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Old age is a way of life, and dogs aren’t exempt. Although they seem indestructible, their lifestyle changes as they hit new milestones and it’s tough to take. Owners hate watching them struggle because they think it’s the end of an era. In reality, canines live to a ripe old age as long as they are taken care of properly. As the boss, it’s your job to ensure that they are fit, healthy and as barking mad as always by taking precautions. Below are the main ones to consider if you want your dog to be happy way into its golden (retriever) years.
Understand Their Limitations
They won’t be able to walk for miles or endure long trips any longer, so don’t put them through the hassle. Regular exercise is essential to a long life, but it has to be in proportion. An old dog with short, stubby legs won’t be able to keep up if you go for a three-mile job. Instead, put it on a leash a couple of times a day but only go out for a total of forty-five minutes cumulatively. Their diet is another major concern as they can’t burn off the calories as effectively. Help them by reducing portion sizes and keeping snacks to a minimum.
Teach Them New Tricks
The saying reckons they can’t learn new things yet it’s wrong. Dogs might be stubborn yet they are inquisitive and curious. So, a visual or audible aid will grab their attention and make them focus. A clicker is a prime example as the noise teaches them to be alert and listen to commands. This is important as it stops their brain from aging. Mental disintegration is as damaging if not more so than physical aging, so be sure to teach your old dog some new tricks to keep it engaged.
Don’t Say “It’s Old Age”
Owners, perhaps wary of admitting there is a problem, tend to pass off signs of aging as old age. Although this might be true, it might also be the case that there is a problem under the hood. As a rule, it’s better to be safe than sorry with an old pet. A trip to the vet is never a bad thing because it can act as a general checkup. Plus, a bad diagnosis isn’t the end of the world. Does your pet have incontinence? Then diapers from https://petparentsbrand.com/products/dog-diapers can help. Is it losing its hair? Https://www.care.com/c/stories/6450/dog-losing-hair-the-possible-causes-and-what has the answers.
Adopt A Buddy
Studies prove that dogs with friends live longer and don’t suffer from health-related problems. The reason is that they are pack animals and love to sniff and groom and sleep next to other dogs. When they are having fun, they are happy and don’t have to deal with the stress and depression linked with loneliness. Plus, a young buddy will have plenty of energy and make it work out more often.
Old age doesn’t have to dog your pet. Now that you have these tips, it can live a long and healthy life.
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