How To Care For Your Older, Senior Dog
Thanks to modern veterinary care and scientifically formulated natural dog food for senior dogs, it’s not unlikely your dog could live to be 15 years or older. A breeder, vet or pet shop manager can tell you the typical lifespan of your particular breed, but in general, smaller breeds live longer than larger ones. With good medical attention, a sound, nutritious diet and plenty of TLC, your dog can expect many great years with your family.
5 Tips to Help Your Senior Dog Remain Healthy and Vibrant
Dogs, cats and people age remarkably alike
As we age, we all become less active and lose muscle strength and bone mass. Our digestive processes slow down, taste buds become less sensitive, skin becomes dry and flaky, feelings of stiffness may creep into the joints. Give your older dog that little extra attention and loving care.
What to watch for in your senior dogs
To begin with, watch your older dog’s weight. Excessive weight puts undue stress on a dog’s heart, skeleton and other vital organs. If your dog exceeds his recommended weight, substitute MAX® Weight Control, NATURAL CHOICE® Lite, NATURAL CHOICE® Large Breed Weight Management or ULTRA™ Weight Management dog food for a portion of his daily diet to reduce calories. And remember: No table scraps!
Visit the vet at least yearly
As your dog enters middle age — around 5 to 8, depending on the breed (or mix of breeds) — make sure he gets regular vet check-ups. The slightest health issue can become a major one if the pet is older.
Make your games less strenuous
Dogs still love to play, but their hips and joints may suffer from arthritis (especially in certain breeds) and they may tire more easily. Keep an eye on their activity level; they’ll usually stop playing when they’re tired.
Adjust your dog’s food for his life stage
At this point in your dog’s life, adjust his diet so it’s 100% MAX® Senior, ULTRA™ Senior or NATURAL CHOICE® Senior dog food to maximize his overall health and well-being. If he ever has trouble chewing, report it to your vet; it could be an abscessed tooth or diseased gums. Regardless of the cause, mix the food with a bit of warm water to make it softer and easy to chew.