Although we would like to see our dogs live at least as much as we do, unfortunately, this is different from how things are in reality. Dogs have a much shorter life span than humans, so we need to be prepared for everything when we decide to get a dog. This also means to ensure a comfortable life in its senior years and get ready to part when the moment comes.

Companionship dogs give us everything they can, so the best we can do is alleviate old age's discomforts. Precisely because a dog's life is so short, we should do our best to give our companions the chance to enjoy a happy and fulfilling life. How do you spend the golden years with your dog in the best way possible? Below you will find valuable advice below to help you both enjoy this period.

Make sure that your dog has an adequate level of exercising
Even if senior dogs move slower and don't have the same energy level, you should still ensure they enjoy proper exercise. Still, moderation is vital, as too much can trigger health problems, and too little will weaken the dog's muscles. Thus, if your dog used to run alongside your bike, you will have to settle for calm walks.

Daily walks will keep the dog strong in its senior years, positively impact its appetite, and prevent it from gaining too much weight. The lack of physical activity in old dogs can lead to obesity, putting a lot of strain on their already weakened joints.

Protect your dog against the weather.

Dogs are rather sturdy creatures that are capable of managing the weather in all of its forms. But as they age, their ability to stay safe when the temperature goes bad decreases. This is when you, the owner, step in. Offer your dog adequate protection against weather extremes during its golden years.

When the weather outside is cold, use protective clothing. An adequate level of warmth will soothe its aching muscles and joints. Even indoors, you could offer it a warm blanket or a back coat. If it freezes, you should also consider getting your dog a pair of special shoes to protect its paws.

When temperatures get high in the summer, you should be prepared to help your dog cool down. There are unique beds and pet clothes that will help your dog lower its body temperature. A small kids' pool can also do the trick, allowing it to cool down in a fun manner. Using a hose and wetting your dog will help as well. Still, it is worth remembering that you should water its belly and groin area. Getting its coat wet will not help. On the contrary, this may get your dog even warmer. And, of course, make sure it has plenty of fresh water around the clock.

Use unique buckles when traveling by car.

It doesn't matter if you're going on a short or long trip, as your dog should always be properly secured. It is much easier for a senior dog to get injured, as its body is more fragile and heals harder. Thus, falling between the car's seats when you use the brakes abruptly can cause serious injuries. Avoid this by using unique pet buckles each time you drive with your dog.

Offer your dog a more comfortable bed.

You're probably used to seeing your dog sleep in the weirdest positions and on any surface. As it ages, sleeping on hard surfaces will become less and less comfortable. This is because its joints suffer from wear and tear, and its muscles are no longer in such great shape. Not to mention that cold and hard surfaces are not helping the dog relax either.

When your dog shows signs of old age or appears to seek soft and warm spots to nap, it is time to consider a better dog bed. A wide range of orthopedic dog beds is thicker than regular beds in pet stores. Offer your senior dog a bed like this paired with a warm blanket, and resting time will definitely be improved.

Pay attention to its diet and offer it proper supplements.

It may be hard to believe your dog is old already, so you may avoid senior dog food assortments. Still, to prevent weight-related health problems, you should pay more attention to your dog's diet. Also, have it checked by a vet and ask for the kind of supplements a dog of its age could benefit from. A bit of extra attention will keep your dog's health in great shape for as long as it is possible.

Taking good care of our dogs in their golden years is a way for us to thank them for all the happiness, love, and loyalty they provided for all this time. If you want to purchase a small pup companion who has been taken care of and is certified, find a place where you can get one from here.