They may have a few more grey hairs around the muzzle. They might not sprint quite as fast as they used to. But they're still the same loyal companion they've always been. 

Dogs are living longer than ever, and that's something to celebrate. As they reach their senior years, though, their bodies and nutritional needs begin to change. The good news is that with proactive healthcare, the right nutrition and a little extra support, many older dogs can continue to enjoy an active, comfortable and fulfilling life. 

Here's what every owner should know about caring for a senior dog.

As dogs get older, routine vet care becomes one of the most valuable tools for protecting their health. 

While younger, healthy dogs often visit the vet every year, senior dogs generally benefit from a health check every six months. These more frequent appointments can help detect age-related conditions before they become more serious or begin affecting your dog's quality of life. 

Your vet will often be looking for common conditions like arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease and signs of cognitive decline. Catching these problems early often means treatment or lifestyle changes can begin sooner, helping your dog stay comfortable for longer. 

Alongside these routine examinations, it's important to stay up to date with vaccinations, parasite prevention and dental care. Good oral health becomes even more important as dogs age, as dental disease can cause pain and affect eating habits. 

Between appointments, keep an eye on your dog's coat, skin, body weight and behaviour. Even small changes, like sleeping more than usual, slowing down on walks, drinking more water or losing interest in food, are worth mentioning to your vet. 

One of the biggest changes many dogs experience as they get older is a shift in their nutritional needs. 

Senior dogs often become less active, while their digestive system and metabolism may also change. For many dogs, transitioning gradually to a high-quality senior food can help support these changing needs. 

If you're changing foods, take your time. A gradual transition over seven to ten days helps reduce the risk of digestive upset. One simple approach is to begin with around 10% of the new food mixed with 90% of the old food, gradually increasing the proportion of the new diet every day until the transition is complete. 

Many senior dog foods are formulated to support joint health, healthy digestion and changing energy needs. 

When choosing a food, look for one that provides high-quality protein to help maintain muscle mass, moderate fat levels to match lower activity levels, and fibre to support healthy digestion. 

Some older dogs also find dry food harder to chew, particularly if they develop dental problems. Adding a little warm water to kibble or choosing a wet food can make meals easier to eat while also increasing moisture intake, helping support hydration. 

Their menu should evolve with them.

Maintaining a healthy body weight is one of the most important things you can do for an ageing dog. 

Older dogs generally burn fewer calories than they did in their younger years, so continuing to feed the same amount can gradually lead to weight gain. Carrying extra weight places additional strain on ageing joints, the heart and other organs. 

Some senior dogs benefit from a lower-calorie diet. Feeding smaller, more frequent meals can also suit some older dogs, helping support digestion while making meals easier to manage. 

Regular weigh-ins, either at home or during vet visits, are a great way to monitor your dog's condition and make adjustments before small changes become bigger problems.

Joint stiffness is one of the most common concerns for senior dogs. 

Years of running, jumping and everyday wear and tear can eventually lead to osteoarthritis, making movement slower, stiffer or less comfortable than it once was. You may notice your dog taking longer to get up, hesitating before climbing stairs, becoming reluctant to jump into the car or tiring more quickly on walks. 

While arthritis can't be reversed, there are several ways to help support joint health and mobility. 

Many owners choose joint supplements containing ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, green-lipped mussel, MSM and omega-3 fatty acids. Although responses vary between individual dogs, these ingredients may help maintain joint function and comfort as part of a wider management plan recommended by your vet.

Good senior care isn't just about nutrition. 

Regular gentle exercise helps maintain muscle strength, supports joint mobility and keeps your dog's mind engaged. While they may not enjoy the same long hikes they once did, many senior dogs really benefit from shorter, gentler walks and opportunities to sniff and explore at their own pace. 

Providing comfortable bedding, ensuring easy access to food and water, and supporting their joints can all make a significant difference to your dog's everyday comfort.

By scheduling regular vet check-ups, feeding a diet that meets your dog's changing nutritional needs, maintaining a healthy weight and supporting joint health, you can help your dog remain comfortable, active and engaged well into their senior years.