Your daily dose of doggy goodness!

Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!

In partnership with

Dog of the Day: Bella!

Meme of the day: The best dream job!

How do I help my senior dog stay healthy?

As dogs grow older, their needs change, and we must ensure they remain healthy, happy, and comfortable in their golden years. Just like humans, senior dogs require special care, from proper nutrition to regular veterinary checkups and gentle exercise. For example, our editor’s senior pup takes more naps than he used to and takes supplements/medication for arthritis — but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t still love to play catch or roll around with his stuffed toys.

Besides giving them all the extra love, here are some key ways to support your aging furry friend and help them enjoy their later years to the fullest.

Regular Veterinary Checkups

Senior dogs are more prone to age-related illnesses such as arthritis, diabetes, and kidney disease. Regular visits to the vet (at least once or twice a year) can help catch any health concerns early and ensure your dog receives appropriate care. Your vet may recommend blood tests, dental checkups, and joint health assessments to monitor their overall well-being.

Nutritious Diet for Aging Needs

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining a senior dog’s health. As metabolism slows down with age, it is important to feed them a well-balanced diet that supports joint health, digestion, and energy levels. Look for high-quality dog food rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids like omega-3s. Some senior dogs may also benefit from supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. Fish oil is also an excellent food topper that helps with joints — just ask our editor’s pup Puggsley!

Gentle Exercise and Mental Stimulation

While senior dogs may not be as energetic as they once were, they still need regular physical activity to keep their joints limber and prevent weight gain. Opt for gentle exercises such as leisurely walks, short play sessions, or swimming. Mental stimulation is equally important—interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and training exercises can keep their minds sharp and engaged.

Comfortable Living Environment

Older dogs can experience joint stiffness, vision loss, or cognitive decline, making their environment an important factor in their well-being. To support their joints, provide a comfortable orthopedic bed, ensure easy access to food and water, and keep their living area free of obstacles that could cause tripping or falling.

Dental Health Maintenance

Dental disease is common in senior dogs and can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. Regular teeth brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Good dental hygiene can also prevent pain, infection, and difficulty eating.

Regular Grooming and Skin Care

As dogs age, their skin becomes more sensitive, and their coat may require extra care. Brushing your senior dog regularly helps prevent matting and improves circulation. Check for lumps, bumps, or changes in their skin, as these could indicate underlying health issues that need veterinary attention.

Show Them Extra Love and Attention

Senior dogs may slow down, but their love for you never fades. Spend quality time with them, offer gentle affection, and be patient with any changes in their behavior. Providing reassurance and a stable routine can help reduce anxiety and make them feel secure and loved.

Final Thoughts

Caring for a senior dog is a deeply rewarding experience. With the right care, nutrition, and attention, your furry companion can continue to enjoy life comfortably and happily. By understanding their needs and making adjustments to their routine, you can ensure their golden years are filled with love, warmth, and good health.

Your Legacy is too Important to Leave to Chance

Trust & Will makes estate planning simple, fast, and affordable. In just a few easy steps, create a legally valid, state-specific will, trust, or healthcare directive from the comfort of your home. Start now for just $199 and gain peace of mind knowing your legacy is protected.

Family photo of the day: Barbie

We want to feature your pup!

We want to share your pup with our pack. Email us your favorite doggy pic or video with your pup’s name, and we'll try to feature it as a family photo in one of our upcoming newsletters or on our Facebook page.

Share our newsletter with your friends!

We’ll donate on your behalf!

🐶 Refer 10 people: we will donate a box of treats to an animal rescue 🐶

🐕️ Refer 50 people: we will donate a bag of dog food to an animal rescue 🐕️

🛏️ Refer 100 people: we will donate a dog bed to an animal rescue 🛏️

You currently have 0 referrals, only 2 away from receiving Dog Safety Guide.

Sources:

Dog of the day: IG buddy_bella_birdie

Meme of the day: IG officedogs