Skip to main content

8 tips for caring for a senior dog to make their final days memorable

If you’re like most pet parents, you don’t want to think about ever saying a final goodbye to your beloved senior dog. Sadly, though, this is an inevitable part of life, so it’s something you’ll need to consider if your dog is over a certain age.

Senior dog care can be tricky in a more logical way, too. It’s not always easy to tell how an older dog is feeling, especially if they’re experiencing a lot of normal symptoms of aging, but with an observant eye and the help of your veterinarian, you can keep your four-legged friend comfy and happy for as long as possible. Keep on reading to discover when a dog is considered elderly, symptoms of aging to look out for, and ways to care for your senior pup. Your dog will thank you!

What age is considered old age for a dog?

Many factors affect a dog’s age and condition. This makes the line between adult and senior dogs a bit blurry, but when most dogs reach that milestone, on average (via VCA Hospitals):

  • Small dogs: 11 years old
  • Medium dogs:10 years old
  • Large dogs: 8 years old
  • Giant dogs:7 years old

Of course, there are many factors that determine a dog’s relative “age.” Even if they qualify as a senior, there’s no reason to believe the end is near unless you notice any significant health changes.

An elderly French bulldog sleeps in a fluffy bed
Image used with permission by copyright holder

How do I know if my dog is suffering?

As your dog ages, it’s normal for them to experience some physical decline. Leesville Animal Hospital notes that there are many changes you can expect, especially in your best friend’s final days. Some don’t cause any further discomfort or confusion, but others may mean your dog is not feeling well. These include:

  • Loss of appetite and/or thirst
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Vomiting, diarrhea, and incontinence
  • Restlessness and confusion
  • Lack of interest in toys, food, attention, etc.
  • Muscle stiffness or twitching
  • Slowed breathing

If you notice any of these signs or any other strange or quick changes in your dog’s behavior, it’s a good idea to let your vet know. They will be able to advise you on the best ways to keep your four-legged friend as comfortable as possible in the days ahead.

An elderly labrador lies in their bed peacefully
Image used with permission by copyright holder

Tips for senior dog care

Senior dog care may seem challenging on the surface, but there are many things you can do to make it easier for you both.

1. Stay as active as possible

When you exercise your dog regularly, notes the American Veterinary Medical Association, you help them fight all kinds of age-related disease. Cardiovascular strength and weight loss will make your furry friend more comfortable and able to keep up with the life they love, so there’s no reason not to take that walk.

2. Switch to a senior diet

If you haven’t already done so, getting your dog started on a diet meant for senior pups can provide many benefits. Not only is this kind of food easier to digest, but it also has different nutrient levels to support joint health and prevent weight gain. When in doubt, your vet can recommend a brand or two to try.

3. Upgrade their dog bed

Dogs experience a lot of the same aches and pains people do as they age, so it’s easy to see why it may be harder for them to get comfortable. Luckily, investing in an orthopedic dog bed can make a world of difference for your best buddy.

4. Regular vet visits

Whether or not your pet has any preexisting conditions, seeing your vet on a regular basis will help you stay on top of your pup’s health and wellness. Make sure to follow all of their instructions!

5. Be patient

As animals age and near the end of life, they experience many physical and mental changes. This can be scary, to say the least, so it’s not unusual for a senior dog to act anxious or be easily startled. Be patient with your buddy as they navigate these changes—they’d do the same for you!

6. Make your home accessible

Small changes around the house, like a staircase to help your dog onto the couch, can go a long way in lifting their spirits. You may also want to consider baby gates around hazardous areas or stairs they can’t navigate—whatever makes it easier for your four-legged pal.

7. Use a dog support sling

For pups with mobility concerns, a support sling or harness can be a saving grace. It will help you move your dog, and it will help them shift, stand, or walk without being 100% reliant on you. It will take some getting used to, but it’s nothing you and your buddy can’t handle.

8. Just be together

Even if your dog is spending most of their time sleeping, there’s no reason why you can’t make the most of every moment. Treat them to a massage, enjoy a movie together, or even cuddle up for a nap—whatever works for you.

As long as you’re checking in with your veterinarian and paying attention to your dog’s comfort, you’re doing just fine. There’s no one way to be a pet parent—whether your fur baby is truly a baby or nearing their final days. What’s most important is keeping your pup comfy and pain-free—and tons of love, of course!

Editors' Recommendations

Gabrielle LaFrank
Gabrielle LaFrank has written for sites such as Psych2Go, Elite Daily, and, currently, PawTracks. When she's not writing, you…
Hot spots on dogs: What you need to know
This is how to get rid of hot spots and keep them away
Puppy scratches his ear on the sand

Finding hot spots on dogs can lead to outright panic. These sores can look — and feel — painful, not to mention scary. They also spread frequently until the underlying condition is properly addressed, sometimes with the aid of your vet and medication.

But don't stress too much if you find itchy hot spots on your canine's skin, since they're almost always fixable. With a little help from you and the dog doc, you'll have your pup back to 100% in no time.

Read more
Why do dogs get eye boogers? What you need to know about this common problem (and when you should be concerned)
Eye boogers are rarely serious but sometimes can indicate an infection
Closeup of dog eye

Eye boogers: The truth is that we all get them. At least both humans and our canine companions. Nearly everyone will experience this at some point in pet parenthood (human parenthood as well, usually), and it's certainly nothing to worry about most of the time.

Standard eye discharge doesn't mean a dog eye infection, but the two can be linked. We'll go through when this isn't an issue and what to look for to figure out if there's more going on. Here's everything you need to know about puppy eye goop.

Read more
The best ways to pet your dog to show them how much you care
There's a right way to pet your dog. Here's what you need to know
A man's hand pets the head of a shepherd dog

There are a hundred ways to make a dog happy, from delicious treats to epic playtime. Pets, scratches, and belly rubs almost always make the top of the list, too  -- but did you know there are particular ways to pet your dog to show them how much you love them?
In this article, you’ll learn how to pet your dog -- what tricks and techniques to use to relax them, what spots to avoid, and how to keep everyone comfy and happy. Of course, every dog has their own likes and dislikes, so it’s important to pay attention to your fur baby’s body language and behavior during your massage sessions.
This is what you need to know.

How to pet your dog to show them you love them
In general, most pups are just happy to get some attention from their favorite person, but there are a few specific things you can do to make your next pamper sesh a little more special.

Read more