Remember the first time you brought your adorable dog home? It was probably a time when your dog was a little puppy brimming with energy and always excited to go out to the park for a run with their furry friends. But as time passed and they grew older, they became less active and were no longer as excited and full of life as they used to be. While this is not unusual, we recommend you take care of a few essential things that help keep your aging dog happy, healthy, and active.

Bridewell Hilltop Kennels proudly provides the highest quality care for pets of all ages here at their home away from home. Here are some things you can do to help your senior dog stay happy and healthy in their old years.

1.    Make Sure They Exercise Daily

As dogs get older, exercise regularly becomes even more important. This is one of the most important things you need to do to keep your older dog active.

However, it would be best if you considered taking them out for a couple of shorter walks instead of taking them for one long walk each day. Consider taking them out for a 15-to-30-minute walk at a time, depending on their age and physical fitness.

2.    Keep Them Mentally Stimulated

As a pet parent to an older dog, you not only need to ensure that your dog stays physically active, but you also need to keep them mentally active. Therefore, we suggest that you introduce them to new toys and activities.

Continue to work with your pup, and teach them new tricks, as it will help test their brain and offer mental stimulation.

3.    Continue Socialization

As your dog ages, it is important to keep them socially active. If your older dog doesn’t show any signs of anxiety or aggression, introducing them to new dogs will help keep them happy.

Take them to a park where they can play with other dogs. You can even consider leaving them at a reputable dog daycare in Novato, like Bridewell Hilltop Boarding Kennels & Cattery, where they will meet many other dogs.

4.    Give Them Your Time and Attention

No matter how old they get, they will always crave your love and attention. So, you must ensure that you give your dog as much time and attention as you did when it was a puppy. An older dog might need even more time and attention at times. The more you care for them, the healthier and happier they will age.

5.    Pay Attention to the Weather

Older dogs are far more sensitive to heat and cold than younger ones. And so, it is essential to pay attention to your dog whenever there’s a seasonal change.

For instance, make sure your dog wears a sweater or a jacket during the winter season. Similarly, you must take them for a swim or bathe them more often when the temperatures rise. Also, do not procrastinate on a vet visit if you notice any difference in your dog’s comfort when the weather changes.

If you are looking for a reputable dog daycare in Novato to take care of your older dog and to ensure that they stay active and healthy, then we at Bridewell Hilltop Boarding Kennels & Cattery would love to help.

We are one of the oldest and most trusted dog daycares in Novato and nearby areas. We offer several activities here at Bridewell for young and senior dogs to ensure all pets have a great stay. To schedule an appointment or to speak with a member on our team, call (415) 897-5471.