Life with a senior dog. Even if we don’t want to, our beloved dogs also grow old, and it is inevitable for us owners to share this last phase with them, which, as with humans, certainly needs more attention and care.
At what age does the dog become old?
A dog always needs specific care that is suitable and compatible with every age group. Still, as it ages, it becomes even more important to change its habits and behaviour to accommodate its new needs.
These concern food, the frequency of vet visits, exercise and playtime, and sleeping hours. Of course, every animal has specific needs, depending on breed, size, personal predisposition, and individual characteristics.
In principle:
- A small dog (0 to 9kg) is considered senior at 11 years old.
- A medium-sized one (10 to 22kg) from age 10.
- A large dog (23 to 40 kg) from the age of 8.
- While giant dogs (over 40kg) from the age of 7.
There are also dogs that, being healthy, active, and agile, show the signs of age later. However, others who may be ill or inactive may show particular age-related needs even before the general indications.
In any case, entering this phase is highly individual and should always be approached with awareness, respect and love for one’s dog.
Nutrition and check-ups
Concerning diet, it is best to follow the advice of your veterinary surgeon, who will undoubtedly be able to recommend the most appropriate and healthy food for your pet.
However, as a general rule, because the calorie requirements of older dogs are 10%-20% lower than those of younger dogs, it is possible to adapt the quantities of meals to avoid unnecessary weight gain in the dog.
A few illnesses, tiredness or simply age make our pet less patient, and his ability to adapt also decreases. For example, being surrounded by noisy children will not be easy for him. We, therefore, teach children to respect them at this stage too.
The best choice is to feed low-fat but highly palatable food, as the sense of smell and taste diminish in older animals.
A correct diet also ensures that the dog is not overweight, which could worsen common diseases in senior dogs, such as osteoarthritis or joint problems.
In addition to the diet and any additions of specific nutrients (such as Omega-3), which should always be determined with your veterinary doctor, regular check-ups are also important. They are essential for the early identification of senile diseases and treatment planning. Therefore, a check-up every 6-12 months is strongly recommended, as it can save or prolong his Life in many cases.
New Habits in the Life of a Senior Dog
In addition, as a dog ages, behavioural changes may occur, such as incontinence, changes in sleeping habits, less interaction with owners, and decreased physical activity. All this must be respected and indulged in; the dog must do what it feels like, according to its abilities and energy.
However, his interest must be kept alive to keep his mind fresh and active, with games and activities adapted to his new needs. In fact, just as people do, our four-legged friends need external stimuli to remain active and dynamic.
Cases of ‘senile dementia‘ can also occur in our pets (this also justifies strange behaviour that we may notice in our dog, such as staring at the wall), and mental activity, as well as physical activity, is essential to combat it.
No stress
It is also essential to avoid sudden changes and stressful situations, which may be difficult for an elderly dog to cope with.
Illness, tiredness or simply age make our dogs less patient, and their ability to adapt decreases.
For example, it will not be easy for him to be surrounded by children running and screaming or even by other dogs, perhaps puppies, who want to play, run and jump.
A dog always needs specific care suitable and compatible with every age group. Still, it is even more important to change its habits and behaviour to accommodate its new needs when it becomes older.
Instead, he will need quiet, low-noise places where he will decide when and how to play.
Let us not forget that elderly dogs often have reduced visual and hearing acuity. These problems may make them feel fragile and insecure about the outside world.
Our job is to make them feel safe and secure in every situation.
Life with a senior dog needs more love.
Although a senior dog requires us to practice a few tricks, let us not underestimate the power of love that it can still give us. Their affection and closeness become even more precious and unique: we become their support and only point of reference, and their gaze will never cease to remind us of this.
Being with our pet’s senior is an enriching, sensitising experience. Although it can bring sadness and fear, it can also fill our hearts and minds with beautiful, unforgettable memories.
Three orthopaedic beds for your old dog’s well-being, chosen by us:
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