When your dog is in its early years, it tends to be full of energy, free of pain and discomfort, has full mobility, and is generally quite healthy. Just like with people, as they age, they start to develop common health issues typically related to the senior years. With that said, there are steps you can take that will help to keep your senior dog healthy and happy for many years to come, and ensure that their quality of life doesn’t have to suffer needlessly.

Help to Ease Joint and Muscle Pain and Stiffness

One of the most common things to happen in dogs as they age, especially medium to large dogs, is that they start to have joint and muscle pain and stiffness. It may only pop up in the evening towards the end of the day, or in the morning when they first wake up, or it could be more severe and affect them throughout the day.

There are a number of ways you can help to ease their pain and discomfort starting with their body weight. Making sure your dog is a healthy weight will ensure that their joints aren’t being overworked. Another tip is to keep your dog active. This doesn't mean you need to have them running all day long, but moving regularly will help to prevent stiffness. Walks can just be taken at a slower pace if necessary, and maybe without covering as much ground.

There are also products on the market that can help with the pain. Take for example the products available through cannacompanionusa.com. CannaCompanion features hemp supplements that provide all kinds of health benefits for dogs, including help with joint and mobility issues.

Visit the Vet Regularly

Another tip is to make sure you are visiting your vet for regular check-ups. In younger

dogs, one check-up a year is usually fine, but as they age you may find it's best to increase their check-ups to twice yearly. This will just help to ensure that nothing is missed.

Now Is the Time to Feed Them Better Food

If their food isn't something you've given much thought to in the past, now is the time to make a change. While you don't have to go out and buy the most expensive food out there, it is wise to do your research where ingredients are concerned.

As a dog gets older, it requires more protein in order to stay healthy. Looking for food with higher levels of protein that is also easy to digest will provide them with lots of benefits. You can even speak to your vet about what the key ingredients are that you should look for.

Include Play Time and Socialization Time

Just because your dog is getting older, doesn't mean they are ready to hang-up their playtime hat. Older dogs enjoy human and animal interaction just as much as younger ones do. Now obviously they may need to play at a more subdued pace and for shorter periods of time, but keeping them active will stimulate their body and mind, both of which is beneficial.

By using these tips, you’ll be able to keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come.

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