Playing With An Older Dog

Do you have a four-legged, barking senior on your hands (or on the couch)? Fido will always be adorable. In fact, he seems to get cuter as he gets older. While he may not be as active or frisky as he once was, he will undoubtedly have moments when he wants to channel his inner puppy. Older dogs still like playing, and it is actually beneficial to them. There are a few things you should bear in mind. This article from a Easley, SC veterinarian describes playing with an aging canine companion.

Why Is It Beneficial to Play With Older Dogs?

Playing is beneficial to Fido in various ways. For starters, it’s a terrific way to relieve boredom. Play can also provide physical activity.

Another reason for playing is that it provides enrichment and cerebral stimulation. These are both important. Dogs, like people, can experience cognitive impairment in their golden years. Puzzle toys and scavenger hunts help stimulate Fido’s cognitive abilities. This can help prevent cognitive deterioration.

Fido also benefits from the consistency of regular playtime. Many of our animal pals feel most secure when they are kept on a regular routine. 

This is a great way to show your pet how much you love them. Plus,  it’s simply enjoyable for both you and your dog, and it’s a great way to get that cute tail going.

Why Do Senior Dogs Stop Playing with Toys?

Fido, like everyone else, will slow down over time. He may be less interested in toys than he was previously. However, while your pet may now favor puzzle toys and has most likely outgrown the need to chew, he should still be interested in new toys.

Dental problems are extremely common in elderly dogs. Because Fido plays with his mouth, these concerns can significantly disrupt his favorite games. Keep an eye out for any warning symptoms. These include foul breath, drooling, puffiness, tartar accumulation, and bleeding gums. Your canine companion may also appear depressed. If you detect anything wrong, call your Easley, SC veterinarian straight away.

Can Senior Dogs Become Bored?

Yes, absolutely! Boredom is even worse for Fido than you may think. It can cause anxiety and depression, which is not something you want your beloved pet to experience in his golden years.

Keep this in mind if your dog is home alone while his owners go to work or school. Simply turning on the radio for Fido might provide stimulation and comfort. Playing with your animal friend before you leave for the day can also assist.

Dog TV doesn’t technically count as playing, but it can be a terrific source of pleasure for Fido while he’s at home alone.

At What Age Do Dogs Stop Playing?

Many dogs never stop playing, while others run out of gas by age three, and opt for a couch-potato lifestyle instead. You may also note that Fido only plays in brief bursts, rather than spending hours gnawing on chew toys or romping around. That’s just fine! Just pay attention to sharp declines in activity levels, as that may signify medical issues.

What Games and Toys Are Suitable For Older Dogs?

Fido’s play preferences will shift with time. As your dog grows older, you should gradually reduce the number of games and activities that physically burden him and instead focus on those that provide him with mental stimulation.

You may find that your canine buddy begins to prefer softer toys because they are gentler on his tongue. If Fido has visual or hearing problems, he might enjoy playing with toys that light up or create noise.

There are plenty of entertaining games available. Many are simple and take little time to complete.

Place snacks in a blanket and knot it up, or give Fido a Kong toy filled with yummy broth, plain yogurt, kibble, or peanut butter.

1. Toys that dispense treats
2. Scavenger hunts
3. Hide & Seek
4. The Three Cups game, dog version (place a goodie beneath one of the three cups)
5. Puzzle boards
6. Sniffing walks

Ask your Easley, SC veterinarian for further recommendations.

What Should I Know About Playing With a Senior Dog?

Fido, like all of us, will go through changes as he ages. This will affect every area of his care, from his diet to his play and exercise requirements.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Always play with Fido in a safe environment. Pick something with a soft surface, such as a grassy lawn or a carpeted room. This will provide your pet traction and provide some cushioning if he falls.
• Be mindful of overexertion. Your puppy’s muscles will be weaker than they were before. He won’t have the same stamina and may lack coordination. Fido is incredibly loyal. If he believes that it’s what you want, he will work himself to exhaustion.
• Never encourage an elderly dog to jump or stand on his hind legs. If your pet has or is at risk of hip dysplasia, this could worsen the situation.
• Older canines, like humans, might have eyesight trouble. This can make visually-oriented games like Fetch more difficult for them.
• Many senior dogs suffer from dental trouble, making chewing and pulling more difficult.
• If your pet follows a specific diet, too many treats may irritate his stomach. You should also take care not to overfeed your canine companion.
• Moving around can be challenging due to arthritic joint pain.
• Fido may also suffer from hearing loss, making it difficult for him to hear commands or squeakers.
• Older dogs have more brittle bones, making them more susceptible to injury.
• Senior dogs are prone to forgetfulness and confusion, which can make more sophisticated games frustrating.

Finally, don’t consider doggy playing a chore. Cherish this special moment with your canine companion. We adore seeing aged dogs wagging their tails!

Visit Your Easley, SC Animal Clinic

Do you have a question about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Easley, SC pet hospital, now!