Living With a Senior Dog: 6 Tips for When Your Puppy Grows Old Pets

Katie Sloan
6 years ago

My dog rescued me in 2006. Now, at 11 years old, he has playful moments but is definitely slowing down. This is a special time for us. You see, as much as I love him, I know that I am his everything; the main character in his life’s story. 

There are many reasons to embrace the golden years. As a puppy, my dog was destructive. Now he has manners and is housebroken. He sleeps in and is content with a quiet walk. Sadly, many owners bail on senior dogs, so here are tips some from my own experience and the experts at DogTime.com and The Senior Dogs Project:

  • See the vet. Checkups twice a year help your vet stay ahead of potential issues or discomfort.
  • Keep your dog comfortable. An orthopedic bed is easier on achy joints.
  • Pay attention to the temperature. Older dogs overheat or get cold easier.
  • Keep the routine and be flexible. Dogs crave routine. Keep the schedule, but be flexible. Our dog developed a fear of the kennel so we have a dog sitter and added in extra potty breaks.
  • Exercise is important – but don’t let your pup over-do it.
  • Spend time together. Your dog craves love, comfort and security from you. Create lasting memories. It will do your heart good too.

Learn more by visiting DogTime.com.

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Comments (6)

Kimberly Johnson
I love that my Milo is your "I'm not a cat person" cat as your sweet Riley is my "I'm not a dog person dog," Katie Sloan . No doubt Riley's loved!
yalareta
Happy national dog day in 26 august [shopping now]()
Elisa Schmitz
Our yellow Lab is 7 and still thinks she's a puppy. But I have noticed she doesn't get up the stairs as easily anymore. Thank you for this great advice, Katie Sloan ! xoxo
Ann Marie Patitucci
This is beautiful, Katie Sloan ! My German Shepard Cheyenne will be 12 in November. I love her more and more every day. <3
Denise Mantell
These are great! Thanks for sharing...my pup just turned 11 & we have started to see a lot of changes in the last year.
Donna John
Great tips. I'm adjusting to living with my senior dog. Once you come to terms with it and accept that they are in a new stage of life, it's easier for everyone. One tip I can share is using a dish drying mat for them to stand on if traction is a problem on tile or hardwood. Works great. Also bought some traction "stickers" on Amazon for her paws which surprisingly worked great.
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