Looking after a mature dog: Essential care tips

Dogs are considered mature or senior from around seven years of age, although some giant breeds may be classed as mature as early as five years old. As your dog moves into this later stage of life, their care needs evolve. Proper nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and veterinary care can help ensure they enjoy a long, comfortable, and happy older age. Here are essential tips for looking after your mature dog responsibly and compassionately.

1. Tailored Feeding and Nutrition for Mature Dogs

Mature dogs have changing nutritional needs aligned with reduced activity levels and altered metabolism. Consider feeding a high-quality, complete diet formulated specifically for senior dogs. These diets often have lower protein and calorie content with increased fibre to aid digestion and reduce the risk of obesity, a common issue in older dogs. Your dog’s appetite may decrease due to diminished senses of smell and taste or dental problems, so make meals palatable and easily digestible.

2. Vitamins and Supplements to Support Healthy Aging

To help your dog age gracefully, discuss with your vet the option of appropriate supplements such as cod liver oil for vitamin D, yeast for B vitamins, or calcium for bone strength. Supplements should complement a balanced diet and be part of a vet-approved plan tailored to your dog’s specific health status.

3. Managing Muscles, Joints, and Mobility

Expect a gradual reduction in your dog’s activity as they age, with common issues such as joint stiffness and arthritis affecting their comfort and mobility, particularly around the neck, spine, and legs. While arthritis cannot be cured, your vet can recommend treatments including joint supplements (like glucosamine and chondroitin) and medications to manage pain and improve quality of life. Provide gentle, shorter walks and avoid pushing your dog beyond their comfort. Be alert for muscle atrophy away from normal age-related areas, which could indicate other health problems needing veterinary attention.

4. Supporting Eyesight and Hearing in Senior Dogs

Older dogs may experience some decline in sensory abilities. Hearing loss due to ageing is common and usually requires accommodating your dog’s awareness rather than treatment. Eye changes such as lenticular sclerosis cause a cloudy appearance but generally do not affect vision. However, cataracts can develop, leading to vision impairment and requiring veterinary intervention. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor and manage these changes.

5. Importance of Dental Care for Older Dogs

Dental health is crucial throughout a dog’s life but especially in later years. Bad breath, chewing difficulties, or bleeding gums are signs of dental disease and pain that should never be dismissed as a normal part of ageing. Implement a dental hygiene routine early in life with tooth brushing and enzymatic toothpaste designed for dogs. Regular professional teeth cleaning under anaesthetic may be necessary for older dogs to prevent pain, infection, and further health problems.

6. Creating a Comfortable Home Environment

Ensure your mature dog’s living space is warm, quiet, and free from draughts. Orthopaedic beds can provide extra comfort for aching joints. Use ramps for stairs or access to furniture and cars to reduce strain. Non-slip mats can prevent falls on slippery floors. Maintaining a supportive and safe environment allows your dog to rest well and move around with confidence.

7. Gentle Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Regular mild exercise helps maintain healthy joints and prevents obesity. Adapt walks to your dog’s stamina and offer interactive toys or gentle play to keep their mind sharp. Mental enrichment is vital for senior dogs’ wellbeing and helps prevent boredom and anxiety.

8. Regular Veterinary Care and Health Monitoring

Routine veterinary check-ups for senior dogs are essential to detect health issues early, such as hypothyroidism, kidney problems, or cancers more prevalent in older dogs. Monitoring for changes in behaviour, appetite, mobility, or toileting habits provides important clues to your dog’s health. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

9. Insurance Considerations for Older Dogs

Insurance for mature dogs can be more expensive or more limited in coverage compared to younger dogs. Carefully review policies to ensure lifetime or adequate coverage for age-related conditions, as some insurers may restrict payouts after a certain age or limit treatment funding. Your vet can provide guidance on the best insurance options to support your dog’s healthcare needs throughout their senior years.

By adapting your care approach sensitively and proactively, you can make your mature dog’s golden years comfortable, healthier, and more enjoyable. Prioritise their nutrition, mobility, comfort, and regular vet visits to support a fulfilling senior life.

For more information about finding a dog or adopting, consider finding puppies responsibly through reputable sources or German Shepherd breeders offering lifelong care support.