Watching your dog get older can be tough. The liveliness of their puppy years have come and gone, and they may not be able to play like they used to—but this doesn’t mean they can’t live a good life. Older dogs can have years of happiness and companionship ahead of them.
If your dog isn’t as spritely as they used to be, fear not—read on for four helpful tips on how to keep them happy and comfortable, even in their old age.
#1: Invest in a Cozy Bed
Puppies can sleep anywhere—one minute they’re running in circles around the house, the next they’re passed out on the hardwood floor with a toy hanging out of their mouth.
An older dog may not be able to sleep as easily without a little added comfort. As dogs get older, they can suffer from joint pain, sleeplessness, and even nighttime anxiety.
To help your dog sleep comfortably, consider getting them an orthopedic bed. Foam padding will be gentle on the joints and relieve some of the pain, which will help them fall asleep easier. The soft, cozy material will soothe anxiety and keep them warm and relaxed—you don’t want to be waking up in the middle of the night to anxiety-induced barking.
Just like humans, your dog’s circadian rhythm is going to change as they get older. Help them transition into this new period of life with a comfortable place to sleep. They may not be able to play like they used to, but a good night’s sleep is surely going to help them have more energy during the day.
#2: Step Stool for the Car
Many pets love going on car rides, but as they grow older, getting in and out of a car can prove to be difficult. If you drive an SUV or any car that’s high above the ground—jumping in and out of the vehicle can be hard on an older dog’s joints.
One way to ensure your dog is comfortable (without sacrificing their beloved car rides) is to get them a doggy-step ladder. This helpful tool is compact, portable, and easy to use. Simply unfold the ladder for easy access. If your dog loves being on the go, this easy trick will keep them happy and healthy—making the later years of their life just as enjoyable as their puppy days (with a few minor adjustments).
#3: CBD
Many older dogs suffer from joint pain, and the medication choices for pets are slimmer than those for humans. If you’re interested in a natural alternative to help with your dog’s chronic pain, we recommend CBD for pets.
That’s right—there are CBD products in the market that are specifically formulated for pets. The right product for your dog will depend on their size and weight.
The endocannabinoids in CBD attach to receptors in the brain associated with physiological regulation—this means that CBD can help with joint inflammation, eating habits, and mood control. So not only is CBD helpful for joint pain in pets, but it can also soothe anxiety and help with appetite and digestion! A win-win for your furry family member.
#4: Dog Vitamins
As your dog gets older, they may not be getting all the nutrients they need to stay healthy. If you want to keep your dog feeling energized, healthy, and prevent future disease—try giving them vitamins. Dog vitamins come in all different varieties, but if your dog is on the older side, we recommend brands specially formulated for aging dogs.
Giving your dog vitamin supplements has a myriad of health benefits, including:
- Immune System Support – Vitamins C and E will help your dog maintain a healthy immune system and prevent sickness.
- Stay Active – Omega fatty acids will provide energy to keep them playing like they’re still puppies. They help maintain your dog’s shiny, full coat and may help heal skin issues.
- Healthy Joints and Bones – Amino acids help in glucosamine production to keep bones and joints healthy and strong.
Make the Most of These Sunset Years
Just because your dog is getting older doesn’t mean they have to be uncomfortable. The later years of a dog’s life have the potential to be some of the happiest of their life. With your love and companionship, along with a few helpful tricks to keep them feeling comfortable and healthy, your dog will be feeling like a puppy all over again.