5 Great Ways to Keep Your Dog Youthful and Agile

Dogs are known for their youthful energy and playful personalities. However, as dogs age, they may start to slow down and lose some of that vitality. This can be frustrating for both the dog and the owner; above all else, we don’t like to see our canine friends getting older. Luckily, there are many things you can do to keep your dog young and agile well into old age. 

A Healthy Diet Underpins Everything 

As with people, a dog’s diet is crucial to its overall health and wellbeing. As your dog ages, their nutritional needs will change and it’s important to adjust their diet accordingly. Older dogs need fewer calories and more fibre to help them maintain a healthy weight and prevent constipation. They also need more protein to help them maintain muscle mass and keep their coat healthy.

Make sure you talk to your vet about the best diet for your aging dog. They will be able to advise you on the best food to keep your dog healthy and happy as they age with tailored advice (taking into account any health issues).

Get Them Moving

Exercise is just as important for older dogs as it is for younger ones; it helps to keep their minds active and their bodies strong. As owners, we tend to become complacent and think that they should slow down as they get older. In reality, we need to keep them active, especially when they suffer from arthritis and other health problems.

There are plenty of ways to exercise your dog, even if they are not as agile as they used to be. Going for shorter walks more often is a great way to get them moving, and there are also some fun games you can play indoors. For example, try hiding treats around the house and getting them to search for them, or set up an obstacle course in your garden.

Keep Their Minds Sharp

As mentioned, it’s not all about physical fitness – we also need to keep our dogs’ minds active as they age. Dogs love to use their noses, so scent games are always a hit. You could also try teaching them some new tricks, or even just playing simple games like fetch. According to one study, dogs who engage in activities that stimulate their brains have a significantly lower risk of developing cognitive problems as they age.

Offer Supplements 

There are many supplements on the market that can help to keep your dog feeling young. Fish oils, for example, are great for maintaining a healthy coat, while glucosamine can help to keep their joints healthy. Antioxidants are also important for dogs of all ages, as they help to protect against cell damage.

Make sure you speak to your vet before giving your dog any supplements, as they will be able to advise on the best options. Dog joint supplements from Zamipet are a good option for keeping your pet healthy and agile, and you can watch your canine friend stay happy for a long time to come. 

Visit the Vet for Checks 

Last but not least, it’s important to visit the vet regularly for check-ups. This is so that any health problems can be caught early and treated effectively. Your vet will also be able to give you advice on how to keep your dog healthy as they age. Like taking your car to the garage or visiting a dentist, it’s important to keep on top of your dog’s health to avoid any problems in the future.