As your dog ages, you may notice that its activity levels start to decline. This can be a difficult time for you and your dog as you adjust to the changes that come with aging. While some loss of activity is normal and expected, there are many ways to support your pup to help them age gracefully and comfortably.
From changes in diet to finding new activities they enjoy, there are various ways to help your aging dog stay active and healthy. With little effort and understanding, you can make the most of your dog’s golden years and ensure they remain happy and comfortable.
Changes to Diet and Nutrition
One of the biggest challenges you may face as an aging dog owner is figuring out how to feed your dog. Fortunately, there are a few ways to help your pet maintain a healthy diet and help them stay active. The first thing you can do is put together a meal plan that your dog can easily follow through on.
Some dogs may need to be fed less often, while others may need to be fed more often or differently depending on their size and weight. You can also make a few adjustments to your pet’s diet as they age. For example, you might recommend adding a small amount of extra protein or fat to their diet at different times of the year.
Try New Activities
While your dog may not be able to do many things they used to, some new activities you can try will help them stay healthy and active as they age. One of the best ways for your dog to stay active is through various agility training. Many activities will keep your dog happy and active, whether learning to walk on a leash or jumping through hoops and tunnels.
You can also install exercise equipment in your house. This could be a small device like a treadmill or larger equipment such as stairs and ramps. Even if you don’t use the equipment, it will still be fun for your pet to use and interact with within their own time.
Join a Dog Sports Club
Joining a dog sports club is a great way to help your aging dog stay active and happy. If you want something more social or competitive, many clubs offer activities that your dog may enjoy. You can also find clubs that offer adult education classes and other types of training to build your pet up and prepare them for their new life roles.
Find the Right Supplements and Medications
As your dog ages, it is important to find the right medications and supplements to help them stay healthy and active. While you may be able to adjust your dog’s diet slightly, most of its health needs will be addressed through various medications and supplements.
Medications that help support joint health can go a long way toward keeping your dog happy and healthy in its golden years. WiggleLess dog support can help with joint mobility, and joint pain supplements can also be very beneficial in supporting your aging dog.
Schedule Regular Check-Ups
As your dog ages, you should schedule regular check-ups to check for potential health problems and keep a close eye on your pup. Many doctors recommend scheduling additional visits for your aging dogs and consulting with a vet about potential issues. These check-ups will help you understand how your dog changes over time and what you can do daily to help them remain happy and healthy.
Making the Most of The Time You Have
Throughout this process, you want to ensure that you are making the most of your time with your aging dog and doing everything you can to help them enjoy its golden years. Even if they are less active, your dog will still appreciate quality time with you. From playing fetch or going for a walk, many bonding opportunities will help keep your dog happy and active in its final years.
Conclusion
As your dog ages, giving them plenty of support and attention is important. From ensuring they eat the right foods to offering regular check-ups, you want to do everything you can for your aging pet. Making the most of your time together and keeping an eye out for any signs of trouble can ensure your dog enjoys a long and healthy life in its senior years. I hope you like reading on How to Support Your Dog as They Age and Struggle with Activity