Caring for an older dog requires special attention and consideration, as they are more prone to age-related digestive health issues. Here are some essential tips for old dog digestive health care:
- A balanced diet for senior pets is a must! Switch to a senior dog food formula specifically designed for older dogs as it contains lower calories and specific nutrients that cater to their changing needs. Please keep in mind that individual pets may have unique dog dietary requirements
- Maintain a healthy weight for your senior dog to reduce stress on joints and internal organs. Adjust the portion sizes accordingly.
- While older dogs may not be as active as they once were, regular, gentle exercise is still important to keep them mobile and maintain muscle tone. Short, low-impact walks are a good choice. Don’t forget that the lack of physical exercise is a common reason of the constipation in older dogs !
- Dental health is crucial for senior dogs : brush your dog's teeth regularly and provide dental chews or toys to help keep their teeth clean.
- Older dogs may be prone to dehydration, so ensure they have access to clean, fresh water at all times. As explained in our other post on dog dehydration it can worsen dog constipation , so encourage your dog to drink more water! It’s essential for the overall pet’s well-being . Make sure to provide clean water for your dog regularly, especially after exercise or on hot days. The amount of water your lovely dog needs depends on the size and activity level of your pet, and your goal is to keep pet properly hydrated. Dehydration in dogs can lead to various old dog digestive health issues, including dog constipation . So it's crucial to keep their water bowl filled and accessible, especially for senior dogs : make your home more senior-dog-friendly !
- Be vigilant for signs of illness, such as changes in dog’s appetite, energy levels, or bathroom habits. Some senior dogs may experience digestive dysfunction. There are natural digestive dog supplements that may help with such decline. We can advise tasty soft chews GastroBalance Advanced Probiotics for Dogs . This veterinarian-formulated old dog digestive health treatment promotes a natural balance of good bacteria on the basis of probiotics & prebiotics for dogs. To read more about probiotic chews you can in this article
Older dog digestive health require extra attention, but with the right care, they can enjoy a comfortable and happy life during their senior years!