A natural part of life, dogs can start to slow down as they get older – and as owners, its important to help them adapt by keeping them well nourished, properly exercised, and mentally stimulated.
Things like moving at a slower pace or spending more time resting can necessitate changes to their diet and physical activity, enabling them to continue living their best lives without putting too much strain on older joints.
SoGlos chats to the experts at Gloucestershire-based pet food producer, Cotswold RAW, about the signs of ageing, how their bodies can change, and the adjustments owners can make to keep them happy and healthy.
When do most dogs reach their peak fitness, and when might they start to slow down?
Most dogs reach their physical peak in early adulthood, generally between two and five years old, and may begin to slow gradually from around six to eight years onwards. However, this varies considerably depending on breed, genetics, and overall health, with larger breeds typically ageing sooner than smaller breeds.
What are the most common signs of ageing in dogs?
As dogs get older, it’s natural to see changes such as slightly lower energy levels, a little more stiffness, increased time spent resting, and greying around the muzzle. Their hearing and vision may also gradually decline. Behaviourally, some dogs become calmer and more content with a slower pace, although many retain their playful, puppy-like personalities well into their later years.
What happens to dogs physiologically as they get older?
As dogs age, a number of gradual physiological changes take place. Their ability to digest and absorb nutrients can become less efficient, partly due to changes within the digestive system and the gut microbiome. This makes a highly digestible, nutrient-rich diet particularly important for older dogs.
Ageing can also lead to a gradual loss of muscle mass and strength, known as sarcopenia. This can be difficult to spot, as dogs may lose muscle while gaining body fat, meaning their overall body condition may not appear to change significantly. Providing sufficient, high-quality protein is therefore important for helping to maintain lean muscle mass and strength as dogs get older.
What about their eating habits – should owners be concerned about dogs eating less as they get older?
As dogs age, their energy requirements often decrease, so it’s natural for some to eat slightly less. Maintaining a healthy weight becomes increasingly important, as carrying excess weight can put additional strain on ageing joints and overall health.
A highly digestible, nutrient-rich diet can help ensure they still get the nutrition they need. However, a sudden change in appetite, or rapid weight loss or gain should always be discussed with a vet.
What changes should owners be making to dogs’ lifestyles as they age?
As dogs age, it’s about adapting their lifestyle rather than simply reducing their activity. Shorter, regular walks can help maintain mobility, muscle strength, and mental stimulation without putting too much strain on their joints. Keeping them at a healthy weight and allowing plenty of rest can also help them stay comfortable, mobile, and energetic day-to-day.
How can owners manage their dog's diet?
Good nutrition remains important throughout a dog’s life, but their nutritional needs can change as they get older. Protein remains particularly important as dogs age, as it helps support muscle mass and strength. Unless a specific health condition requires dietary changes, maintaining good-quality protein in their diet is an important part of supporting healthy ageing. Additional fibre can also support healthy digestion, while omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can provide additional support for ageing dogs.
Cotswold RAW’s 80/20 range is suitable for most dogs throughout their life, including into their senior years. For older dogs who may benefit from a more tailored approach, Cotswold RAW’s 70/30 range offers a lower energy density to reflect their changing requirements, while still providing plenty of fresh protein, additional vegetables to support digestion, and added joint care to support mobility and flexibility.
To browse the full range of products available from Cotswold RAW, or to read its blog containing health, wellbeing and nutrition advice, visit cotswoldraw.com.
