Sometimes, it’s hard to accept when we start to see the signs of age creeping up on our pups. Their coats may not be as shiny. Little gray hairs start to pepper their muzzles. They may sleep a little more and bounce around a little less. But helping our beloved dogs through their golden years is part of our responsibility as good pet parents. We can make their last years as excellent as their first with these 5 tips on caring for elderly dogs:

1. Meet Their Dietary Needs
As our dogs age, they may need an easier-to-digest food with more nutrients. Talk with your veterinarian about whether or not you need to switch to a senior food that is specifically formulated for older animals. Make sure you follow feeding instructions carefully. Many elderly dogs need the added nutrition, but because they’re less active they’re also apt to gain weight. Being overweight can lead to additional health problems, so it’s important to feed only what they truly need to stay healthy.

2. Maintain an Appropriate Exercise Routine
Speaking of managing weight, elderly dogs need exercise just as much as their younger counterparts. Movement is crucial to mental and physical health in dogs of all ages, but what that exercise looks like at different stages of life will vary.
While seniors don’t need intense rounds of physical activity, they do need regular, slow-and-steady sessions of movement. Switch out long runs or hikes for shorter, more relaxed walks.

3. Keep Your House Senior-Friendly
Your elderly dog may not be able to jump or move quite like she used to. Make sure she has a comfortable place on the ground to rest (especially if she used to jump up on raised areas to sleep). Be ready to assist your dog in and out of vehicles and up and down stairs. If incontinence becomes a problem, use baby gates to create a safe space for your pup and consider investing in puppy pads.

4. Understand Common Warning Signs
As your pup ages into a senior, you may need to start keeping a closer eye on his behavior. If he’s acting strangely or out of character, it may be an indication of a physical health problem – and yes, dogs can become senile just like people.
Some common signs of an underlying health issue include: loss of appetite, increased thirst and need to urinate, listlessness, difficulty breathing, and poor coat condition.

5. Plan on More Vet Visits
You elderly dog may need to see the vet on a regular basis now that he’s older and is more prone to health problems. His vaccination needs may change and his age may cause issues that a vet can catch before they develop into serious, costly problems.