By Dr. Dan Carey, Bayer Veterinarian
While many owners still lovingly refer to their dogs as “puppy” or “baby” at any age, we know each day together is another day that time progresses. As they mature and change,
how we care for senior dogs changes, too. Help support their changing activity, health and nutritional needs with tailored vitamins and supplements for older dogs.
When is a dog a senior dog?
There’s no pre-set age that determines when your dog is a senior dog, although many dogs are considered seniors when they reach the last 25% of their projected lifespan. In general, smaller dog breeds live longer than larger dog breeds, but genetics, diet, and overall care throughout your dog’s life play a role in how your dog ages. Most large and giant breeds should be managed as seniors beginning at about six years of age while medium and small breeds can use special support starting at eight. Regardless of how your dog is acting – puppy-like or not – her system is changing.
Managing health concerns with senior dog supplements
Like people, aging dogs have different needs and considerations than their younger counterparts. Along with proper nutrition, exercise and veterinary care, adding supplements may help support the well-being of your dog as he/she ages.
- Joint and mobility health
- Gastrointestinal health
- Free radical damage
- Skin and coat issues
- Organ health
- Cognitive health
Joint and mobility health
Supplements that include glucosamine, green-lipped mussel, chondroitin and omega-3 fatty acids can support the structure and function of joints in dogs as they age. This includes maintaining healthy cartilage and connective tissue as well helping to relieve occasional joint stiffness and discomfort from daily activity.
Gastrointestinal health
Aging dogs can experience sensitive or upset stomachs and may let you know through vomiting, diarrhea or gas. Using probiotic supplements daily or in times of stress (such as separation anxiety) can help maintain a healthy balance of good gut bacteria and support proper digestion and bowel health.
Free radical damage
Supplements featuring antioxidants can help reduce the damaging effects of free radicals and their buildup. Free radicals are rogue, reactive molecules created by everyday environmental stressors, poor diet and/or the aging process that directly damage the body’s cells and tissues. Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E plus minerals such as magnesium, selenium and zinc help neutralize them.
Skin and coat issues
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements may support skin health and help aging dogs address dry skin and problems from skin-related allergies.
Organ health
Aging dogs may need assistance maintaining organ health. Supplements that include Omega-3 fatty acids and/or Vitamins C, D and E can help support their brain, heart, eye, kidney and liver function.
Additional care for older dogs
Caring for a senior dog shouldn’t be intimidating. In addition to supplements, regular habits can help support your dog’s quality of life:
- Evaluate nutritional requirements and find a food that is designed for senior dogs
- Encourage regular but controlled exercise
- Maintain mental stimulation through interactions with you, other dogs, toys and their environment
- Monitor your senior dog’s dental health and breath
- Consider special accommodations such as orthopedic beds or raised feeding platforms to add comfort
- Control parasites that might be able to take advantage of an older dog’s weakened immune system
- Attend regular veterinary check-ups for preventive care, disease management and guidance
We can’t stop time, but we can help our dogs make the most of the time we have together. Continue to monitor your dog’s behaviors and look for signs of discomfort or lack of interest in favorite activities. Consult your veterinarian and develop a plan to continue to support your dog through nutritional supplements, environmental changes and wellness activities.
Click HERE to learn more about caring for your canine pal.