Should You Treat Your Dog Differently When They Get Old?

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Dogs are amazing creatures. So much so that many often wonder what we did to deserve them! They are loyal, and love us unconditionally no matter what. Anybody with a heart will make sure that they give their dog the attention, exercise, and nourishment that they need. But should you treat your dog differently when they get old?

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Changing Their Food

As your dog ages, you may need to change their food to suit their later years. This is because they may not be able to handle food that is as rich as before. Plus, you must remember that although their appetites will usually be the same, they won’t be burning calories as easily. You should probably limit the amount of treats you give them because of this.

Changing Their Exercise Routine

Your dog’s exercise routine may need to change depending on how much energy they have and how mobile they are. Although they definitely still need to get out, and at times may remind you of the pup they once were, making these changes is important for their overall health. It might be better to take them on a couple of shorter walks per day, rather than one long one. You may also need to change your route, depending on how difficult they find it.

Being Sensitive To Sight And Hearing Loss

Some dogs start to experience sight and hearing loss, and many owners don’t realize until it has become pretty severe. A professional like VPP Kotara would recommend  that you are sensitive to this. If they are ignoring you, it’s likely because they don’t hear you. If they jump or get aggressive when you or a stranger touches them, they probably didn’t hear the approach. They might also get anxious because they don’t recognise things outside of the home that they used to.

Helping To Keep Your Dog Warm

Older dogs struggle to regulate their temperature as well as younger dogs. This means you need to make sure they are a nice warm temperature. You may want to put extra blankets and things in their bed, or use a warm (never hot) heating pad beneath their bed. When you go out, depending on just how cold it is, it may also be wise to put a sweater on them.

Grooming Your Dog

Grooming your dog should be done with a little extra care and effort too. They may need more regular nail clippings, as it’s likely they won’t be getting filed naturally as much as before. Brushing them regularly, and being careful with their sensitive skin is also a must.

Dogs reach senior age when they get to around 7. Depending on the size, it may take them a little longer to start showing true signs of aging. Your dog definitely needs a little more TLC when they get older, so that they can enjoy their final years. Make sure you use the tips in this guide, and make a vet appointment if you’re unsure of something!

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