Are you caring for a senior dog? While I still think of my two furkids as spry young pups, the truth is, they’ve graduated to senior dog status. My Chihuahua, Diego, is 11, and my toy poodle, Gigi, is 10. As our fluffy family members age, their needs evolve. Here are a few ways you can ensure your home is comfortable for your aging canine.
1. Comfortable Dog Beds Made with Seniors In Mind
Remember how Regina George’s mom had no rules in her house? Because she’s not a regular mom … she’s a cool mom? Well, my house is kind of like that in terms of dogs on the furniture. My pups are welcome to get cozy on all couches and beds. And while they typically choose to snooze in our bed (I can’t blame them … we have a very comfortable mattress), I still provide other resting spots.
Here are some things to watch for when shopping for a great senior dog bed:
- Memory Foam – Orthopedic dog beds with memory foam are the way to go. One obvious benefit is they provide comfort for achy joints. When your pooch plops down, the memory foam will immediately hug their body and accommodate any sleeping position. Another plus? Memory foam is stiff enough for senior dogs to easily get up after lying down.
- Waterproof/Stain Resistant – Has your aging canine started having accidents in the house? Incontinence is a common symptom in senior pups. To help prepare for this life stage, look for a bed with waterproof lining or a removable cover that can be easily taken off and washed.
- Cooling or Warming Technology – Heated beds are a wonderful choice for arthritic dogs since warmth can help relieve aches and pains. While some beds provide warming fabrics, there are other options that act similar to heated blankets, where you actually plug them in and crank up the heat. Then there are cooling gel beds. Since older dogs can’t regulate their body temperature quite as well, cooling beds really come in handy during those hot summer months.
2. Plushy Pet Steps
Jumping on and off couches/beds puts a lot of strain on your aging dog’s joints. Placing pet steps near your furniture is a great way to assist your dog. I personally prefer steps over ramps because they provide more cushion. The pet steps from “Best Pet Supplies Store” on Amazon are made with mattress-grade cushioning and are available in 3-step, 4-step, and 5-step configurations to easily match your furniture’s height. I’ve kept these exact pet stairs near my bed for several years and can tell you this: They’re a game changer!
3. Dog Gates
Many senior dogs experience mobility issues and restrictions. If you have a two or three-story home, and you’re concerned about your dog climbing the stairs unsupervised, consider installing a gate. Worried about the aesthetic? I totally get it – pet parents can strive for nice home decor too! Instead of a traditional plastic gate, look into retractable fabric options or wooden gates. Note: While clear acrylic gates are visually appealing, they may not be best for senior dogs suffering from vision problems. It’s pretty easy for your dog to overlook the clear acrylic and accidentally bump into the gate.
4. Area Rugs
Does your senior dog struggle to walk on hardwood or tile floors? If so, try adding a few non-slip area rugs to your high-traffic areas. Along with larger area rugs to fill a room, there are also smaller rugs designed for wooden stairs.
5. Declutter
Are you noticing visual changes in your dog? Is he bumping into things? Does he get surprised or startled when you approach him? Maybe your pooch isn’t seeing as well as he used to. Along with getting your dog’s eyes checked by your vet, strive to keep your floors free of clutter. Less clutter = fewer things for your pup to bump into.
