Senior Dogs – Understanding and Supporting the Aging Process

DOGLi
Aug 28
5 min read

This blog post is a guest contribution by the wonderful Martina Flocken from Doggy Fitness.

Martina is a certified canine physiotherapist, phytotherapist, and mycotherapist, as well as a lecturer and published author. She's a true expert when it comes to healthy movement and targeted physical training for dogs.

Thank you so much, Martina, for sharing your expertise with us!

When Dogs Grow Older – And We Barely Notice at First

Often the signs are subtle. One day, your lively young dog seems a little calmer, a little more settled. The muzzle may be turning grey, and there's a quiet gentleness to their demeanor. The first signs of aging – and a shift into a new life phase – often go unnoticed. But slowly, more changes appear. Movement becomes harder. Getting up after lying down or climbing stairs becomes a challenge. Your dog may wobble a little when lifting a leg, seem slightly unsteady or uncoordinated. Walks become shorter or slower.

Have you noticed any of this in your own dog? What does aging actually mean for our dogs? Why do these changes happen – and what do senior dogs need to stay mobile and happy?

An old dog is running happily across a meadow

Aging is Individual – When is a Dog Actually Old?

This question doesn’t have a clear-cut answer. While we often look for specific markers to make things easier to understand, aging isn’t something you can categorize neatly. In my work as a therapist, I constantly see how differently dogs age. Some are sprightly at 14, while others show signs of physical decline by age 8.

What’s clear is this: aging is a process, not a single moment. And the earlier we begin to support that process, the more quality of life we can offer our senior dogs.

What Influences the Aging Process in Dogs?

How quickly a dog ages depends on many factors. Breed and size play a major role – large breeds tend to age faster than small ones. But there are other influences too: genetics, living conditions, nutrition, exercise, and overall health all shape how a dog ages.

The good news? Some of these factors are within our control. Dogs that enjoy regular healthy exercise, mental enrichment, and a balanced diet have a better chance of aging more slowly and staying fit longer.

On the flip side, pre-existing health issues – especially chronic pain, joint problems, or internal organ conditions – can accelerate the aging process. That’s why early observation, individual support, and preventive care are so important.

When the Musculoskeletal System Ages

The physical signs of aging are often visible in the musculoskeletal system. Joints, tendons, muscles, and connective tissue change – and the speed and severity vary by dog. Muscle mass decreases, joints become stiffer, nerve function and motor control decline. Many dogs move less fluidly, become more unsure on their feet, or slip more often. All of this affects mobility, flexibility, and even behavior.

Common warning signs include:

- Difficulty getting up

- Hesitation or insecurity on stairs

- Shortened stride or stiff gait

- Restlessness before settling down

- Reluctance or awkwardness when jumping

- Excessive licking of joints

- A preference for shorter walks

These signs should not be dismissed. It’s often unclear whether the body is simply slowing down or if pain is involved. Sadly, many senior dogs suffer silently – their symptoms dismissed as "just old age." This phenomenon is called "silent pain." It's important to observe closely, seek veterinary evaluation, and take action if pain or musculoskeletal issues are present. Later in this article, I’ll share more tips on what to do.

How Much Exercise is Right for Senior Dogs?

One of the most common questions I hear: “How much movement is still good for my senior dog?”

The answer: Movement remains essential – but it must be tailored to your dog’s individual condition.

Short, gentle walks several times a day are better than one long outing. Pay attention to pace and body language. If your dog shows signs of fatigue, take a break. Walks should end before your dog begins to lag behind or limp.

It’s not about distance or performance – it’s about preserving mobility, sharing joyful experiences, and meeting your dog where they’re at.

Targeted physical exercises are especially helpful. These can maintain or improve mobility, slow joint and spine degeneration, relieve discomfort, and even delay aging. Examples include:

- Isometric strengthening

- Gentle muscle and flexibility training (e.g. cavaletti exercises)

- Light stretching

- Coordination and body awareness exercises

How to Slow the Aging Process in Dogs

Movement training is a key pillar in supporting aging – but there’s more you can do:

- Maintain a healthy weight: Even a few extra pounds can strain joints, organs, and the heart. Overweight dogs age faster and live shorter lives.

- Avoid strain and injury: Adapt activities to your dog’s health status. Avoid rough games like fetch with sudden stops or wild romping. Try sniffing games or relaxed walks instead.

- Prioritize good nutrition: Throughout life, diet fuels vitality. In senior years, high-quality, easily digestible food remains crucial.

- Use targeted supplements: Herbs or medicinal mushrooms can support joints, nerves, immunity, and organ health – tailored to your dog’s needs. Internally nourishing the body can ease pain, support detox, reduce inflammation, and protect organ function.

- Support the brain: The brain ages too. Nose work, puzzle games, and mini training tasks help mental sharpness – especially important for dogs with early cognitive decline. As always, the earlier you begin, the better.

Small Changes, Big Impact – Everyday Tips for Senior Dogs

Aging is a gradual process – we can’t stop it, but we can support it.

Simple adjustments can make daily life easier for your older dog:

- Stairs: Use lifting aids or ramps

- Slippery floors: Add rugs or runners for better traction

- Joint support: Consider orthopedic beds for restful, pain-free sleep

- Rest: Seniors need more downtime – let them rest and recover

- Car travel: A car ramp can make getting in and out easier

And don’t forget: predictability helps. Older dogs benefit from routines. Clear structure helps them feel safe, especially as senses and cognition decline.

Why Regular Geriatric Check-Ups Matter

I often hear: “He’s just getting old.” But not every change is normal.

As mentioned above, silent pain and hidden illness can go unnoticed if we attribute all changes to aging. Regular vet check-ups help detect issues early – including heart disease, organ problems, or tumors – long before symptoms show. I recommend two geriatric screenings per year.

Aging Is a Life Stage Worth Supporting

Getting older isn’t a single event – it’s a meaningful life stage we can shape with knowledge, empathy, and attention.

It’s not always easy. But as my own dog Tessa has grown older, I’ve found our bond deepening. I cherish the slower moments, the quiet connection, and the shared trust.

Aging is an invitation to care.

With love, Martina