Caring for the older dog

If you have a dog, you'll know only too well just how much joy and happiness they bring to your family home. And so it's only right that you'll want to do the absolute best for your furry friend through each stage of his life from his time as a playful puppy to his years as a mature and older dog. Our family Labrador was every bit a part of our family. He was very clever, completely loopy and wonderfully devoted to us. As he became an older dog we were mindful that there were certain things we could do to enhance his quality of life, providing him with both comfort and support, whilst also maintaining his health and well being. 

Our old Labrodor Jake.

Comfort

Like people, older dogs will really appreciate being comfortable and having a bed to rest and relax on. Providing them with soft and snuggly bed with a supportive mattress is a must for your dog. This will enable them to rest, sleep soundly and will also provide them with their own little 'safe space'. If your dog suffers from problems with its joints, back or muscles, an orthopaedic dog bed is the ideal solution. These beds help to ensure your dog is supported whilst sleeping and resting, reducing pressure on their joints and spine as well as promoting a correct sleep position.

Older dogs can suffer from pain and discomfort. Many breeds have predispositions to particular ailments such as arthritis for example and if so, you will want to ease any suffering for them. Your vet will be able to advise on the best course of treatment which may include joint tablets for dogs which will help them get that spring in their step back.

Nutrition

It's important that your dog is served nutritious food which is appropriate for his stage of life. As they get older, dogs have different nutritional needs to that of younger dogs. They will often slow down in later life, burning less calories and as a result may be prone to gaining weight. Serving your dog, high quality, easy to digest protein is the key and many dog food companies will cater for the dietary needs of older dogs. Your vet will be able to advise on the appropriate diet plan for your dog which is in keeping with his individual needs. 

Exercise

Older dogs, may slow down in later life but they still need to exercise, which helps to keep them healthy and happy. They may only manage shorter walks but getting them out the house is a wonderful treat for them. Walkies are after all, the most amazing thing in the whole world when you're a dog!!

Senses

As your dog gets older, some of his senses may be less sensitive to before. Their hearing and sight may deteriorate and so you may find you will need to make little adjustments to accommodate for this, for example, placing their bowl near to them, hel
ping to guide them towards particular things they require, or gently approaching them, as not to startle them. 

Love

A loved dog is a happy dog and your dog will benefit in so many ways from the love you give him. Dogs love contact with us; they respond to being stroked, can sense and differentiate between different tones of voices, they love praise, they love playing and they love just being with you. Simply providing them with the care and commitment that you always have done will ensure your dog lives happily for the rest of his days.

*Collaborative Post