As dogs get older, it’s likely they’ll start slowing down and they may need some extra attention. Here’s how you can help your pet adjust around the house.
As our dogs reach old age, it’s natural for them to slow down a bit and need a little extra care and consideration at home.
Whether your dog is suffering from common age-related health conditions such as deafness or sight loss, or they’re less agile and energetic than they used to be, there are plenty of ways to adapt their environment to keep them safe and comfortable.
Older dogs are more prone to arthritis and other mobility problems, so may find it harder to walk, climb and jump around.
A dog ramp or steps could help them reach raised areas, such as their favourite sofa or armchair, or navigate small sets of steps around the house. A portable ramp or steps can also be useful for getting your senior dog in and out of the car safely.
Dog ramps, however, are rarely a practical option for a full flight of steps. If your senior dog struggles to climb stairs, it may be best to fit gates to stop them from attempting it unaided. Instead, make sure they have everything they need – including a cosy, quiet place to relax – on one floor.
If your ageing dog is less steady on their feet these days and tends to slip on smooth surfaced floors such as wood and tiles, consider adding more rugs or laying out yoga mats to create routes for them to get around more easily.
Older dogs may drag their feet more, which can cause damage to their paws. Your vet may recommend orthopaedic or nonslip dog boots to provide extra protection and cushioning for elderly, arthritic or disabled dogs.
Some dogs with neck problems or arthritis may find it difficult to lower their heads to eat and drink. If that sounds like your dog, try placing their food and water bowls on a stand or box, or buy raised dog bowls designed for higher feeding. But make sure your dog doesn’t need to stretch upwards to reach their food, which can also cause discomfort – shoulder height or a little lower is best.
Old bones are more prone to aches and pains, so ensure your senior dog has a suitable bed that’s well-padded, easy for them to access and has enough space for them to stretch their legs.
Consider a memory foam mattress or orthopaedic dog bed that’s designed to support their weight evenly, helping reduce pressure points that can lead to sores.
Dogs can become more sensitive to the cold as they age, whether that’s because they’re running around less or because low temperatures can exacerbate arthritic pain.
Make sure their sleeping areas are protected from draughts, provide extra blankets or turn up the heating slightly if they’re getting shivery. Also, consider a dog coat for when they’re outdoors.
A dog heat pad or heated dog bed can provide extra warmth and help ease joint and muscle pain in senior dogs. But beware of using heat pads or blankets designed for humans, which can often be too hot for our pets.
There are many reasons why senior dogs may have more toileting accidents, from physical incontinence to the confusion caused by canine dementia. Less mobile older dogs may simply be unable to reach their usual toilet area in time.
If your dog is peeing or pooping in inappropriate places, never shout or tell them off – this will only cause them further stress. Offer them more frequent opportunities to relieve themselves outside, talk to your vet about managing the issue and consider dog nappies if it’s becoming a habit.
Even if your senior dog’s hearing, sight or energy is failing, they still need stimulation and quality time with you.
Create a dog-friendly home environment by providing toys and activities that suit their abilities – such as scent-based games and squeaky toys for vision-impaired dogs.
If your dog is going blind, consider putting corner protectors or padding on sharp-edged furniture, installing stair gates, tidying away cables and clutter, and creating an obstacle-free safe space for relaxing and playtimes.
If your dog is going deaf, be considerate at home and try not to sneak up on them – approach them from the front, stomp on the floor to create a vibration or turn on lights to signal your presence. Dogs who are losing their hearing or vision can become disorientated in the dark, having fewer senses to rely on, so may benefit from a night light for navigation.
If your senior dog is becoming less active, you may prefer to keep their food, water and toys within easy reach of their favourite snoozing spots. But try to avoid a radical reorganisation of an older dog’s living space unless it’s unavoidable. Our ageing dogs are creatures of habit and moving things around can confuse them, particularly in animals with sight loss or canine dementia.
Instead of simply moving their water bowl to a more accessible spot, keep the original in the same place and place an extra water bowl nearer their bed, at least until your dog has become used to drinking in the new location. If you do need to make a layout change, such as introducing new furniture, guide your dog around the new set-up a few times until they’ve got the hang of it.
As always, if you’ve noticed worrying physical or behavioural changes in an older dog or you’re concerned that they’re in pain, do consult your vet, who can address any underlying health causes.
By insuring your canine with Petplan dog insurance, you can be sure your pet is looked after throughout their senior years.