Though no dog lover likes to think about it, canines live considerably shorter than humans. This fact is one of life’s saddest truths, but there are ways you can help your dog age gracefully and enjoy their final years with you as much as possible. It is very important to realize that your dog is not as vital as before and you need to learn how to take care of an older pooch.

Here are five tips that will change your ageing dog’s life for the better:

The vet is your friend.

Since older dogs are more prone to many health problems such as arthritis, heart and kidney disease, they need regular checkups. Take them to the vet at least twice a year, and don’t hesitate to ask for professional help and advice if something’s wrong.

Activity is the key to a longer life.

Though Fido will definitely slow down, you need to keep them active. Your dog won’t have as much energy as they had when they were a pup, but they still need to exercise. Spend a lot of time outdoors and remember to take it easy: it’s ok if they can’t do something they used to do before.

Make it easy for them to get around.

Like older people, dogs also might need some assistance in performing simple actions. A set of stairs might become a serious problem, and you need to be there to help them around the house.

They need lots of sleep.

A good night’s sleep is important for dogs of all ages, especially for old pooches. You can surprise them with a handmade dog bed, or purchase a memory foam dog bed that will keep an ageing dog warm and cozy.

Age-appropriate diet.

They need changes in their diet as they grow older. Some dogs are prone to rapid weight gain, while others shed too many pounds. Talk to your vet, ask for recommendations, and remember to buy quality food that meets all their nutritious needs.

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