Caring for an older dog: the guide and the daily routine

Watching your companion go grey around the muzzle is a tender moment. Getting older isn't an illness, but it's a stage that calls for a few adjustments. Caring for an older dog is mostly about watching, listening and adapting their everyday life to their new needs.

This guide covers the main topics to know, then walks you through a typical day for your senior dog, from morning to night. To go further, we also have an article on setting up your home for an older dog.

At what age does a dog become a senior?

There's no single age. It mostly depends on size: large dogs generally age sooner than small ones. A large dog can show signs of age well before a small dog of the same age.

The easiest way to know is to ask your veterinarian. They'll tell you when to adjust your dog's care, based on breed, size and health.

Caring for an older dog starts at the vet

With age, some problems set in quietly. Regular visits help catch them early. For a senior dog, your veterinarian may suggest more frequent checkups, often twice a year, sometimes with blood or urine tests.

To make the most of each visit:

• Keep a small notebook of what you notice: appetite, thirst, sleep, interest in play, the way they walk.
• Bring a list of everything they eat, treats included.
• Film any unusual behaviour in case it doesn't happen in front of the vet.

Their senses change: adapt how you communicate

An older dog may not see or hear as well. They may startle more easily or seem to ignore you when you call.

• If their hearing is fading: use hand signals, and let them know you're coming by tapping your foot gently on the floor or stepping into their line of sight.
• If their eyesight is fading: avoid moving furniture around, talk to them before touching them and always keep their bowls in the same spot.
• Either way: be patient. They're not ignoring you on purpose.

Food that suits their age

An older dog is often less active. Their calorie needs may go down, while the quality of their food matters just as much. Extra weight can make getting around harder.

• Ask your veterinarian whether a senior dog food would suit them, and how much to serve.
• Keep fresh water within reach wherever they spend time. A sudden increase in thirst is worth mentioning to your vet.
• Choose treats that are easy to chew. Our duck training treats are small, soft bites, about 2.7 kcal each.

If you'd like to add a little something to their mealtime routine, our chicken-flavoured multivitamin functional treat is formulated to support your dog's overall health. Give it with or after a meal, starting with half the suggested amount. It doesn't replace your veterinarian's advice: check with them if your dog is on medication or a special diet.

Teeth: an often-forgotten part of care

Oral health matters at every age, and even more so for an older dog. Bad breath, hesitant chewing or dropping food can be signs of dental discomfort.

Brush their teeth regularly with a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs, and have their mouth checked at every visit. Only your veterinarian can say whether a cleaning or treatment is needed.

Memory and behaviour: stay alert

Some older dogs change their behaviour. They may seem lost in the house, stare at a wall, become restless or wake up at night, or forget well-learned habits.

These signs aren't "just old age". Talk to your veterinarian, who can assess what's going on. In the meantime, a steady routine like the one below and a few sniffing games help them keep their bearings.

The daily routine

When their days follow the same rhythm, your senior dog knows what to expect. They move around with more confidence, worry less about surprises and rest better. The routine helps you too: doing the same things every day, you'll notice sooner when a meal goes untouched, a walk gets cut short or a nap runs longer than usual.

Here's a typical day, to adjust to your dog's energy and your veterinarian's advice.

Morning: a gentle wake-up

• Let them loosen up: many older dogs are a bit stiff when they wake up. Give them a few minutes to stretch before heading out.
• A short first outing: a few minutes to do their business, at their own pace, on stable ground.
• Breakfast at a set time: serve their meal at the same time every day, in a quiet spot, with fresh water nearby.

Midday: move a little, think a lot

Moving helps keep their muscles active. Several short outings are better than one long, tiring walk.

• Let them sniff: for a senior dog, exploring scents is exercise in itself, easy on the body and stimulating for the mind.
• Add a little game: a snuffle mat, a few kibbles hidden under cups or a simple cue they already know. Keep sessions short and always end on a success.

Afternoon: time to rest

An older dog sleeps more than before. That's normal. Help them make the most of their naps:

• A good bed: thick, firm and easy to get into, away from drafts. Our guide to choosing the right dog bed can help.
• A quiet corner: away from the comings and goings, but close enough to the family that they don't feel alone.
• A bit of contact: a gentle brushing or a few cuddles are also a chance to check their skin, ears and paws.

Evening: a reassuring bedtime ritual

• Supper at a set time, then one last calm outing before the night.
• A night light: a small light in the hallway helps them find their way if they get up at night.
• Always the same order: outing, water, bed. This little sequence tells them the day is over.

Every week: the small things that count

• Teeth: regular brushing, as covered above.
• Nails: overgrown nails can make them slip and change the way they walk.
• Weight: a weigh-in helps you adjust portions, since a less active dog often needs fewer calories.
• The notebook: take a few minutes to jot down what you noticed during the week.

Frequently asked questions

My dog doesn't want to do their long walk anymore. What should I do?

Swap it for two or three shorter outings. If they seem to be in pain or are limping, see your veterinarian. Our tips on joint stiffness can help too.

Can my older dog still learn?

Yes! Small lessons and search games keep their mind busy. Keep sessions short and fun, and reward every success.

How can I tell if they're in pain?

Dogs often hide pain. Read our article on signs of pain in dogs and, if in doubt, call your veterinarian.

Is it a problem if they sleep a lot?

Sleeping more than before is to be expected. A sudden change in their sleep habits, though, is worth a call to the vet.

In short

Caring for an older dog means regular vet visits, communication adapted to their senses, adjusted food, healthy teeth and plenty of patience. Day to day, an unhurried wake-up, short outings, regular meals, comfy naps and a reassuring bedtime give them their bearings. These golden years are often the ones with the strongest bond. Enjoy them.