The time has come. Your cute puppy has grown up and they are starting to get older. Maybe their energy has decreased or they’ve developed a little gray on their muzzle. It’s tough to see our dogs age, but there are ways we can help keep them healthy!
How Old is Senior?
Seven (7) is the average age for dogs to be considered seniors. This varies due to the size of the dog. Large dogs have shorter lives and may be seniors as early as five. Smaller dogs might not be seniors until the age of 10 as they can live longer lives.
Increased Health Issues
Just like humans, as dogs age, their bodies start to deteriorate. Common health issues that start to arise are (Hills):
- Dementia
- Hearing Loss
- Vision Loss
- Joint problems
- Heart Disease
- Decreased Immunity
- Cancer
- Kidney Issues
- Obesity
- Gastrointestinal troubles
- Incontinence
Our dogs will experience aging and unfortunately there is no way to avoid it. But just because a dog is a senior, doesn’t mean they can’t have a quality life!
Creating a Quality Senior Life
While aging can’t be cured, we can help diminish its effects. If you currently have an adult or senior dog, you can start a healthy lifestyle now! Age-appropriate exercise can stave off obesity, a healthy diet can keep a heart healthy, and mental enrichment can help their brains stay sharp.
Another way to provide their bodies and minds with assistance is by adding a dog supplement to their diet. Due to deteriorating body functions, including the immune system, dog supplements can provide additional nutrients to support them as they age.
Supplements for Senior Dogs
Including a multi-vitamin into a senior dog’s diet can ensure that they are receiving the appropriate nutrients. As your dog ages, their diet may change based on their needs. A multi-vitamin will cover all your bases nutritionally as their diet changes.
There are also more specialized dog supplements for senior dogs:
- Try adding a joint supplement to keep their bodies moving smoothly and comfortably.
- A probiotic will help balance their gut and provide immunity assistance.
- Omega-3’s provide joint and immunity support, as well as having anti-inflammatory properties
- Calming supplements might not be an obvious choice, but as our dog’s age, dementia, blindness, and hearing loss can occur which can cause some anxiety and stress for our senior dogs.
Veterinarian Support
When your dog ages, a lot of change will happen. Part of creating a healthy life for your senior dog will be regular visits to the veterinarian. These professionals can help guide you through senior life by answering questions and giving you medical information.
Talk to your veterinarian about adding dog supplements to your senior dog’s diet. By partnering with your vet, you will be able to help your dog stay healthy and happy.
A Long, Happy Life
As our dog’s age, it can be a difficult time that involves extra care and maybe more than a little grief. But senior life doesn’t have to be a time of hopelessness for you or your dog.
Senior dogs can lead a healthy, enriched life into their old age. Providing your dog with the proper veterinary care, appropriate mental and physical exercise, and a healthy diet, including dog supplements, will ensure that your dog feels comfortable and happy in their senior years.
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