Dogs mature faster than we do early on.
As a dog gets older, they can develop various health problems that affect their lifespan. Fortunately, there are many things owners can do to help their older dogs live longer, healthier lives. Here are four ways to extend the life of your older dog with a few simple changes:
1. Feed your dog a healthy diet
Your dog’s body ages every day. As it gets older, its organs stop working to filter out toxins and remove waste from the bloodstream. Hence, giving your older dog a daily detox can help improve his or her health and lifespan by clearing the body of harmful chemicals that cause organ damage.
Your dog’s diet can have a huge impact on their lifespan. Dogs that eat a nutritious, low-calorie diet and holistic pet foods tend to live longer than those who eat processed foods. Make sure you are feeding your dog the right food for their age and health. Often times, as your dog ages, they lose their sense of smell and taste. This can make them less interested in their food and lead to weight loss.
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You can also consider adding nutritional supplements such as fish oil or probiotics to your dog’s diet. These supplements can help improve your dog’s overall health and extend their lifespan.
2. Train your dog
Just like humans, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy. Make sure your older dog has enough opportunities to move around and stay active throughout the day. If possible, take short walks or other physical activities that will help keep his joints moving so he can live a long life without pain or injury.
Older dogs are more prone to developing arthritis and other joint problems. If your older dog is already experiencing chronic pain, consider giving him a dietary supplement or two for pets with arthritis. These supplements can help reduce inflammation in the joints and support healthy bone growth while increasing mobility.
3. Puzzle toys and games
Dogs need mental stimulation just as much as they need physical exercise. Puzzle toys and games are a great way to keep your dog’s mind active and healthy. These toys can help prevent the cognitive decline that is common in older dogs.
Make sure you switch the type of puzzles and games you give your dog so he doesn’t get bored. Some ideas include hiding food around the house, using puzzle toys to feed your dog his regular meals, or giving him treats specifically designed for mental stimulation, such as kongs filled with peanut butter.
As dogs get older, they can have difficulty walking long distances and climbing stairs. If you are concerned about your older dog’s mobility, consider getting him a stair climber or a pet ramp. These devices can help your dog get around more easily and extend their lifespan by preventing joint pain and other mobility-related problems.
Older dogs have weakened immune systems and are more prone to disease and infection. To help your dog stay healthy, you should give him an oral probiotic with meals. These supplements can help improve digestion and strengthen the immune system to prevent infection.
4. Monitor sleep patterns
Dogs sleep an average of 12 to 14 hours a day, but older dogs can experience changes in their sleep patterns as they age. Some older dogs can become restless at night and cannot sleep through the night. If you notice your dog is having trouble sleeping, contact your veterinarian for advice on how to help him sleep well.
Older dogs are also more prone to cognitive problems, which can cause them to bark or whine while they sleep. If you notice your dog making strange noises while sleeping, it could be a sign of a bigger health problem.
Older dogs are adorable, but they have their own unique needs when it comes to grooming and nutrition. By following these five tips you can help your older dog live long, healthy lives full of happiness and fun.
