As our beloved canine companions grow older, it becomes increasingly important for us to understand the aging process they undergo and provide them with the care they need. Dogs, just like humans, experience changes in their bodies and behaviors as they enter their senior years.
In this article, we’ll explore the aging process in dogs and also delve into the key aspects of nutrition – from understanding the nutritional requirements specific to senior dogs to selecting the right dog food options. By prioritizing your senior dog’s dietary needs, you can help ensure that they maintain optimal health and vitality for as long as possible.
Whether you’re a proud owner of a senior dog or preparing for the future, this article will equip you with valuable insights and practical tips to ensure your furry friend’s well-being during this stage of life.
The Stages Of Dog Aging
Puppy
Puppyhood usually encompasses the first 6-7 months of a dog’s life, but it may last up to a year in bigger breeds. It’s a crucial period in a dog’s development, as this is when they’ll start to learn basic behavior and socialization.
It’s also the time for setting your puppy up on a good schedule for vaccinations and other necessary care. Your vet can advise you on the best plan for your specific pup.
Juvenile
The juvenile stage in dog aging typically occurs between the ages of 6 months and 2 years, depending on the breed.
During this stage, dogs experience significant physical and behavioral changes. Physically, they grow rapidly and develop their adult coat. Behaviorally, they may become more independent and curious, and their energy levels may increase.
It’s important to provide pups with appropriate exercise and training during this stage to ensure they develop into well-behaved adult dogs.
Adult
The adult stage of dog aging typically begins around the age of 2 and can last until the age of 7-8 years, depending on the breed.
During this stage, dogs will usually reach their full height and weight.
Behaviorally, adult dogs are generally more settled and may be less prone to destructive behavior or separation anxiety. However, they may also be more set in their ways and less adaptable to new environments or routines.
It’s important to provide adult dogs with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and routine veterinary care to help promote their health and well-being.
Middle Age
Middle age typically occurs when a dog reaches 50% of their life expectancy.
During this stage, dogs may experience physical and behavioral changes, such as joint discomfort, weight gain, and changes in nutritional needs. Some dogs may become less playful and more impatient with younger dogs.
It’s important to watch for changes in habits or behaviors at this age and to focus on regular veterinarian check-ups, a well-balanced diet, exercise, and mental stimulation.
Senior
The senior phase in a dog’s aging process refers to the later years of a dog’s life.
During this phase, joint discomfort is common and can lead to a decrease in mobility. Eye conditions, hearing loss, and skin growths are also frequent. Nutritional needs may change, and cognitive dysfunction may set in.1
What Are The Signs Of Aging In Dogs?
1. Reduced Mobility
As dogs age, they may experience reduced mobility and difficulty navigating their environment.
Owners may notice signs such as a reluctance to jump up on furniture or climb stairs, a wobbly gait, or stiffness after waking up.
Daily exercise, such as short walks and indoor games, can help promote strength and mental well-being. Accommodations, such as providing a cozy dog bed and using gates to block off stairs, can also help make your senior dog more comfortable.
Owners can also use mobility aids, like strollers and knee braces, for senior dogs with mobility issues.
2. Increased Susceptibility To Health Conditions
Senior dogs are prone to many age-related conditions, such as joint discomfort, skin growths, and impaired mental function. Joint conditions are especially common in large or giant-size breeds, while smaller dogs are prone to dental conditions.2,3
Older dogs also experience a decline in immune function, reducing their ability to fight illness.
Preventive care is essential, and it’s important to visit your vet for wellness exams every six months. Regular wellness exams are vital because dogs are stoic animals and may not always exhibit signs of illness.
3. Development Of Discomfort
Aging dogs may become more susceptible to developing ongoing discomfort due to various illnesses and injuries that become harder to recover from.
It’s important for pet owners to monitor their dog’s physical and behavioral changes, as they may indicate signs of chronic pain. Signs may include limping, whining, a decrease in activity levels, inability to jump up on things, changes in appetite, overgrooming in one area, unexplained aggression, and decreased interaction with humans or other pets.4
Pet owners should also make their senior dog as comfortable as possible by placing a cozy dog bed on the floor, placing gates in front of stairs, and investing in dog steps so the dog doesn’t have to jump on and off of furniture or in and out of the car.
4. Changes In Behavior
When dogs age, their behavior can change in many ways. They may become less active, have trouble climbing stairs or jumping up onto furniture, or have difficulty hearing or seeing.
Some dogs may become more anxious or stressed, while others may become confused and disoriented. It’s important to monitor your senior dog for any changes in behavior that persist for more than a week or so, as these could be signs of illness.
To support your dog’s changing needs, you can make changes to their environment and routine to keep them comfortable and happy.
This includes providing soft bedding, keeping their living space quiet and clutter-free, and avoiding sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. Regular visits to the vet can also help identify any hidden medical conditions.
5. Decline In Cognitive Function
Mental function can decline as a dog ages, which may also lead to behavioral changes. Owners might recognize the decline in their dog’s cognitive function – perhaps reduced energy, a wobbly gait, anxiety, or reactive behaviors.5
To support the mental health of senior dogs, owners can provide mental stimulation by incorporating at least 10 minutes of training each day, playing sensory games like hide and seek, and encouraging interaction with other dogs. Food puzzle toys can also provide wonderful mental stimulation.
6. Increased Need For Sleep
As dogs age, they require more sleep and rest. Senior dogs often take frequent naps and may sleep for longer periods. They may also experience changes in their sleep patterns, such as waking up during the night.
It’s important to let your dog rest undisturbed and provide a comfortable bed that supports their aging joints. However, lethargy and excessive sleepiness (or, in some cases, sleeping less) may also indicate underlying health issues.6 Regular vet check-ups can help detect and manage these conditions.
7. Weight Changes
A dog’s metabolism slows down as they age, which means they burn fewer calories and are more prone to weight gain. Weight gain is a major concern for senior dogs, as it can affect their quality of life and increase the risk of many health conditions. On the other hand, sudden weight loss in senior dogs may also indicate an underlying health condition.7
Signs of weight gain include a pot belly, loss of a defined waist, and difficulty feeling the ribs. Signs of weight loss include visible bones, muscle wasting, and a decrease in appetite. Regular vet check-ups can help identify any weight or health issues early on.
8. Skin And Coat Changes
Skin and coat texture may change with age and that can impact a canine’s appearance and overall health. Some common changes include dry, thinning skin, dull or thinning coats, and the development of skin growths. Senior dogs may also experience changes in skin pigmentation.8
To support senior dog skin and coat health, pet owners should provide a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes essential fatty acids and vitamins.
9. Decreased Ability To Digest Food
Some older dogs may not be able to digest proteins as well as they used to.9 This can lead to a variety of issues.
Specially formulated dog foods that are easier to digest can help with the general nutritional needs specific to senior dogs. By monitoring your senior dog’s eating habits and consulting with your vet, you can help ensure that your pet remains healthy and happy in their golden years.
How To Support Senior Dog Wellness With Nutrition
Supporting your dog’s wellness through nutrition is essential for ensuring their health, vitality, and quality of life as they age.
What Do Senior Dogs Need In Their Diet?
It’s best to feed your dog a high-quality diet early on, as it can help support their health and longevity for years to come. If your pup’s food needs an upgrade, there is no better time than right now. There are two important factors to consider, especially as a dog ages: protein and calories.10
How much protein is in the food, and what is the quality of that protein? Older dogs tend to lose muscle mass, so they need high-quality protein to counter this. When it comes to calories, senior dogs have a slower metabolism and simply may not need as much food as they once did.11
With protein, think about “real foods” – responsibly raised beef, nutrient-dense organ meats, and omega-packed salmon.
Good dog food should also incorporate whole grains, fruits, and gut-healthy vegetables to provide a diverse range of nutrients, like zinc, iron, vitamin E, niacin, selenium, vitamin A, biotin, vitamin B12, vitamin D3, folic acid, calcium. High-quality dog food may also offer canine-specific superfoods to help support your dog’s digestion, energy levels, and joints.
What Should Senior Dogs Avoid In Their Diet?
You’ll also want to ensure your pup’s food, no matter their age, does not contain meat meal, byproducts, or preservatives. Some dogs develop allergies to preservatives or dyes. Rendered products (like meat meal and byproducts) are low-quality fillers and considered unfit for human consumption. So, they’re definitely not healthy for pets.12,13
Consider Your Dog’s Individual Needs
A balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for dogs to help them maintain good health and quality of life. Always talk to your veterinarian to discuss any specific dietary needs your dog may have.
If you’re transitioning your dog to a new, healthier diet, it’s important to do it gradually to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Mix the old and new food, gradually increasing the amount of new food over a week or two until your dog is fully transitioned.
Depending on your dog’s individual needs, your vet may also recommend certain nutritional supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids for joint and coat health, antioxidants for immune support, or specific vitamins and minerals to address any deficiencies.
As senior dogs may have decreased activity levels, it’s important to monitor their portion sizes to prevent weight gain or obesity. Adjust the amount of food based on their activity level, metabolism, and any weight management goals that you have with your vet.
By providing a balanced and age-appropriate diet, you can help support your dog’s wellness, promote longevity, and ensure they enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Other Ways To Support Senior Dog Wellness
Step 1: Modify Your Senior Dog’s Exercise Regimen
As your dog ages, it is important to adjust its exercise routine. Your vet might recommend low-impact exercises, such as walks and swimming. Running and jumping should be avoided.14
It’s essential to keep the exercise regular and moderate, limiting the duration according to the dog’s fitness level and fatigue. Daily (or every other day) walks can help your senior dog maintain a healthy weight, heighten motor skills and coordination, stimulate cognitive capacity, and slow the progression of joint conditions.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate exercise routine for your senior dog’s physical condition.
Step 2: Watch For Signs Of Discomfort Or Changes In Behavior
It’s also important to monitor a senior dog’s behavior for signs of discomfort or illness. Look out for changes in eating, drinking, bathroom habits, or interactions with humans and other pets. Limping, whining, or unwillingness to play are potential signs of discomfort that should also be taken seriously.
Routine wellness exams with a veterinarian can help detect and treat emerging geriatric conditions, ensuring your senior dog stays healthy and happy.
Step 3: Consider Alternative Therapies For Your Senior Dog
In addition to gentle exercise, a healthy diet, and any medications your senior dog may be taking, there are also alternative therapies available to help support their wellness.
Before trying an alternative therapy, consult with your veterinarian to determine if it’s appropriate for your senior dog’s specific needs and health conditions.
Alternative Therapies For Senior Dogs:
- Placing warm towels from the dryer over sore joints can be soothing for your senior dog. This therapy is low-risk and may help relieve joint discomfort.
- Massage can help keep muscles soft and supple, increase blood flow to muscles and joints, and it feels great for your senior dog. It’s important to learn how to give a dog a massage properly to avoid causing any harm.
- Acupuncture can provide relief from discomfort for senior dogs. However, it’s important to find a licensed and experienced practitioner to perform the treatment.
- Sound therapy research has shown that music affects the nervous system in dogs, just like humans. In studies, classical music, like Beethoven, Brahms, Vivaldi, or Bach, resulted in less barking and more time spent in a restful state.15,16
Keep in mind that these alternative therapies should not replace medical treatments prescribed by a veterinarian. Always consult with a veterinarian before trying any new therapy for your senior dog.
Step 4: Consider Pet Insurance For Your Senior Dog
As dogs age, they become more susceptible to serious health conditions which can be financially burdensome for many pet owners. This is where pet insurance comes in handy, providing peace of mind that owners can afford the necessary care for their beloved senior dogs.
Some pet insurance companies may not cover pre-existing conditions, so always check the fine print thoroughly.17
Step 5: Regular Vet Visits
To support senior dogs, regular veterinary check-ups are absolutely crucial. It’s best to have a wellness check-up every six months – a lot can happen in a senior dog’s body in just six months.
During these check-ups, the vet will perform a physical exam, check blood work, and examine the teeth. Catching problems early can help promote your dog’s quality of life.
Wrapping Up
Understanding the aging process is key for providing optimal care and supporting a dog’s quality of life as they enter their senior years. By recognizing the physical and behavioral changes that accompany aging, you can adapt your approach to meet their evolving needs.
From regular vet visits and exercise plans to providing them with a comfortable environment, mental stimulation, and plenty of love and compassion, you can greatly enhance your dog’s well-being.
Additionally, you should focus on high-quality nutritional dog food with premium ingredients, no fillers, and plenty of vitamins and minerals. This will provide them with the greatest nutrition for their age.
Remember, your pup has given you years of love and companionship, and it’s your responsibility to return the favor by giving them the care and attention they deserve. By embracing the aging process and implementing the appropriate care strategies, you can ensure that your furry friend enjoys their golden years to the fullest.
Sources
1-2. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/senior-pets
3. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dental-problems-differ-for-large-and-small-dogs/
4. https://vetmed.tamu.edu/news/pet-talk/chronic-pain-part-1/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6943310/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10175583/
7.https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=9776221
8.https://www.dvm360.com/view/management-common-dermatological-problems-older-dogs-proceedings
9. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17415349.2021.1951635
10-11. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=9776221
12. https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952662
13.https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/evr_pet_food_for_your_pets_sake
14. https://www.petmd.com/dog/wellness/evr_dg_exercise_for_your_senior_dog
15.https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/holistic-care-can-help-dog/
16.https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/arts-and-health/200803/songs-to-soothe-the-panicked-pooch
17.https://www.petmd.com/general-health/does-pet-insurance-cover-pre-existing-conditions
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