Unfortunately, canines don’t enjoy a lifespan nearly as long as humans. Dogs generally live from 8 to 14 years. So, once most pups (especially larger breeds) reach  6 or 7 years of age, they’re considered to be seniors. Like people, dogs develop struggles of old age such as arthritis, diabetes, loss of senses, digestive issues and even dementia. The most important thing to their people is to give them the longest, happiest and healthiest life possible, to continue to return to them the same loyalty that they’ve devoted to their humans over the years. Consider these selections to pamper your four-legged pal:

Supportive Bedding

Some pups prefer to sleep in their human’s bed. It’s always good to have a dog bed available, too. Older dogs usually aren’t able to jump up onto human beds or sofas without help, so they need a comfy bed to call their own. Your dog’s particular issue(s) will determine what type of bed they need. Thick, solid-filling, memory foam beds are great for dogs with joint problems. Pups that get cold easily love cozy, enclosed “tent” beds or warming beds. Dogs that get hot easily enjoy beds made of a cooler fabric. 

Ramps and Steps

Mobility issues such as joint pain hinder aging dogs from being able to hop up onto beds, sofas, navigate stairs or jump into cars. Fortunately, there are different types of portable doggy ramps and steps available to fit the needs of you and your pup. It’ll be a little more effort on your part, but it’ll be worth it to save your dog from unnecessary pain. 

Vitamins and Supplements

Ideally, dog parents don’t want to put their pups on unneeded medications. Just as humans benefit from non-pharmacological supplements such as those from Nucific, numerous types of supplements treat a variety of health issues. Glucosamine and Chondroitin are great for dogs with arthritis, as they help to protect the cartilage of the joints. Omega-3s produce anti-inflammatory benefits and contribute to less joint pain and better cognition. Probiotics help with digestive issues and promote a healthy immune system. 

Physical Exercise

Even if your dog has some mobility issues, it’s good to keep some amount of physical exercise in their routine for their cardiovascular health, healthy weight, and bone and joint health. Just as muscles support joints in humans, the same is true with dogs. Better muscle tone means more limber joints. Swimming is great for dogs with arthritis since it’s low-impact but still a good cardiovascular workout. Take it slow and let your dog tell you how much they can do without overdoing it. The important thing is to keep them active and mobile. 

Massage

Dogs with chronic pain from arthritis or other conditions can get a lot of benefits from routine massage. Massage provides pain relief and blood flow to joints and muscles is increased. Pain relief and relaxation time also reduce anxiety. Try to give your pooch a massage first thing in the morning or after physical activity or at bedtime. 

Pup parents want nothing more than to see their furbaby happy and healthy. As medicine extends the life of dogs, their humans are responsible for making sure that they remain as comfortable and happy as possible through their golden years.