Senior Dog Care Guide

Arthritis & Joint Issues

Signs: Stiffness, difficulty getting up, reluctance to climb stairs or jump

Management: Joint supplements, pain medication, gentle exercise, orthopedic bedding

Kidney Disease

Signs: Increased thirst and urination, weight loss, poor appetite

Management: Special diet, medications, regular blood tests, hydration support

Cognitive Dysfunction

Signs: Confusion, disrupted sleep, house soiling, reduced interaction

Management: Mental stimulation, routine consistency, medications, supplements

Heart Disease

Signs: Coughing, difficulty breathing, reduced stamina, fainting

Management: Medications, controlled exercise, low-sodium diet, monitoring

Dental Disease

Signs: Bad breath, difficulty eating, drooling, tooth loss

Management: Professional cleaning, extractions if needed, soft food

Cancer

Signs: Lumps, weight loss, lethargy, bleeding, poor healing

Management: Veterinary consultation, surgery, chemotherapy, palliative care

Senior-Specific Formula

Switch to food designed for senior dogs with adjusted protein, fat, and calories

Joint Support

Look for foods with glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids

Easier to Digest

Smaller, more frequent meals may be easier on aging digestive systems

Weight Management

Reduce calories if activity decreases to prevent obesity and joint strain

Gentle Walks

Multiple short walks daily

• Maintains mobility without overexertion
• Watch for signs of fatigue or discomfort

Swimming

1-2 times per week

• Low-impact exercise excellent for arthritic dogs
• Supervised sessions in warm water

Mental Stimulation

Daily

• Helps prevent cognitive decline
• Puzzle toys, gentle training, new experiences

Gentle Play

Short sessions daily

• Maintains engagement and happiness
• Avoid high-impact activities like jumping