Caring for an Ageing Dog: Simple Ways to Support Your Senior Dog

Our dogs give us years of companionship, loyalty and unforgettable memories. As they grow older, they may need a little extra support to remain comfortable, confident and involved in family life.

Ageing affects every dog differently. Some senior dogs slow down gradually, while others experience changes in their mobility, appetite, hearing, eyesight or behaviour. With regular veterinary care and a few thoughtful changes around the home, you can help your older dog continue enjoying a happy and fulfilling life.

When is a dog considered senior?

There is no single age at which every dog becomes a senior. A dog’s size, breed, genetics and general health can all influence how quickly they age.

Larger dogs often show age-related changes earlier than smaller breeds. Rather than focusing only on your dog’s age, pay attention to changes in their movement, energy, behaviour and daily habits.

Common signs of ageing in dogs

Senior dogs may experience changes such as:

• sleeping more than usual;
• taking longer to stand up or lie down;
• stiffness after resting;
• difficulty using stairs or jumping;
• reduced interest in long walks;
• changes in appetite or weight;
• changes in hearing or eyesight;
• increased anxiety or confusion;
• toileting accidents inside the home; or
• changes in their coat, skin or grooming habits.

These changes should not automatically be dismissed as “just old age”. Pain, arthritis, dental disease and other health conditions can cause similar signs. Arrange a veterinary appointment whenever you notice a new or unexplained change.

1. Schedule regular veterinary check-ups

Regular health checks become especially important as your dog grows older. Your veterinarian can assess your dog’s weight, teeth, joints, heart and overall condition while looking for problems that may not yet be obvious at home.

Ask your vet how frequently your individual dog should be examined and whether any blood tests, dental care, dietary adjustments or preventative treatments are recommended.

2. Create a comfortable place to rest

Older dogs often spend more time sleeping and may find hard floors uncomfortable. Provide a supportive bed in a warm, quiet area where your dog can rest without being isolated from the family.

A senior-friendly sleeping area should be:

• easy to enter without climbing or jumping;
• supportive and appropriately sized;
• positioned away from cold draughts;
• covered with soft, washable bedding; and
• located somewhere your dog feels safe.

Some dogs benefit from having more than one bed around the home, particularly if moving between rooms or levels has become difficult.

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3. Make slippery floors easier to navigate

Polished floorboards and tiles can become challenging for a dog with stiff or painful joints. Slipping can reduce confidence and may increase the risk of injury.

Place non-slip mats or washable runners along the paths your dog uses most often, especially between their bed, food bowls, back door and favourite family areas.

Keep nails appropriately trimmed and check the fur between your dog’s paw pads, as long nails or excess fur may make it harder to maintain traction.

4. Reduce unnecessary jumping and climbing

Movements that were once easy may become uncomfortable for a senior dog. Consider whether your dog is struggling to:

• climb onto furniture;
• get in or out of the car;
• use stairs;
• step over high doorways; or
• reach their usual sleeping area.

A suitable ramp or stable set of pet steps may help in some situations. Introduce new equipment slowly and supervise your dog until they are comfortable using it.

If your dog is showing signs of pain or weakness, speak with your veterinarian before introducing a new mobility aid.

5. Keep food and water accessible

Fresh water should always be easy to reach. If your home is large or has multiple levels, consider placing water bowls in several accessible locations.

Use stable, non-slip bowls that will not move while your dog eats or drinks. Position them somewhere your dog can reach without navigating slippery floors or stairs.

Do not make major changes to your dog’s diet without veterinary advice. Senior dogs have different nutritional needs depending on their health, weight and activity level.

6. Adjust exercise without removing it

Older dogs still benefit from appropriate exercise, mental stimulation and time outdoors. However, they may find shorter and more frequent walks easier than one long outing.

Let your dog set a comfortable pace and avoid forcing them to continue when they appear tired or uncomfortable. Flat, even walking surfaces may be more manageable than steep or rough tracks.

Exercise may need to be adjusted during very hot, cold or wet weather. Your veterinarian can recommend an appropriate activity level if your dog has arthritis, heart disease or another health condition.

7. Provide gentle mental enrichment

Mental stimulation remains important throughout a dog’s life. Senior dogs can still enjoy learning, exploring and solving simple problems.

Gentle enrichment ideas include:

• slow, sniff-focused walks;
• simple food puzzles suited to their ability;
• hiding treats in easy-to-find places;
• short reward-based training sessions;
• quiet play with a favourite toy; and
• supervised time exploring the garden.

Choose activities that do not require difficult movements or cause frustration. The goal is enjoyment—not exhaustion.

8. Maintain a predictable routine

Senior dogs may feel less confident when their routine or environment changes unexpectedly. Keeping meals, walks, medication and bedtime reasonably consistent can provide reassurance.

If your dog’s hearing or eyesight is declining, avoid frequently moving furniture, beds and bowls. A small night-light may help some dogs navigate dark hallways or locate their water overnight.

9. Pay attention to behavioural changes

Changes in behaviour can sometimes be an early sign of discomfort or illness. Contact your veterinarian if your dog begins:

• pacing or appearing unsettled at night;
• becoming unusually withdrawn or irritable;
• seeming confused in familiar surroundings;
• reacting differently when touched;
• having unexpected toileting accidents; or
• losing interest in activities they previously enjoyed.

Do not punish an older dog for accidents, confusion or slower responses. They may be dealing with pain, sensory changes or an age-related health condition beyond their control.

10. Make everyday care easier

Small practical changes can make a meaningful difference to your senior dog’s daily comfort.

Consider keeping the following essentials within easy reach:

• soft, washable bedding;
• non-slip mats;
• stable food and water bowls;
• gentle grooming tools;
• absorbent towels;
• easy-access toys;
• pet-safe cleaning supplies; and
• any prescribed medication.

Choose products based on your dog’s individual needs and seek professional advice when you are unsure.

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Comfort matters at every age

Your senior dog may move more slowly than they once did, but they still want to feel safe, comfortable and close to the people they love.

Regular veterinary care, gentle activity and a supportive home environment can help your ageing dog continue enjoying the routines and moments that make them happy.

At Rove & Wag, we believe every stage of life deserves comfort, care and plenty of time together.

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This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Contact your veterinarian if you have concerns about your dog’s health, mobility or behaviour.