Dogs spend their entire lives accompanying us through many unforgettable springs, summers, autumns, and winters. When we are sad or upset, they silently stay by our side and never abandon us. There is no feast in the world that does not end; every beautiful encounter has a day of parting. What we cannot hold back, we should cherish the present and accompany and protect our dogs well during their senior stages. Today, the editor has organized related questions on how to raise senior dogs for everyone.

Senior dogs, like elderly people, need companionship. Therefore, the most important aspect of caring for them is emotional connection. They have spent their lives with you; they are attached to you and full of deep affection, becoming part of your family. Now that they are old, as their owner and their support, you should spend more time accompanying your old friend. Carefully observe their changes every day; every small change is part of their life fading away.

Dogs are animals of habit. When dogs age and their bodily functions decline, they need a stable, routine, slow-paced life. Do not disturb them while they rest; let them rest fully. Unless their previous lifestyle was very unscientific, do not easily change their schedules.

At this time, they no longer need intense exercise such as running or swimming. Daily walks are sufficient; let them decide whether to walk or stop. After all, they are no longer in their prime.

Dogs should have their teeth brushed one to two times every week using a professional toothbrush. This also helps prevent bad breath and remove tartar.

Elderly people often lack calcium, and senior dogs are no different. Provide increased, appropriate, and continuous calcium supplements. Pay attention to their weight because excessive obesity can affect their bones. If your dog limps while walking, it’s time to visit the vet.

Senior dogs have weaker teeth and stomachs and need soft, easily digestible food. The food should focus on high calcium, low phosphorus, moderate fiber, and quality protein.

Monitor the dog’s weight; if it keeps dropping, visit the hospital to find out the cause.

Dogs are prone to more than 40 types of common eye diseases, so pay attention to their eye health and look into their eyes often. Preventing eye diseases avoids discomfort and dangers for them.

Regularly groom their fur to promote winter coat growth. At the same time, check their bodies for lumps, examine underarms and legs for any illness, and check whether lymph nodes are enlarged.

Keep vaccinations up to date and conduct regular full health checkups, especially for internal organs. Each year, schedule checkups about half a month earlier than the previous year. Senior dogs’ immunity steadily declines, making them prone to illness. Once infected, consequences can be severe.

Senior dogs have slower reactions, so always keep them on a leash and do not let them wander freely. In winter, dress them warmly; in summer, avoid outdoor exposure between 10 am and 4 pm.

It’s acceptable if they relieve themselves indoors occasionally, but otherwise, try to take them outside once or twice more. Observe their excretion for symptoms; if there is difficulty or pain, take them to the vet.