Any tips beyond the common sense stuff for aging dogs?

Question

Hi. I have a lab and a pug who are both 10. Both are in good health, but I'm just really starting to notice that they are getting on in years. I know about senior food, regular checkups, soft beeding, and keeping active. Anybody have any other tips from experience? they are my best friends, and I want to do what's best for them. Thanks!

Answer 1

I've had old dogs in the past and have 2 that are getting up there now. You need to make sure they get all the exercise they can comfortably handle - it's really important for their heart health. Also, when older, they tend to get cold easier so watch that. You should also be supplementing both of them with glucosamine condroitin for their joint health. As part of their regular check-ups, does your vet do the senior blood work? That's a good idea because it catches problems like kidneys not working early on when they can be easily treated.

Using common sense, which you're doing, is the best thing you can do for them. If their eyesight isn't as sharp as it used to be, it helps them to leave lights on for them at night, especially if they have to do stairs.

Answer 2

It sounds like you are doing the right things. It's so hard to watch them slow down and not come when called because they cannot hear you. I was able to get in the house and up the steps and watch my "guard dog" sleeping with my husband the other day. She used to hear me pull in. Anyway, I have had some good luck with a medication called Deramax. She is arthritic and has some sore days. The Deramax seems to help with the pain. Also, frequent rubs and brushings are good for them because it helps with muscle fatigue/pain and you can find any new bumps that may appear. Enjoy your pups! They don't live long enough!

Answer 3

Glucosamine Chondroitrin. It's an arthritic med that helps slow down the aging process on the joints. I started using it on my lab about 2 yrs ago when he turned 7. He seemed a little slower & the meds helped immensly. I upped the dose this winter as he was slowing down a little, he responded well. Purina pro plan's senior dog food actually has this ingredient in the food itself so I started feeding him that. I love my big ol goofy lab too !!!!

Answer 4

Like everyone else said the Glucosamine.

AND if your dogs get to the point where their bladders leak a bit, they do have medication for that also. :) It is something a lot times people don't ask about because they don't think any thing can be done. But there is help for that too.

Answer 5

I too have found myself in the same position now. I have an 11 year old Border Collie and just recently he started having trouble rising and I took him to his vet and he is now on a joint supplement for his legs along with a couple of other things. I would recommend that you discuss your dogs age concerns with your vet and see if he/she would recommend a supplement etc. The other nice item that I have just ordered for my dog is a GelPedic Bed, it is on the expensive side for a dog bed, however, I thought it was worth it. God Bless you and your pets.

Answer 6

A glucosemine chondroiten vitamin would do them wonders. It promotes the creation of snyovial fluid which does wonders for joints and arthritis. Also a very warm bed, I use grass hay in their dog houses which retains heat and is good for the bones.

Answer 7

It might depend on the personality of the dog but if you feel he doesn't get enough exersize you might want to consider a puppy but if you do make sure that they get along you might just find yourself with a new buddy

Answer 8

great advice from pritigrl, also check or call your vet to see if they have any suggestions.

Answer 9

glucosamine!