Top 5 Common Health Concerns in Senior Dogs: How to Prevent and Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy

As our beloved canine companions age, it's important to be aware of the common health concerns that they may develop. By taking preventative measures, we can help our senior dogs live happy, healthy, and comfortable lives for many more years to come. Here are some tips on how to prevent the top five common health concerns in senior dogs.

Arthritis

One of the best ways to prevent arthritis is to maintain a healthy weight for your dog. Obesity can put extra strain on joints, which can lead to arthritis over time. Regular exercise and physical therapy can also help to keep joints healthy and reduce the risk of arthritis. Fish oils and supplements containing glucosamine can also be helpful as an early intervention for aging dogs and good for joint health. 

Cognitive decline

Keeping your dog mentally stimulated can help to prevent cognitive decline. Provide plenty of opportunities for exercise, play, and social interaction, and consider using interactive toys or puzzles to keep your dog's mind active.

Cancer

Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and appropriate testing can help to identify cancer early on, when it is most treatable. Keep your dog up-to-date with their vaccinations and preventative care, and be sure to report any unusual symptoms or lumps to your vet right away.

Kidney and Liver Disease

Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can help to keep your dog's kidneys and liver in good condition. Avoid giving your dog table scraps or other high-fat foods, and provide plenty of fresh water. Regular check-ups and blood tests with your veterinarian can also help to detect kidney and liver disease early on.

Dental Disease

Regular dental care is essential to preventing dental disease. Brush your dog's teeth regularly, and provide dental chews or toys to help keep teeth clean. A diet formulated to promote oral health is also beneficial. Feeding your dog a diet that is formulated for oral health and limit giving human food or table scraps can also help.

By taking preventative measures, we can help our senior dogs to live long, healthy lives. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and appropriate testing can help to identify potential health problems early on, and allow for prompt treatment. With the right care, our senior dogs can continue to be our loyal and loving companions for many years to come.