Caring for Your Senior Dog: Tips for Compassionate Care
Tending to a senior dog is one of the most compassionate things a person can do. While most people prefer to rescue or adopt puppies, senior dogs deserve the same level of care, comfort, and love as their younger companions.
If you’re unsure of how to navigate care for your senior dog, we’re here to help. Learn how to provide adequate, loving care for your aging companion in this post.
Senior Dog Food & Other Tips for Senior Care
One of the most significant ways to care for a senior dog is by feeding them age-appropriate dog food. Senior dogs require more vitamins and minerals and have a slower metabolism, requiring foods with more protein and immune support.
High-quality dog food brands usually offer formulas specifically for senior dogs. Choose brands with incredible protein sources, whole grains, and nutrient-rich foods. Here at Get Joy, we offer a wide range of top-of-the-line treats and meals you'll want to take advantage of for your senior companion.
Here are other tips to properly care for your precious senior companion:
Incorporate a Nutritious Diet
Providing a healthy, well-balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, proteins, and whole grains for your senior doggo will ensure they get the nutrients they need to age gracefully. Diets designed specifically for aging dogs are recommended because they help maintain a healthy weight and boost energy levels.
Encourage Rest
Senior dogs should still get 30 minutes of exercise daily, but it should be low-impact, like short walks and leisurely playtime. Mental stimulation is important at any age, so you can work with your dog on learning new tricks to exercise his brain and build confidence.
Your aging canine may want to sleep or relax more than younger dogs do, and that’s perfectly OK! Let him snooze as long as he needs — he’s earned it. Make sure he has a cozy space to nap and rest in your home where he’s comfortable and content.
Groom Regularly
Aging dogs can experience dry, flaky skin, so be sure to stay up to date on your dog’s grooming schedule. Be sure to brush him regularly to prevent mats in his fur. Use gentle shampoos that soothe skin and help to boost their coat shine.
Shower Them with Love
Above all else, make sure your senior dog knows how much you love him and value him as a family member. Give him lots of cuddles, healthy treats, and affection whenever you can.
Why You Should Adopt Senior Dogs
If you want to add a senior dog to your family, you won’t be disappointed! Older dogs (between ages 7 and 9) are typically housebroken, well-behaved, and fairly easy to introduce to family members and other pets.
Aging pups are usually more laid back and will go with the flow, blending into your existing family dynamic with ease.
Give Your Senior Dog the Care They Deserve
Caring for senior dogs is all about providing a healthy lifestyle and extra love and attention. Your dog will age gracefully with regular vet visits, exercise, care, and a healthy diet. The better care you provide, the more memories and special times you’ll enjoy with your senior dog.
The quality of the food that you purchase for your senior dog matters for their overall health. Get Joy offers wholesome meal plans that are made from high-quality ingredients so that you can opt for a well-balanced and healthy diet for your dog. Explore our products today!
