How To Improve the Quality of Life for An Older Dog
It is estimated that there are around 200,000 working dogs in New Zealand but in many cases, these dogs are put down when their careers come to an end, either through injury or old age. A Kiwi charity, Retired Working Dogs NZ, says it can’t keep up with the demand from people wanting to adopt older working dogs and is urging farmers to consider donating dogs that are no longer fit for farm life.
As dogs start to age it is important to start providing activities to keep them mentally active and happy and to help them move around comfortably and safely. You might notice your working dog struggling to jump into the back of the ute or keep up with the work. They could still be running around, eating well, and have some mild arthritis or joint mobility problems but nothing severe enough to be a major problem. If this is the case, you might consider making some adjustments to cater to your dog’s life stage.
What do you do when your dog grows old?
There are several steps you can take when your working dog starts to grow older to ensure they live a comfortable and healthy life. You may already be noticing your older working dog is slowing down, their joints might appear stiffer, and they can’t work for as long as they used to without needing a break.
Some simple steps you can take are to incorporate a new diet focused on senior nutrition. Some of these include:
You may also consider supplements such as 4Cyte which is a great product for joint recovery after a long day as a working dog. There are also the granules in 4Cyte which can be sprinkled on your dog's food. Antinol is another supplement that can help with joint issues and general wellness.
How can you keep a senior dog happy and healthy?
There are several steps that you can take to keep your old dog happy and healthy. One of the most common is a change in diet and lifestyle change. Dogs don’t complain much, which is why it can be hard to figure out what they need but daily exercise is a great way to keep your old dog moving.
You can try a maximum of 20 minutes of exercise daily, whether that be a walk or creating a mentally stimulating environment by still taking them out for the farm work where they can still be a part of the action by watching other dogs or doing a little bit of yard work before having a break. Small activities are great for circulation and joint mobility in senior dogs.
There are several steps you can take to keep your old dog happy and healthy. One of the most common changes in nutrition is diets specifically formulated for seniors, but many aging dogs can still thrive on their existing adult food. The main concern for nutrition for old dogs is obesity and inappetence.
At least 56% of dogs are overweight or obese and this excess weight can lead to health-related problems, especially in old dogs.
You may also like to consider adjustments around the home to make it more comfortable for your old dog to move around. These will vary depending on your dog’s needs but include:
- Ramps or steps to help them get up or down from beds, sofas or cars
- Pee pads and diapers for incontinence issues
- Orthopedic dog beds for extra support and comfort when sleeping
- Rug markers for dogs with failing eyesight
Another option is to invest in some non-slip mats so when your aging dog is getting up and down from the floor and walking into areas where there is tile or wood, they can move with ease.
How can I properly take care of my old dog?
Early detection of the disease means your senior dog will have more manageable symptoms and live more comfortably in their golden years. As dog’s age, they may develop some sensitives which means they might require a specific diet suited to their needs. This is best discussed with your veterinarian so they can decide which product will be most beneficial.
Dogs don’t complain much, which is why it can be hard to figure out what they need but looking for subtle changes in normal behaviour can be a sign.
You may also like to consider adjustments around the home to make it more comfortable for your old dog to move around. These will vary depending on your dog’s needs but include:
- Pee pads and diapers for incontinence issues.
- Orthopedic dog beds for extra support and comfort when sleeping.
- Rug markers for dogs with failing eyesight.
- Ramps or steps to help them get up or down from beds, sofas or cars.
Another option is to invest in some non-slip mats so when your aging dog is getting up and down from the floor and walking into areas where there is tile or wood, they can move with ease.
Here are some changes you can make for your senior dog’s lifestyle:
- Changing your senior dog’s food will help them with joint issues, and arthritis and provide the nutrients they need in their senior dog years.
- Take slower, shorter, and more frequent walks with more time allowed for scenting. For most older dogs' small amounts of exercise are still a fantastic way to prevent muscle atrophy, even if they can’t go as far as they used to.
- Teaching new tricks is a great way to mentally stimulate your dog if they are struggling to walk. There is an old saying that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” but you can with a little bit of patience and their favourite rewards.
- Another great activity for your old dog is foraging. Hide little treats with a strong, delicious smell around the house, yard or somewhere outside for your dog to use nose work and find. This is great.
- If you have a working dog mental stimulation of their surroundings on the farm can be a great way to keep your older dog healthy and active.
There are several steps you can take to keep your old dog happy and healthy. One of the most common changes is nutrition, there are diets specifically formulated for seniors, but many aging dogs can still thrive on their existing adult food. The concern for nutrition for old dogs is obesity and inappetence. At least 56% of dogs are overweight or obese and this excess weight can lead to health-related problems, especially in senior dogs.
How can I properly take care of my old working dog?
Early detection of the disease means your senior dog will have more manageable symptoms and live more comfortably in their golden years. As dog’s age, they may develop some sensitives which means they might require a specific diet suited to their needs. This is best discussed with your veterinarian so they can decide which product will be most beneficial.
Let’s chat and connect! Talk with our trusted Your PetPA NZ experts with your pet's concerns via our website or App and Join us Pet PA community of fur parents on Facebook and Instagram.
Shop at Your Pet PA today and get exclusive 10% thriving pets member's discount on all vet-recommended brands purchases.
