--- title: "Senior dog care: what changes with age and how to support your dog" id: "6175" type: "post" slug: "senior-dog-care" published_at: "2026-08-05T11:41:24+00:00" modified_at: "2026-08-14T04:46:23+00:00" url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/senior-dog-care/" markdown_url: "https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/senior-dog-care.md" excerpt: "Our dogs may never stop being puppies at heart, but as they grow older, their needs naturally change. They might slow down on walks, spend a little more time snoozing, or need extra support to stay comfortable. With the right..." taxonomy_category: - "Care & training" --- [Pet Talk](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/) [Care & training](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/category/care-and-training/) Senior dog care: what changes with age and how to support your dog Care & training # Senior dog care: what changes with age and how to support your dog Written by our RSPCA Pet Insurance Team 5 Aug, 2026 - 8 min read Our dogs may never stop being puppies at heart, but as they grow older, their needs naturally change. They might slow down on walks, spend a little more time snoozing, or need extra support to stay comfortable. With the right care, many senior dogs continue to enjoy happy, active lives well into their golden years. Knowing what to expect as your dog ages can help you spot changes early, support their wellbeing, and ensure they continue enjoying doing the things they love. In this blog, we’ll explore how ageing may affect your dog’s body and mind, share practical senior dog care tips, and explain when it may be time to speak with your vet. **Table of contents** - [How ageing may affect your dog](#how-ageing-may-affect-your-dog) - [Mobility and joint health in senior dogs](#mobility-and-joint-health-in-senior-dogs) - [Nutrition for senior dogs](#nutrition-for-senior-dogs) - [Cognitive changes](#cognitive-changes) - [Dental care for senior dogs](#dental-care-for-senior-dogs) - [Why regular vet visits matter more with age](#why-regular-vet-visits-matter-more-with-age) - [How pet insurance can help support your senior dog](#how-pet-insurance-can-help-support-your-senior-dog) ## How ageing may affect your dog Every dog ages differently, but there are some common signs you may notice as your dog enters their senior years. As dogs get older, they may: - Move more slowly - Sleep for longer - Show less enthusiasm for long walks or energetic play - Develop a greying muzzle - Experience age-related changes to their vision or the appearance of their eyes - Become less tolerant to hot or cold weather - Prefer familiar routines and quieter environments While these changes can be a normal part of ageing, they shouldn’t automatically be dismissed as ‘just old age’. Pain, illness, or underlying medical conditions can sometimes look very similar. If your dog develops new behaviours or you notice a sudden change, speak to your vet. The important thing to remember is that getting older doesn’t necessarily mean becoming unhealthy. With appropriate care and regular vet attention, many senior dogs continue to live happy, comfortable lives as they age. ## Mobility and joint health in senior dogs One of the most common health issues affecting older dogs is arthritis (*osteoarthritis*), which causes pain and inflammation in the joints. Signs may include: - Stiffness after resting - Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or get into the car - Slower walking pace - Difficulty standing up - Limping - Sensitivity when touched around affected joints Age is only one factor. Genetics, breed, previous injuries, excess body weight, lifestyle, overall health, and environmental factors can all influence a dog’s risk of developing arthritis. The earlier arthritis is recognised, the sooner your vet can recommend strategies to help manage pain, improve comfort, and maintain mobility. You can also support your dog day to day with a few simple adjustments. Small changes to your dog’s exercise routine and home environment can make a big difference to their comfort and mobility. For example, you can help support your senior dog by: - **Choosing shorter, gentler walks** Several shorter walks may be more comfortable than one long outing. - **Trying lower-impact exercise** Swimming, gentle games, and other low-impact activities can help maintain muscle strength while reducing pressure on the joints. Mentally stimulating activities, such as scent-based games, treasure hunts around the garden, or simple food puzzles can also encourage movement and keep your dog engaged and mentally stimulated without placing too much strain on their joints. - **Making essential resources easy to access** Keeping food, water, bedding, toys and other important resources within easy reach can help your senior dog access everything they need easily. - **Keeping daily routines predictable** Maintaining consistent routines for feeding, exercise, rest, and other daily activities may help some senior dogs feel safer and more comfortable as they age. - **Making your home easier to navigate** Non-slip mats, ramps, and supportive bedding with extra padding placed in a draught-free area of the home, can help older dogs move around more comfortably and reduce pressure on sore joints. If you’d like to learn more about how arthritis may affect your dog, read our guide on [recognising and managing arthritis in dogs](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/recognising-and-managing-arthritis-in-dogs/) . ## Nutrition for senior dogs Good nutrition plays an important role in senior dog health. As dogs age, their nutritional needs may change. Some dogs become less active and may be prone to weight gain, while others may lose weight or muscle mass. Their diet may need adjusting to help maintain a healthy weight and support overall health. Some senior dogs also develop medical conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease, which may require specialised nutrition. Before changing your dog’s food, speak with your vet so they can recommend the most appropriate diet for your dog’s age, health, and individual needs. Keeping an eye on your dog’s weight is equally important. Carrying extra weight places additional strain on ageing joints, while unexpected weight loss can sometimes signal an underlying health problem. If you notice any changes in your dog’s weight, appetite, or eating habits, speak with your vet. ## Cognitive changes Just like people, some dogs experience age-related changes in brain function. Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), sometimes called dog dementia, is a chronic, progressive age-related condition that affects a dog’s cognitive function, including memory, learning, awareness, and behaviour. Signs can include: - Appearing confused or disoriented - Changes to sleep patterns - Toileting accidents indoors - Increased fear or anxiety - Changes in activity levels, such as becoming less active or restless - Changes in social interactions with people or other dogs These signs can overlap with other health conditions, including arthritis or vision loss, and other age-related illnesses, so it’s important to have your dog assessed by your vet rather than assuming dementia is the cause. Although there’s currently no cure for CCD, early diagnosis may allow your vet to recommend management strategies that can help maintain your dog’s quality of life. ## Dental care for senior dogs Dental disease is extremely common in dogs and can become more common as they age. In fact, dental disease is one of the most common health conditions affecting pets, with around 80% of dogs experiencing some level of dental disease by three years of age. Left untreated, dental disease can cause pain, discomfort, tooth and gum infections, inflammation, and tooth loss, all of which may affect your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Regular brushing, suitable dental chews and a good-quality diet can all help support your senior dog’s oral health, but professional dental check-ups are just as important. If your vet recommends a dental procedure, don’t assume that your dog’s age means treatment isn’t an option. Before administering any anaesthesia, your vet will assess your dog’s overall health and discuss any risks with you. With the right precautions, many older dogs can safely undergo dental procedures under anaesthesia, helping relieve pain, treat infection, and improve their quality of life. ## Why regular vet visits matter more with age Preventive care becomes increasingly valuable as dogs grow older. As dogs age they may be more likely to develop health conditions that can affect their comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Regular vet check-ups can help identify problems such as arthritis, dental disease, diabetes, or kidney disease before they become more advanced. Your vet can advise how often your dog should be examined based on their age, breed, overall health, and individual needs. They may also recommend blood tests or other health screening tests. If you notice changes in your dog’s appetite, toileting habits, behaviour, mobility, or weight, don’t wait for the next scheduled appointment. Booking a visit early may lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes for your dog. ## How pet insurance can help support your senior dog As dogs age, they’re more likely to develop ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, dental disease, diabetes, and other age-related illnesses. Treatment, medication, and ongoing vet care can become a significant expense over time. Pet insurance can help cover the costs of eligible vet treatment, alleviating the financial pressure and allowing you to focus on supporting your dog’s health and wellbeing. With [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , eligible health conditions are covered, helping to make it easier to say yes to the vet care your dog needs. And with every policy contributing to vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own pup and thousands of others across Australia. To learn more about how RSPCA Pet Insurance could support you and your pet, click [here](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . Or, if you’re ready to take the next step, you can fetch a commitment-free pet insurance quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) . ### **Disclaimer** As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the [Product Disclosure Statement](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/product-disclosure-statement/) to make sure this cover suits your needs. **References** [1] RSPCA Australia. *I think my dog has arthritis, what can I do?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/health-issues/i-think-my-dog-has-arthritis-what-can-i-do](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/health-issues/i-think-my-dog-has-arthritis-what-can-i-do) [2] RSPCA Australia. *How should I take care of my cat or dog’s teeth?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/how-should-i-take-care-of-my-cat-or-dogs-teeth/](https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/how-should-i-take-care-of-my-cat-or-dogs-teeth/) [3] RSPCA Queensland. *Senior Pet Care.* Available from: [https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/blog/pet-care/senior-pet-care](https://www.rspcaqld.org.au/blog/pet-care/senior-pet-care) [4] Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. *The Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome Working Group guidelines for diagnosis and monitoring of canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome.* Available from: [https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/264/4/javma.25.10.0668.xml](https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/264/4/javma.25.10.0668.xml) [5] RSPCA Australia. *What should I feed my dog?* RSPCA Knowledgebase. Available from: [https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/what-should-i-feed-my-dog](https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/dogs/caring-for-my-dog/what-should-i-feed-my-dog) ## FAQs ### At what age is a dog considered a senior? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Dogs age at different rates, and factors such as breed, size, lifestyle, and overall health can all influence when age-related changes begin to appear. If you’re unsure when to start thinking about senior dog care, your vet can help you understand what’s right for your dog’s individual needs. ### What are the signs that my dog is ageing? As dogs get older, you may notice them slowing down, sleeping more, playing less, or developing a greying muzzle. Some senior dogs also become less active or show signs of stiffness and reduced mobility. While many of these changes are a normal part of ageing, sudden or significant changes shouldn’t be ignored. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s always best to book a visit with your vet. ### How often should senior dogs see the vet? Regular health checks become even more important as your dog ages. Your vet can advise how often your dog should be examined based on their age, general health, and individual needs. Regular check-ups can help to detect age-related conditions such as arthritis or dental disease early, allowing treatment or management to begin sooner. Early intervention can help keep your dog comfortable and maintain their quality of life. ### What is dog dementia (canine cognitive dysfunction)? Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD), often called dog dementia, is an age-related condition that affects a dog’s memory, learning, and awareness. Common signs that your dog may be developing dementia include confusion, changes to sleep patterns, house-soiling, increased anxiety, changes in activity levels, or other changes in behaviour. If you notice these changes, your vet can assess your dog and recommend appropriate management options. ### How can pet insurance help as my dog gets older? As dogs enter their senior years, they’re more likely to develop ongoing health conditions such as arthritis, dental disease, or diabetes. The cost of diagnosing and managing these conditions can add up over time. That’s why having pet insurance in place before unexpected health issues arise can provide valuable peace of mind, helping you focus on your dog’s care rather than the cost of treatment. With [RSPCA Pet Insurance](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) , you may be eligible to claim for these health conditions provided they are covered, which can help make vet care more accessible when your senior dog needs treatment. And with every policy contributing to vital [RSPCA animal welfare initiatives](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-insurance-with-purpose/) , it’s protection with purpose. For your own pup and thousands of others across Australia. To learn more, visit the RSPCA Pet Insurance [website](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) or get a commitment-free quote [online](https://quote.rspcapetinsurance.org.au/) today. As with any insurance, terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. Please read the Product Disclosure Statement to make sure this cover suits your needs. [See more](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/faqs/) ## Related blogs [Understanding dog allergies: signs, types, and how to manage them Aug 2026 - 7 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/understanding-dog-allergies/) [How to trim your dog or cat’s nails safely Aug 2026 - 10 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/how-to-trim-your-dog-or-cats-nails-safely/) [Winter pet care tips: Things to keep in mind during winter Jul 2026 - 7 min read Read blog](https://rspcapetinsurance.org.au/pet-talk/winter-pet-care-tips/)