The older your dog gets, the more challenges they will face just like people. As they age, you will want to spend as much time with them as possible. The bond that you have with your dog is just as important to them as it is to you. Helping your dog feel younger starts with this special bond, but there are other things you can do as well.
When Does a Get Old?
The old adage that a dog ages seven years for every one year for a human is relatively true, but there are exceptions. Larger breeds that weigh over ninety pounds tend to live to be eight years old. While smaller dogs that weigh less than twenty pounds live on average eleven years. This is not always true as there are many other considerations, but the smaller your dog, the longer they will live.
The signs that your dog is aging include but is not limited to the following.
- Arthritis: Pain in the joints
- Cognitive Issues
- Loss of Vision
- Mouth Issues: Sores, tooth and gum problems, and the like
- Unusual Weight Gain or Loss
There is also the gradual slowing down, playing less, and generally being more content to rest than exercise. The good news is that there are steps you can take to help revitalize your dog.
You can start by feeding them dog food that his high-quality, nutritious, and provides the energy they need to get through the day. For older dogs, there are special blends of dog food that can help provide the nutrition and energy needed to put more bounce in their step. But it does not stop there as there are several other methods available.
Exercise
A daily walk of 20 – 30 minutes offers plenty of exercise for your dog and you. For dogs, getting out of the house or backyard opens up a world of wonder for them. By walking, they can get the proper exercise needed to stay in shape. The same is true for humans as well, so keep that in mind when walking your dog three to five times a week.
Oral Care
You should schedule checkups for your pooch regularly. This will help spot oral issues faster if they develop. Until then, you can check for any problems yourself and feed your dog food and snacks that help clean their teeth. If your dog has trouble chewing, then they may have an issue with their teeth that can be treated by the vet.
Teach New Tricks
Yes, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Learning is part of growing which means keeping the brain healthy. Simple games such as hide-and-seek or just puzzles that involve their food will help keep their brains active.
Of course, love is the best way to keep your dog young and happy. You can also address any specific needs that they have, such as ramps or steps that make it easier for them to get around. But if you show affection to your dog just like you did when they were younger, then they will stay younger and happier for the rest of their lives.
