It’s no surprise that dogs’ needs, like humans’, evolve with age. As a loving pawrent, you’ll want to treat your beloved pet to the best possible care throughout each distinct stage of their life. But what does your senior dog actually need, and how can you help? Here we detail the top 5 ways to keep your aging furbaby safe, happy, and healthy! 

1. Make Them Comfortable

Senior dogs want to be as comfortable as possible, so try pampering your pooch with:

• Bedding designed for extra support
• Cozy booties or protective wax for sensitive paws
• Supplements to manage joint discomfort (ask your vet for recommendations)
• Daily stretching or massages to relieve pain

If you’re not sure whether your furry friend is experiencing discomfort throughout the day, use your Furbo 360° Dog Camera to figure it out! Notice how your dog typically moves, and pay special attention to any signs of joint stiffness or paw pain. 

2. Senior-Proof Your House

As your dog ages, they may have trouble navigating formerly pet-friendly parts of your home. To lend a helping hand, try adding:

• Portable pet ramps or steps next to the bed, sofa, or car, so older dogs won’t hurt themselves by jumping
• Non-slip rugs or thin yoga mats to reduce the risk of falls, which are a common source of injury for senior dogs
• Elevated food and water bowls, to avoid exacerbating neck or joint issues
• Baby gates at the top of steep flights of stairs to avoid falls
• Chew toys specifically designed to protect senior dogs’ sensitive teeth and gums 

But what if your senior dog still manages to find trouble while you’re out? With Furbo 360° Dog Camera’s Auto Dog Tracking feature and real-time Smart Alerts, including a Chewing Alert and an Excessive Barking Alert, you can hurry to the rescue right away. You’ll get notifications if your furry best friend is howling for help, taking a tumble, or chewing on something that could cause health problems.

3. Encourage Light Exercise

While their physical abilities may be limited, older dogs do benefit from regular light exercise. Keep them active with non-strenuous activities like:

• Taking moderately paced walks in comfortable temperatures
• Swimming in calm, temperate water, always under your watchful eye
• Playing gentle games of fetch with a rolled or bouncing ball
• Performing strength and flexibility exercises

Be sure to avoid overdoing it, though. Pay close attention to your dog’s reactions, so you’ll know exactly when it’s time to stop! Not sure whether you’ve gone too far…or not far enough? When you check on your dog with your Furbo 360° Dog Camera, keep an eye out for signs of exhaustion or excess energy. If you notice that your dog is significantly more lethargic or more restless than usual, you haven’t found the right balance yet.

4. Provide Mental Stimulation

Mentally stimulated dogs are happier and better-behaved, no matter how old they are. Here are some enrichment ideas to keep your furry friend’s mind sharp:

• Buy interactive puzzle toys, or make your own
• Provide novelty by offering different toys, or varying your daily walk routes 
• Use the television or music as a source of new sights and sounds 
• Create a scavenger hunt by hiding treats and toys around the house

Alternatively, set out to prove that you can teach an old dog new tricks! With Furbo’s 360° Dog Camera’s Real-Time Audio and treat tossing features, you can fit in a quick training session even when you’re not home.

5. Visit the Vet

Dogs become more prone to health issues as they age, so schedule regular check-ups to catch any problems early on. And don’t hesitate to make an extra visit if you notice any of these warning signs:

• Mobility changes. If your dog is suddenly reluctant to move in a certain way, they may be experiencing pain or joint stiffness.
• Nighttime activity. Is your dog shifting more frequently in their sleep, or waking up overnight? Pain or discomfort could be stopping them from sleeping enough.
• New behaviors. Increased or unprecedented panting, pacing, or vocalization might indicate that your senior dog is developing anxiety or dementia.
• Toilet accidents. If your perfectly potty-trained pup is suddenly having accidents indoors, gastrointestinal issues could be to blame.
• Loss of appetite. Healthy dogs are champions at gobbling down their food! If your precious pet skips more than one meal, a vet should immediately check for dental or periodontal problems, or a serious illness.
• Respiratory distress. Labored breathing — or any other changes in breathing ability — could be a sign of lung, throat, or mouth problems, and requires medical attention right away.

Wondering whether your dog is showing worrisome symptoms while you’re not home? Furbo 360° Dog Camera is here to help. With real-time Potty Alerts, Dog Activity Alerts, and Excessive Barking Alerts sending push notifications to your smartphone, plus high-definition footage of your older dog’s entire day, you’ll never miss a warning sign. 

While you’re busy stocking up on special treats, planning activities, and keeping an eye out for symptoms, don’t forget the magic ingredient: lots and lots of love. Senior dogs can get disoriented or anxious, experience distressing physical symptoms, or feel guilty about accidents beyond their control. Be patient with your pet, and give them extra attention and praise. With Furbo 360° Dog Camera's Real-Time 2-Way Audio and treat tossing features, you can provide plenty of affection and reassurance even when you’re not home.

Senior dogs make wonderful pets — and, if you take the right steps, you can ensure they feel comfortable, happy, and loved throughout their sunset years.