The bond we share with our dogs is one of life’s greatest joys, but one of the hardest parts of being a pet owner is watching them grow older. From joint care to anxiety, here are a handful of things your older canine companion wants you to know…
Most dogs enter their senior years around the age of seven, and just like us, ageing can bring changes to their physical and mental health. As they start to slow down, they can't always tell us what they need – but that doesn’t mean we can’t help them feel as comfortable and loved as ever.
To help you tune into your senior dog's needs a little better, here are a few things they might be trying to tell you…
1. ‘I’m feeling more anxious’
It’s common for a senior dog to become more sensitive or anxious about their surroundings. This can show up in physical signs like panting, licking, shaking or pacing, and they may also experience changes in appetite or sleep. Some older dogs may become clingy, restless or even irritable, while others might be easily startled by things that never used to faze them, like new visitors or slight changes in routine.
While mild increases in anxiety can be a natural part of ageing, it is tough to watch your pet struggling to settle as usual. Keeping walks shorter but more frequent throughout the day can help ease their restlessness, while maintaining a predictable routine in the morning and evening can provide a calming sense of structure.
2. ‘I might be losing my sight and hearing’
As dogs age, their senses may start to fade, and you might notice them bumping into furniture, hesitating before jumping from heights or not responding to familiar commands.
To help them navigate these new changes, try keeping your home free from clutter and minimise any startling noises or movements. You can gently catch their attention by moving into their line of sight. Adding hand signals to your training routine can be especially helpful for dogs with hearing loss, as it offers a visual cue when they can no longer pick up on sounds like clicks or whistles.
3. ‘I can’t walk as far as I used to’
One of the earliest signs of canine ageing that owners tend to notice is a dog slowing down on daily walks. While senior dogs still love (and absolutely need) time outdoors, they can tire more quickly or need extra breaks to rest.
During your outings, it’s important to pay attention to your dog’s cues and adjust your pace or distance to match their energy. Shorter, more frequent walks can be ideal for a senior dog, allowing them to explore without feeling too worn out. Sometimes, a gentle ‘sniffari’ around the block a few times a day can be more manageable for them than a long trek through the park.
4. ‘I feel the cold more than I used to’
Senior dogs are more sensitive to cold weather, so winter can pose extra challenges for their health and comfort. You might notice your pet shivering, seeking out the warmest spots in the house or curling up on the sofa with you more often.
Investing in a cosy, insulated coat for walks can help to keep them toasty, while upgrading to a fleecy senior dog bed with warm blankets and extra pillows can provide a perfect spot for them to snuggle up indoors. Keep in mind that short-hair breeds or those with thin coats will be more susceptible to cold, as will dogs with chronic health conditions like arthritis and cancer.
5. ‘I may need special supplements’
As dogs age, they could benefit from taking senior dog supplements. However, all dogs on a complete and balanced senior diet, appropriate to their breed and age technically don’t need supplements unless they have been advised by a vet to support some specific issue.
Common senior dog supplements include omega-3 fish oil, glucosamine and chondroitin to support supple joints, probiotics for digestion, and antioxidants like vitamin C and E to support their immune system.
A quick chat with your vet can help you find the right supplements for your dog's needs, whether that’s mobility support or just an extra wellness boost. If you have dog insurance with Petplan, you can also log into your My Petplan account and chat with a pet health expert to get guidance on keeping your senior dog feeling their best.
6. ‘I might need extra support’
Even if your pet has had a relatively smooth ride with their health over the years, age can bring on new and unexpected issues.
For many owners, the sudden need for vet care can result in expensive bills, especially if pet insurance for a senior dog hasn't been arranged. Taking steps to ensure your cover meets your needs and is up to date means you can prioritise your dog's wellbeing without financial stress looming over you.
Regular vet check-ups become even more important as dogs age. These visits can help catch potential health issues before they escalate, ensuring your dog receives the care they need to thrive throughout their golden years.
Has your senior dog’s health changed over the years? Head over to Petplan’s Facebook page to share your tips and advice with other owners.