agile as they were when they were younger, so talk to your vet about tips to keep them active. Even a fraction of movement that they used to do is still great for a senior dog.
The final, most important tip for caring for senior dogs is taking them to your vet regularly and maintaining their cleanliness. Vet checkups are important for your furry friend at any time in their life, senior or not. But it is crucial that senior dogs have regular vet visits to examine their weight gain and to check for organ failures or heart problems. Keeping them clean by giving them regular baths will keep their hair from matting, as well as make them feel more comfortable themselves.
Senior dogs are just as important to take care of as puppies. Make sure that you are checking on your senior dogs and doing as much as you can to make them feel the best that they can. Our business will help them look the best that they can.