What To Do For Your Dog as it Gets Older

As your dog gets older, you might feel at a loss for what to do for your pet. Usually people begin to notice that their dog is getting older and less spirited around the time that the dog is eight years old. You may notice that around this age it seems like your pet isn't able to run around and play with you like it used to. In addition, you might feel like you want to help your older dog, but you aren't quite sure what you can do. Here are a couple of things that you can do for your dog as it gets older:

1. Give your dog a senior diet: One of the best things to do for your dog as it gets older is feed it a dog food that is specifically made for older dogs. These types of dog food are usually labeled as being a "senior" dog food. Senior dog food diet has reduced calories, but it still provides an older dog with all of the balanced nutrients that a dog needs. Some of the best types of senior dog food diets that are available are Science Diet and Iams. NOTE: If you are feeding your dog a specialty or prescribed diet by your vet, check with your vet before switching your dog to senior dog food.
2. Keep your dog away from stairs: If your dog has arthritis or is feeble on its feet, you really want to keep your dog away from the stairs in your house as much as possible. For example, it is a good idea to install a "dog gate" across your stairways so that your dog doesn't strain its joints going up and down the stairs.
3. Buy an elevated food dish: As your dog gets older, it is a good idea to buy an elevated food dish for your dog. This is healthier for your older dog for several reasons. For one thing, your dog doesn't have to bend down very far to eat, which is better for your dog if it has arthritis. Also, it is better for your dog to eat with its head elevated.
4. Regular checkups with the vet: Another thing that you need to do for your dog when it gets older is to take your dog to the vet regularly. It is recommended that you take your dog to the vet about twice a year. This way, your vet will constantly be able to see your dog and make sure that there are not any medical conditions arising which could be a problem. In addition to these checkups with the vet, it is also a good idea to also watch for other medical problems which are common in older dogs. Loss of hair, sleep disruption, change in eating habits, trembling and change in urine color are all indications of a medical condition. Consult with your vet right away if you notice any of these symptoms in your older god.
5. Don't stop exercising: Even when your dog is getting older, it doesn't mean that you should stop exercising with your dog. Instead, don't make your walks or exercises with your dog as intensive as they used to be. However, try to keep your dog active and moving so that it can stay healthy and happy.
6. Dental care: You should also make sure that your dog gets a lot of good dental care. Not only will this help to prevent your dog from losing teeth, but also good dental care will also help to prevent gingivitis. You can take your dog to a groomer to get its teeth regularly cleaned, or you can buy a toothbrush for dogs and clean your dog's teeth at home.

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