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Making Decisions For Your Older Dog

Older dogs require a little more special attention.

Food Choices

Your older dog may require less food or a complete change in the type of food he is willing to eat. His sense of smell and taste may diminish as the years pass, which may cause him to turn down his usual brand of dog food. You may have to try a few different brands before you can entice him to eat with good appetite again. An older dog may also have slower digestion, which can lead to more stomach upsets. Diarrhea or constipation may be more common. Keep a regular schedule with a set amount of food to maintain good health. Always ensure that you choose a reputable brand of dog food with high-quality protein. Some brands have special food for senior dogs that are easier to digest and have additional vitamins.

Other Pets

If your dog is older and beginning to have health problems, it may not be a good idea to attempt to introduce a new pet to the household. Although some people feel that providing a "buddy" can be helpful for an older dog, the stress of adjusting to another pet in the home may be too much for an older pet. If you already have other pets in your household, you may want to allow the older dog to rest in separate room by himself for part of the day to allow him to recharge.

Boarding Your Older Dog

When you go away for vacation, deciding the best care for your dog can become more complicated when he is older. A traditional boarding kennel may be too stressful for him, and he may not get the rest he needs. A dog-sitting service that comes to your home to care for your dog while you are away may be a better option for an older dog. The dog stays in his usual, peaceful surroundings, with the same food and the same water. The barking of other dogs will not keep him awake or cause stress. These services are often more expensive that dog kennels but can provide individual care for your older dog.

Veterinary Decision

Older dogs often develop medical problems that require ongoing treatment.

Older dogs often develop medical problems that require ongoing treatment. In some cases, your veterinarian may suggest diagnostic procedures or treatments that may be too strenuous or hazardous for an older dog that may have limitations in respiratory function, heart function or kidney function. Speak frankly with your veterinarian about your fears for your dog's health and safety while undergoing anesthesia and serious medical procedures. Don't feel pressured to agree to risky treatments that may not work and may put your dog through considerable discomfort. These decisions are often difficult to make and may involve a conflict between risk and reward. You are the one that knows your dog best and how much treatment he can endure.

Your dog's older years can be a special period when you take a little more care and spend a little more time ensuring his safety, as well as letting him know how much he means to you.