No one is really prepared to see their dog getting older, are they? Since there's no stopping time and the average dog's life expectancy is between 10 and 13 years, it doesn't take long for the signs of canine old age to become more evident: whitish fur, slower walking, loss of teeth, decreased hearing....

At this stage of a dog's life, they deserve even more attention and care. Here are some special care tips for senior dogs that will help keep them healthy and ensure they feel loved as a puppy.

How old does a dog get?

On average, a dog aged 7 is old, but this milestone can vary according to the size of the animal. Small breeds weighing up to 10kg, such as the Pinscher and the Toy Poodle, pass into old age at 7 or 8 years. The larger they are, the earlier old age arrives. Large dogs can be considered old from the age of 5. This is the case for breeds such as the Great Dane or even a Belgian Shepherd.

Older dogs play too - find out how to entertain them at this stage

In old age, dogs become slower and less active, a consequence of the degeneration of their tissues and nervous system. Your puppy may not have the same disposition as before, but he still needs to move his body regularly. Therefore, walking your dog is a habit that cannot be neglected. This is even one of the secrets to their longevity.pets: when he feels happy, he is healthier!

Take short walks early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is not too hot. Allow yourself time to walk slowly, letting your elderly dog sniff around a lot. This way, his hunting instinct stays active. Walking also helps keep your pet's muscles in shape, as well as warding off the chances of him developing canine obesity. But beware: if you notice that your dog isvery tired, breathing heavily and salivating excessively, do not push the limits and stop the walk immediately. Don't forget to bring water for the walk!

Dog games are also super important in the old age of the species. Every dog has a favorite game, and it does not cease to be a source of fun when they get older! If he always liked to catch the ball, for example, you can make the game more interesting by choosing a ball with a dispenser for the food. Instead of running to get the toy - activity thatcan tire him out quickly - the dog will be able to spend time trying to catch the food grains.

Don't forget the mental exercises, which are important at this stage! Keep using the commands he has learned throughout his life and teach him some new ones too. Then, reward your pet with treats and lots of affection!

Senior dog food has specific formula for healthy aging

Among the care of elderly dogs, food is the one that most requires attention from guardians. This is because nutritional needs change as the animal's age progresses. While the puppy needs a capricious protein intake to develop well, the adult needs a balanced formula to stay healthy without putting on too much weight. In the case of the elderly dog, thehe way nutrients are absorbed has already changed a lot, becoming much slower than in the first years of life. At this stage, the essential thing is to avoid the loss of nutrients, using food as a tool to make bones stronger and avoid obesity and heart problems, for example.

Just as the energy expenditure and metabolism of an elderly dog decrease considerably, the supply of calories must also be lower. On the other hand, senior dog food with a good amount of fiber can greatly contribute to the well-being of the pet, who may need extra help to maintain a proper gastrointestinal rhythm. Quality proteins continue to play a roleimportant in the canine diet, helping to prevent the loss of muscle mass characteristic of senility.

Senior food: variations and ways of serving meals

When serving senior dog food, a good tip is to divide the recommended daily amount - which varies according to the size of the animal - into two or three small portions and serve throughout the day, at spaced times. Another option well tolerated by older dogs is wet food. The pasty consistency, the stronger smell and the more striking flavor of this type of food are able toconquer the already weakened taste and smell of the elderly.

Try one of these ways to stimulate your dog's appetite, which often declines in old age, and ensure that they are getting the optimal amount of food each day. Don't forget to leave water in various places around the house so that your dog can hydrate wherever they are.

Senior dog vitamin: how supplementation can help the canine body function properly

Even if you switch from adult food to senior food - which should be done gradually - it is common to add some type of vitamin for elderly dogs to the diet. It is worth noting that the diagnosis of this need, as well as the appropriate dose, must be determined by a veterinarian. Only this professional can order tests to identify nutritional deficiencies and indicate the best one for you.supplement option to prevent or treat disease. Below is a list of vitamins that can be prescribed for senior dogs:

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin E
• Calcium

Senior dog diaper: here's how to make wearing it more comfortable for your best friend

Urinary incontinence in dogs is a condition that usually appears in the final stage of life, whether male or female, of any breed. When the animal can no longer retain urine, the dog diaper becomes a necessity, both for the comfort of the animal and for the hygiene of the house. The biggest challenge is to get the dog used to using it, but some tactics can help.

Choose the right size: not too tight, not so wide that it can be easily removed. Before putting it on the dog, dry his belly well. Change the diaper as soon as you notice that it is wet. These two steps prevent the proliferation of fungi and bacteria.

Senior dog care is a way to show gratitude

After a lifetime of good times, experiencing a peaceful and safe old age is all your dog needs! Spend quality time with him, whether it's taking him for light walks in nature or focusing on his comfort at home. How about a relaxing massage for the elderly dog? It costs nothing, helps to improve the animal's flexibility and circulatory system and has theSlide your hands along your pet's spine, applying gentle pressure. The head and ears are also areas that, when massaged, promote a lot of relaxation for dogs. It's simple to make your best friend feel very loved in old age!