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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
Caring for an older dog is about keeping them comfortable, mobile and happy. Start preparing before your dog is officially senior: keep up yearly check-ups, adjust food and exercise as they slow down, look after their teeth, and support their joints, immune system and heart early.
When is a dog a senior?
It depends on size and breed. Large breeds age faster, while small dogs often stay young for longer. You'll often read that dogs are senior from 8, but in my opinion, 8 isn't senior for most dogs. I see it as the time to start preparing for the senior years, which for many dogs begin around 10 or 11.
1. Keep up regular check-ups
Regular vet check-ups help catch problems early, before they become harder to treat. Ask your vet about blood tests to track how the organs are doing over time. A hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) can also show whether your dog's minerals are in balance.
I take BeanBean for a check-up once a year. As dogs get older, or if anything changes, your vet may suggest going more often.
2. Watch their appetite
A dog's sense of smell can fade with age, which can make food less tempting. But eating less can also be a sign that something else is wrong, such as sore teeth or an illness. If your dog's appetite drops, check with your vet.
3. Balance food, exercise and water
Older dogs often slow down. If they keep eating the same amount, they can gain weight, which puts more strain on their joints and heart. Adjust their portions as their activity changes. Read more in helping your dog reach a healthy weight.
Keep them moving, too. Gentle, regular walks help keep muscles strong, which supports the joints. Read why strong muscles matter as much as joints.
Notice how much your dog drinks. Drinking much more or much less than usual can be an early sign of illness, so mention it to your vet.
A fresh, whole-food diet can be adjusted as your dog's needs change. If you'd like help, PawNutrition gives you a feeding framework tailored to your dog.
4. Look after their teeth
Dental care matters even more as dogs age. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart and other organs. Brush regularly, check the mouth often, and ask your vet about professional cleaning if needed. Read brushing your dog's teeth and my 5-step routine for cleaner teeth.
5. Support them before problems start
I don't wait for problems to show up. Supporting the joints, immune system and heart early can help your dog age more comfortably.
Joints
Herbal blends like Voltrex and Lumbrex support the joints and spine. See the full joint support collection and natural arthritis support.
Immune system
Medicinal mushrooms like maitake and turkey tail, or a blend like Four Leaf Rover Seven Shrooms, plus colostrum and bone broth.
Heart
Gentle heart support, such as Animal Essentials Heart Health, can be started before problems show up. Your yearly check-up will tell you if anything needs adjusting.
Antioxidants
Phytoplankton like Adored Beast Phyto Synergy helps fight the oxidative stress that comes with ageing. Read more in antioxidants for dogs and cats.
Brain
Keep your dog's mind active with games and new experiences. Read brain games for senior dogs and coconut oil and the ageing brain.
Every dog is different, so start low and add one thing at a time. If you're not sure where to begin, book a PawConsult.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
BeanBean is 8 now. I don't think of her as a senior yet, but I'm already preparing her for when she reaches 10 or 11.
I actually walk her slightly more now, and I'm giving her more support for her immune system and joints. She has Voltrex and Lumbrex every now and then, mushrooms like maitake and turkey tail, colostrum and bone broth. I've also started supporting her heart.
She has a check-up every year, and I'll adjust things if it shows anything.
6. Keep them comfortable at home
Small changes at home can make a big difference to an older dog's comfort and confidence:
✓ Non-slip mats or rugs on smooth floors, to prevent slips
✓ A supportive harness to help with stairs, getting up, or getting in and out of the car
✓ Ramps for sofas, beds, stairs and the car, so they don't have to jump
✓ A supportive bed in a quiet spot. Supportive, not too soft, so it's easy for them to get up.
Keep an eye on how your dog moves and behaves. If they seem stiff, slower, or less like themselves, talk to your vet early.
Frequently asked questions
What age is a dog considered senior?
It depends on size and breed. Large breeds age faster. Many sources say 8, but I see 8 as the time to start preparing, with the senior years beginning around 10 or 11 for many dogs.
How often should a senior dog see the vet?
At least once a year. Your vet may suggest more frequent check-ups as your dog gets older or if they have health issues.
Should I change my older dog's diet?
Usually, yes. Older dogs often need fewer calories but still need high-quality protein to keep their muscles strong. Adjust as their activity, weight and health change.
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This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
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