Your dog may start to slow down as they reach seniorhood, but staying active is still important. Regular exercise can help them manage weight, support healthy muscles and joints, and provide mental stimulation by keeping their minds sharp. As dogs age, they may experience challenges, so it's important to adapt their routine and provide wellness support to ensure they stay healthy and active.

No matter if your dog is a go-getter or a couch potato, our tips can help them stay happy and stimulated as they enjoy the best of their twilight years.

Why Staying Active Matters for Senior Dogs

Activity is beneficial for dogs of all ages, especially seniors. Regular movement supports:

• Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight promotes normal physical function and helps dogs stay comfortable.

• Muscle and Joint Health: Gentle exercise supports muscle tone and helps maintain healthy joints.

• Mental Stimulation: Activities like walking or interactive play provide enrichment and encourage engagement.

• Overall Wellness: Movement helps promote a sense of well-being, contributing to a happy and fulfilling life.

Tips for Keeping Your Senior Dog Active

Maintaining activity levels for older dogs requires thoughtful care. Here are some tips to encourage a healthy routine:

1. Adapt Activities to Their Needs
   As your dog ages, adjust their activities to suit their energy and comfort levels. For example, consider shorter, more frequent walks; low-impact activities like swimming; or interactive toys for mental and physical stimulation.

2. Provide a Balanced Diet
   A nutrient-rich diet designed for senior dogs helps maintain their overall health. Look for options that include Omega-3 fatty acids, which help support normal joint function and skin health.

3. Incorporate Wellness-Focused Products
   Honest Paws’ Mobility and Joint Essentials are great options to add to your senior dog’s routine.

• Mobility CBD Oil: Made with natural ingredients, this oil helps support overall wellness and is easy to administer.

• Mobility Bites: These bites are crafted to help support joint health and maintain flexibility.

• Mobility Soft Chews: Packed with all the same ingredients as our Mobility Bites, soft chews are perfect for smaller dogs or seniors who need a softer option.

4. Create a Comfortable Home Environment
   Ensure your senior dog's living space is safe and supportive by adding rugs or mats to slippery hard floors, providing beds for rest and recovery, and using ramps to access furniture or stairs.

5. Be Mindful of the Weather
   Older dogs can be more sensitive to temperature extremes. Limit outdoor activity during very hot or cold weather and provide protective gear like sweaters or cooling vests when needed.

6. Monitor Activity Levels
   Pay attention to your dog’s comfort during and after exercise. Adjust routines based on their needs, and allow plenty of rest between activities.

Ingredients to Look For

When shopping for wellness products to support your senior pup,  these are several key ingredients to look for:

1. Glucosamine

Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints. Research shows that it helps support joint health by maintaining cartilage structure and promoting flexibility. It’s particularly beneficial for senior dogs experiencing occasional stiffness due to aging.

2. Chondroitin

Often paired with glucosamine, chondroitin helps maintain healthy cartilage by supporting its elasticity and water retention. This ingredient promotes joint comfort and mobility, making it an excellent addition to any senior dog’s supplement routine.

3. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur compound that supports overall joint health. It promotes normal inflammatory responses, which can be particularly helpful for senior dogs after physical activity or occasional overexertion.

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil, are essential for maintaining healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall mobility. Research shows that EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) are the most beneficial types for dogs, as they support joint health, promote normal inflammatory responses, and contribute to overall long-term health.

5. CBD

CBD supports the endocannabinoid system, contributing to normal brain and nerve function, along with cellular health. For senior dogs, CBD can help promote relaxation and ease occasional discomfort from exercise. 

Benefits of Honest Paws Mobility Products

Honest Paws’ Mobility products offer wellness-focused support tailored to your dog’s needs. Whether you choose Mobility CBD Oil or Mobility Bites/Soft Chews, these products are designed to help your dog maintain a happy lifestyle.

• Supports Joint and Muscle Health
  Honest Paws’ Mobility Collection is designed to help maintain flexibility and support healthy movement.

• Convenient and Easy to Use
  Mobility CBD Oil is easy to administer directly, while the soft chews and bites are a tasty way to incorporate support into your dog’s routine.

• Premium Quality Ingredients
  Made with pet-safe, natural ingredients, Honest Paws’ products are third-party tested to ensure quality and safety.

Creating a Comprehensive Wellness Plan

Supporting your senior dog’s active lifestyle requires a balanced approach that includes exercise, diet, and care routines:

• Regular Vet Visits: Routine checkups help monitor your dog’s health.

• Balanced Diet: Provide essential nutrients with high-quality dog food.

• Wellness-Focused Products: Incorporate products to support your senior dog’s well-being. 

• Flexible Routine: Adjust activities to match your dog’s changing needs over time.

Conclusion

You can support your senior dog with gentle exercise, a healthy diet, and Honest Paws’ Mobility products to maintain their overall well-being. 

Explore our variety of Mobility Essentials to learn how Honest Paws can help support your dog’s wellness at every stage of life!