5 Dog Care Tips To Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy

Just like people, dogs eventually grow old and slow down. However, that does not necessarily mean that the end is near for them. If you have a senior dog and take care of it properly, there is a good chance it will live longer. 

Here are a few tips to keep your senior dog healthy.

Switch Your Dog's Food

Once your dog reaches its golden years, it will have different nutritional needs than when it was younger. Since senior dogs have slower metabolisms, they will need lower-calorie food to prevent obesity. Constipation is also more common among older dogs, so look for dog foods that contain a good amount of fiber.

If you are having trouble choosing food for your senior dog, you should talk to your veterinarian.

Do Not Stop Taking Your Dog for Walks

Some people stop taking their senior dogs for walks because they think they will get tired easily. While your dog may not be able to go on very long walks anymore, short, regular walks are still important. Exercise will keep your dog's energy levels up and reduce joint pain. 

Learn to Recognize When Something Is Wrong

Unfortunately, your dog can't tell you when it is not feeling well. It is up to you to pay attention to signs of discomfort in your senior dog. If your pooch is coughing frequently, limping, eating less frequently, or urinating more frequently, you should make an appointment with a veterinarian right away.

Schedule More Frequent Veterinary Checkups

Most younger dogs only require annual veterinary checkups. However, if you have a senior dog at home, it is a good idea to take it for checkups twice a year. A veterinarian will check your pooch for signs of disease that you may have missed and recommend the appropriate treatments.

Continue to Care for Your Dog's Teeth

Brushing your dog's teeth regularly can be a pain, but it is necessary. Senior dogs have a higher chance of gum disease and other dental conditions than their younger counterparts. These conditions worsen over time and can cause your dog great discomfort. If your dog's gums are red or swollen, you should contact your veterinarian soon.

If you follow these helpful dog care tips, you can keep your senior dog in good shape. If it has been a while since your dog's last veterinary checkup, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Check out this site http://www.murrellsinletvethospital.com or similar sites for more information.