Senior dogs: signs of aging and what to feed

Short answer: older dogs slow down, sleep differently and often need a little less food, but age is not a disease. Many changes that look like old age can be pain or illness that your vet can help with. The next step is simple: book a regular check-up, and call your vet about anything that is new, including changes in weight, appetite, sleep or movement. Any change in what your dog eats is best talked through with your vet first.

Common signs of aging

Vets class a dog as senior at different ages, depending on size. Larger dogs tend to start slowing down earlier than small ones. These are the changes most families notice:

Slower and stiffer. Your dog may take longer to get up, hesitate on stairs, avoid slippery floors, or be less keen to jump into the car. Some slowing is normal. Stiffness and reluctance to move can also be a sign of pain, so mention it to your vet. Our guide to pain and limping explains what to look for.

Different sleep. Older dogs often rest more. A change in sleep pattern, such as restless nights, is worth a call. Our guide on why dogs sleep so much can help you tell what is usual.

Hearing and sight. Your dog may seem to ignore you or get startled more easily. That can be hearing loss, so your vet can check. Walk up where your dog can see you, and avoid sudden loud noises.

Weight changes. Many older dogs use less energy and put on weight. Some lose weight instead. Either one is worth mentioning to your vet, because it can have a medical cause.

Teeth and mouth. Bad breath, sore-looking gums or trouble eating are common in older dogs. Your vet can check, and our dental care basics has gentle first steps.

Confusion or accidents. Some older dogs seem lost in familiar places, forget training, pace, or wake and wander at night. They may also start toileting indoors. Please be kind and do not scold. These signs can have medical causes, and your vet can talk through what could help.

What to feed an older dog

There is no single best food for every senior dog. Many older dogs need fewer calories because they move less, and some do well on a diet made for seniors. Your vet can tell you if and when a change makes sense for your dog, and what suits their weight, teeth and health.

If your vet suggests a new food, change over gradually to avoid an upset stomach. Weigh your dog every month or two and tell your vet if the number keeps going up or down. Extra weight puts more strain on stiff joints, and a vet can help with a feeding and exercise plan.

Fresh water should always be within easy reach. If you have more than one dog, make sure your older dog can eat in peace without competing for food. Changes in how much your dog eats or drinks are worth a quick call.

Making home easier

Small changes help. A soft bed away from draughts, rugs on slippery floors, and food, water and bed close together all make life easier. A ramp can help with the car or the sofa. Keep walks gentle, short and regular, and let your dog set the pace.

When to call your vet

Take a breath. Most changes are a reason for a check, not for alarm. Please call your vet about weight loss, a clear change in appetite or thirst, new accidents, stiffness, trouble eating, or a change in behaviour or night-time routine. Regular check-ups matter too, because problems found early are easier to help. If your dog seems very unwell, an emergency vet can help, and our guide to symptoms that mean call a vet lists the signs.

Sources: RSPCA, caring for older dogs: rspca.org.uk. Blue Cross, caring for older dogs: bluecross.org.uk. AVMA, caring for senior cats and dogs: avma.org. VCA Animal Hospitals, senior dog care: vcahospitals.com. VCA Animal Hospitals, recognizing pain in aging dogs: vcahospitals.com. PDSA, dementia in pets: pdsa.org.uk.

General education only, not veterinary advice or a plan for your individual dog. If you are worried about your dog, please contact a vet. See our legal page.