How to Care for Your Mature Dog

Mature dogs are living a full life thanks to their loving owners, and the advanced medical care from their Veterinarian.

Some dogs are living years past their life expectancy and many dogs are taking medication for heart disease, and arthritis. If you have a mature dog, then you should follow these tips.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Veterinarian
• Holistic Mature diet food
• Adhere to special needs
• Love
• Steps

1. 
   Bailey age 12, slower footing

   Mature dogs don‘t have the same stamina as adult dogs . They’re slower and more precise with their footing. Exercise is good for them, but as an owner you need to monitor their activity.

2. Stiff joint pain and inflammation may be inflicting their limbs, back and neck. So if your dog is reluctant to be harnessed to run along you when you ride your bike, understand that it’s just not his style anymore. You should opt for another activity that the two of you can enjoy. Why not take your dog on a leisurely walk around the block, or a stroll through the dog park.

3. Your dog may be slow to fetch the ball especially when you toss it clear across the yard. He may look at you as an indication to get the ball yourself. If you want to play toss the ball, your mature dog will be happy to oblige you; your dog understands that a good game of catch is just what people do. You can still play catch, remember to throw the ball a few times, and to refrain from throwing the ball too far.

4. 
   Jerry age 11

   An mature dog may sleep a great deal during the day. They may also be the first one to climb into bed at night. They will hog your pillow, covers, and they will snore louder than your husband. Don’t worry about their excessive sleeping; they are storing up energy for the next time that they're called upon to play.

5. 
   dog steps

   Your dog will want to cuddle with you on the sofa, and go for rides in the car. They will feel more secure getting up and down from the sofa and car, by way of steps.

6. 
   Blue Senior dog food

   Special diet; Mature dogs digestive system can't absorb high fat foods. An ideal food source would include a good source of antioxidants and vitamins to maintain their immune system. L-Carnitine and Glucosamine are essential nutrients that will maintain lean muscles and to aid in the health of your dogs joints. Green tea, fruits and vegetables will fight free radicals.

Tips & Warnings

• Mature dogs still enjoy toys
• Groom your dog and brush their teeth daily
• If your dog wants to go outside, then take them immediately
• Don’t skip Veterinarians appointment

Resources

• Blue Buffalo Holistic Dog Food

[SunnyStars]

on 2/2/2009 I have a 15 year old dog, he is the sweetest and smartest dog I have ever known. Great article! 5*Stars!

[TobyLee]

on 1/9/2009 Excellent article on helping the life of an older dog. You have given good tips and I love the photos. Keep up the good work!

[NatalieEngland]

on 12/12/2008 Good to know.

[4dogday]

on 12/8/2008 Good article, thanks for the advice.

[showpup]

on 12/7/2008 Fabulous information. We have a senior dog. In her lifetime she has saved the life of a 3 yr old from drowning and me from a smoke filled home. Dogs give so much to us, if we give back even a portion of what they are willing to give of themselves, there will be a special place in heaven waiting. 5 stars