Caring for an Ageing Dog: A UK Owner's Guide

Small, practical adjustments can make a big difference to your senior dog's comfort and quality of life.

Vet check-ups

Most UK vets recommend moving from annual to twice-yearly check-ups once a dog reaches its senior years, since conditions like arthritis, dental disease and organ changes progress faster in older dogs and are easier to manage when caught early. Some practices offer senior health screening packages that include bloodwork — worth asking about at your dog's next appointment.

Parasite protection

Flea, tick and worm treatment is easy to let slip once the routine of puppyhood wears off, but it matters just as much for older dogs — an untreated infestation can worsen existing health issues, and can be harder to spot if your dog's mobility or grooming habits have changed. A regular, scheduled treatment plan takes the guesswork out of remembering doses and renewal dates. See our full flea, tick and worm treatment guide for how each risk works and how to choose between products.

Diet and weight

Older dogs are typically less active, so calorie needs often drop — but their nutritional needs don't simply shrink at the same rate. Many senior-specific dog foods are formulated with adjusted protein, fat and joint-support ingredients (like glucosamine and omega-3s) to reflect this. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is one of the most impactful things you can do, since excess weight significantly worsens joint pain and puts extra strain on the heart.

Exercise

Older dogs still need regular exercise — it's just as important for maintaining muscle mass, joint mobility and mental wellbeing as it was when they were younger. The difference is intensity and duration: shorter, more frequent walks are often better tolerated than one long walk, and low-impact activities like swimming (hydrotherapy is increasingly available at UK veterinary physio centres) can be gentler on ageing joints.

Home adjustments

• Non-slip flooring or rugs on slippery surfaces like laminate or tile, which can be difficult for dogs with reduced joint stability.
• Ramps or steps for sofas, cars, and beds — particularly important for breeds prone to spinal issues, like Dachshunds.
• Orthopaedic bedding to support joints during rest, which makes up a large part of an older dog's day.
• Raised food and water bowls can be more comfortable for dogs with neck or back stiffness.

Mental stimulation

Cognitive decline is common in older dogs, and mental engagement appears to help — puzzle feeders, gentle training refreshers, and varied sniffing opportunities on walks all provide stimulation without demanding the physical intensity of a young dog's play.

Watching for changes

Keep an eye out for the early signs of ageing-related changes covered in our signs your dog is a senior guide, and know when something warrants a prompt vet visit rather than waiting for the next scheduled check-up — see when to take your senior dog to the vet.

Related reading: Do You Need Pet Insurance for an Older Dog? · Signs Your Dog Is Entering Its Senior Years · Flea, Tick and Worm Treatment for Dogs · All guides