Oftentimes, our older fur babies have different needs than our younger ones. They may have different food or exercise requirements, their sleep patterns may change, and they may have medical issues that need to be cared for. And throughout it all, we still love them.
Veterinarian Dr. Adam Christman always shares great advice when it comes to our canine friends. In this video that he posted on Friday, October 4th, he shares some tips about caring for senior dogs that many people don’t even think about. Watch on to hear his helpful tips and suggestions in making our old friends comfortable.
Commenters were so appreciative of Dr. Christman’s advice about exercise and enrichment activities for their senior dogs. @JollyPets shared, “Enrichment is so important throughout a pup’s entire life! Love this!” @deborahphillips484 said, “Thank you for this one, just adopted 10- and 12-year-old Doxies…these suggestions are just what we needed!!!” @Andrea made me laugh when she said, “Great info!! Those glutes!”
Related: 10 Fantastic Reasons To Adopt an Older Dog for Senior Dog Week
At What Age Are Dogs Considered Seniors?
Just as us humans do, as dogs age, they slow down and mellow out. Puppies are cute but they’re a lot of work which to me means that there’s something so special about a senior dog. They have an air of wisdom about them and they’re so gentle. You realize as they start getting older that they won’t be around forever, and it makes you want to cherish the time that you know you have left with them.
Commenter @Tramaine Lewis asked, “When are dogs considered seniors? I have a Chihuahua that will be 9 this month but she is so active and doesn’t seem or look old.”
The term ‘senior dog’ gets thrown around a lot, but when does a dog actually become a senior? Interestingly enough, it actually depends on your pooch’s weight. Dogs weighing 15 pounds or less become seniors at 11 years of age. Dogs weighing between 16 and 50 pounds are seniors at 9 years of age. Dogs weighing between 51 and 80 pounds are seniors at 8 years of age, and dogs weighing more than 80 pounds become seniors at 6 years of age. In short, the more they weigh the shorter their lifespans.
Dogster shared this helpful chart about how long dogs live on average, also based on their size:
For some pet pawrents, nothing changes as their dog gets older. They may notice their pup isn’t as active as they once were or that they eat less and sleep more. It’s important once your dog hits their senior years that you stay on top of routine wellness checks and bloodwork, allowing you to monitor for health-related issues that may be treatable. Talk to your vet if you have any concerns about their health or any pain they may experience. Keep an eye on them during their senior years because they’ll need you even more the older that they get!
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