Age-related frailty in dogs – How to help your furry friend

An issue that affects most of us at some point: aging in dogs. We all want nothing more than for our beloved four-legged friends to be with us for as long as possible. How old they actually get depends on various factors. Their size also plays a decisive role: While small dogs often live up to 15 years, the life expectancy of large dogs averages between 8 and 13 years. Accordingly, larger dogs often show the first signs of aging earlier.

In this article, you'll learn how to recognize signs of aging in dogs and how to provide your dog with the best possible care during this stage of life.

Age-related weakness in dogs – How can you tell if your dog has it? 

Of course, all dogs are different, so some show signs of aging earlier than others. These signs can be visible on the outside or affect their behavior or health. Examples include

• Gray hair – This gradual process usually begins around the mouth or above the eyes.
• Coat and skin changes – You may often notice a dull or brittle coat and flaky skin.
• Sensory impairments – Vision and/or hearing may decline with age. 
• Changes in weight – Both weight gain and weight loss are possible. 
• Weaker immune system – Infections tend to affect older dogs more quickly and severely. 
• Joint problems – These are caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis or osteoporosis.
• Less muscle – Muscle mass often decreases and gait becomes less steady.
• More rest periods – Many owners notice that their dogs are sleeping longer and more frequently. The dogs often seem lethargic and lacking in energy. 

Often, one thing leads to another: for example, a reduced sense of smell can cause a dog to lose its appetite, and weight loss and joint pain can reduce the dog’s desire to move around.

It’s important to distinguish between age-related decline and signs of illness, such as dementia in dogs. This is because the symptoms mentioned above can also be signs of conditions that are particularly common in older dogs. You know your pet best and are therefore in the best position to tell if something is wrong. Still, it never hurts to consult a veterinarian to be sure.

What can I do to help my dog cope with the effects of aging?

Of course, you can’t stop the aging process, and much of it is genetically determined. But you have the opportunity to make your dog’s life as comfortable as possible and thereby improve its quality of life.

Adjust your dog's diet to suit its advanced age

Since most dogs become more sedentary as they age, their calorie needs also decrease. Make sure your dog doesn’t become overweight. Being overweight can put additional strain on the joints and increase the risk of conditions such as diabetes. There are special “light” foods available with a lower calorie content. If your dog enjoys eating vegetables, you can also supplement their meals with low-calorie vegetables.

But the opposite situation is also common. If your dog isn’t eating as much, try making the food more appealing. Your dog still needs to build up reserves. For example, you can add a little warm water or high-quality oil to the food as an additional—but moderate—source of calories. Adding treats as a topping can also stimulate your dog’s appetite.

Our nacani products are ideal for senior dogs. Not only are they extremely tasty, but they also contain natural CBD, which can help maintain the body’s balance and positively impact your dog’s quality of life. CBD has no serious side effects. However, it’s important to keep an eye on how much CBD your dog is allowed to have.

Adapt your daily routine to accommodate a dog with old age

As your dog enters his senior years, you should, if possible, slow down the pace of daily life and adapt it to his needs. With a little patience and understanding, you can make your older dog’s life much more comfortable.

Patience is especially important during walks. Even if your dog starts to slow down, regular walks are still essential—though you’ll need to take plenty of breaks. The sensory experiences outdoors, such as smells and sounds, are important for your dog’s well-being and mental stimulation. Interacting with other dogs, ideally those of a similar age, can also be beneficial for your dog.

In winter, you should dress your dog warmly, as older dogs with thin coats are especially prone to getting cold. Most pet stores carry a wide selection of dog coats in all sizes and styles, so there should be something to suit every dog and every taste.

If your pet is already having trouble seeing or hearing, it may also be a good idea to keep them on a leash during walks. This will help prevent them from getting disoriented and ending up in dangerous situations.

You should also make your home as senior-friendly as possible. Think about how you can make the environment more comfortable for your dog, for example by providing a cozy, easily accessible sleeping spot on the ground floor so he can avoid stairs whenever possible. If stairs are unavoidable, you might be able to carry him depending on his size, or use an elevator whenever possible when you’re out and about. A ramp for the car can also make getting in easier and be beneficial for his worn-out joints.