Caring for Your Senior Dog: A Special Bond and How to Keep Them Comfortable By Nancy Novograd, Owner of All Tame Animals Talent Agency and Co-Founder of The Canine Project

There’s something incredibly special about caring for a senior dog. As they age, our relationship with them deepens, and we gain a greater understanding of their needs. Whether your dog is 7 or 14, the senior years are a time to repay them for all the unconditional love they’ve given us by providing extra care and attention.

At All Tame Animals, I’ve had the pleasure of working with and being the parent of dogs of all ages, and caring for senior animals is something I hold close to my heart. Their needs may shift, but their loyalty and love never fades. As a co-founder of BEST BARKIN’ WIPES, I also believe in caring for dogs with products made of the safest possible ingredients and materials, and this is especially important in caring for senior dogs.  

In honor or National Senior Pet Awareness Month, I am sharing some tips that I follow for my own senior dog, Hunter, to ensure she ages gracefully and continues to enjoy life to the fullest.

 1. Gentle Grooming for Sensitive Skin

 As dogs age, their skin can become more sensitive, and their fur might lose some of its luster. This is why regular grooming is so important. However, bathing your senior dog too often can dry out their skin, so it’s essential to have a gentler alternative for keeping them clean.

 This is where BEST BARKIN’ WIPES come in handy. They’re perfect for a quick wipe-down after walks or during routine care without the need for a full bath. They’re designed to be gentle, soothing, and effective for all dogs, especially seniors with more delicate skin. Regular grooming with wipes also helps reduce dander and allergens, keeping their coat healthy and shiny.

 2. Pay Attention to Mobility

 As your dog gets older, their joints may become stiff, and arthritis might start to set in. You’ll notice they aren’t as quick to jump up on the couch or they may struggle with stairs. To keep your senior dog comfortable:

•  Provide soft bedding: A supportive, orthopedic dog bed can help alleviate pressure on their joints and improve their sleep quality.
• Use ramps: If your dog still enjoys lounging on furniture or in the car, consider adding ramps to make these transitions easier for them.
• Gentle exercise: Regular, low-impact exercise like short walks or swimming helps maintain muscle tone and joint flexibility. Monitor their energy levels and don’t push them too hard.

 3. Regular Veterinary Checkups

 Senior dogs benefit from more frequent visits to the vet to monitor their overall health. Conditions like arthritis, dental disease, or vision and hearing loss are common in older dogs, but many of these issues can be managed with proper care. Your vet can recommend supplements or medications to help alleviate discomfort and keep them active longer.

 Keeping up with routine vaccinations, dental care, and bloodwork ensures your dog stays as healthy as possible in their golden years. Early detection of potential issues can make a significant difference in their quality of life.

 4. Tailor Their Diet

 As your dog gets older, their nutritional needs change. Senior dogs often require diets lower in calories but rich in nutrients to maintain a healthy weight and support aging joints and organs. Talk to your vet about switching to a senior dog food that’s right for your dog’s breed and health needs.

 Some senior dogs also struggle with dental issues, making it harder for them to chew. Softening their food or switching to a high-quality wet food can make mealtime easier and more enjoyable for them.

 5. Show Them Extra Love and Patience

 Senior dogs may not have the same energy levels they once did, but they still crave your love and attention. Spend quality time with them, whether it’s gentle belly rubs, cuddling on the couch, or taking leisurely walks in their favorite spots.

 They may also experience cognitive decline, leading to confusion or anxiety. Be patient with your dog as they adjust to aging, and keep their environment calm and comforting.

 6. Keep Them Clean and Comfortable

 As senior dogs may not be able to groom themselves as effectively as they used to, keeping them clean becomes more of a challenge. They may have accidents or be unable to clean themselves after eating. BEST BARKIN’ WIPES are a convenient, gentle solution for these moments. With regular use, you can help your senior dog stay fresh and comfortable without the need for frequent baths, which can be stressful for older dogs.

 The wipes are not only safe for sensitive skin, but they also contain natural ingredients that soothe and protect, making them ideal for those times when a full bath isn’t necessary. A quick wipe down keeps your dog feeling fresh, happy, and comfortable in their own skin.

 Taking care of a senior dog is a rewarding experience, and with the right adjustments, we can make sure their golden years are filled with comfort and love. Whether it’s providing extra attention to their grooming routine or simply being there to offer a calming touch, your senior dog will appreciate every bit of care you give them.

With the help of BEST BARKIN' WIPES, you can keep your senior dog clean, fresh, and happy while giving them the extra TLC they deserve. Here's to many more years of joy and companionship with your canine friend!