Aged dogs that are happy and comfortable are a beautiful sight. It means that someone has done an excellent job of taking care of your dog and has made his life worth living; says very good things about the dog owner.

Arthritis in dogs is common as they age, they suffer from the same drawbacks as elderly humans: their joints stiffen, energy levels drop, their hearing decreases, and eyesight becomes less acute. Canine incontinence can also be a problem in older dogs. Fortunately, a dog’s sense of smell seems to be more resistant to the changes of aging.

There are many products in the world today to make your aging dog more comfortable.

Caring for older dogs

An old dog appreciates a warm and comfortable bed. An orthopedic bed is a good option, they provide maximum support and are specifically made to cushion the joints and bones. For arthritic dogs, this is ideal and they are available in various styles. For added comfort, consider a heated dog bed, bed warmer, or heated blanket for your aging best friend. The combination of a supportive bed and warmth will have a very therapeutic effect on your dog. Place the bed in an area free from drafts.

Choose food carefully for an elderly dog. Older dogs tend to gain weight due to reduced activity and burn calories less efficiently. They do better with fewer calories because they use less energy. But don’t cut down on the amount of food for your aging dog; just choose low calorie foods. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations on diet and a vitamin / mineral regimen based on your dog’s health. It can make a difference in your energy level. Make sure your older dog has plenty of water at all times. Older dogs can become dehydrated more easily than younger ones.

Exercise It’s important, but don’t overload your best friend. Let him smell the flowers or the “fire hydrant”. Short walks several times a day, rather than a long one, can be a good idea.

Regular reviews They are a must for older dogs. In addition to annual vaccinations and medical checkups, pay special attention to dental care. You are likely to lose some teeth and develop bad breath. Keep your teeth clean and free of plaque buildup and have your teeth checked routinely. This will decrease the chance that you will develop serious problems, such as heart disease resulting from tooth decay or gum disease.

Incontinence sometimes it is a problem for old dogs. The causes are many. Do not scold him for something that is not his fault. Consult your vet, it can be treatable. A temporary way to deal with urination caused by incontinence is to use dog diapers and training pads to remove those masses at home. Dog diapers are available in various sizes and styles designed for both male and female dogs. Training pads can be placed under your dog to protect the carpet, furniture, and your bed.

Finally, nice arrangement for your older dog it is useful. Brush daily to keep the coat healthy and to uncover problems like dry skin, sores, body odor, fleas, and ticks. Check your dog’s ears for odors or discharge from infection.

Genetics play apart. Generally speaking; small dogs (20 pounds) live longer and show no signs of aging until around 12 years of age. While with medium-sized dogs (20 – 50 pounds), the effects of aging will be seen around 10 years. For the larger breeds (90 pounds and over), aging usually begins to show around 8 years of age. There are exceptions to this, of course. With advances in geriatric veterinary care, good nutrition, and excellent care for aging dogs, the aging process can slow down.