Caring for a Senior Dog: Signs of Ageing and Simple Home Tips

Quick answer: Most dogs are considered seniors from about 7 years old, and earlier for large and giant breeds. Older dogs do best with vet check-ups about every six months, gentle daily walks with plenty of sniffing, brain games such as puzzle feeders, a soft bed and easy access to water. Tell your vet about changes in mobility, appetite, thirst, toileting or behaviour early.

When is a dog a senior?

Bigger dogs age faster. As a rough guide from VCA Animal Hospitals:

• Small dogs (under about 9 kg): around 9 to 11 years
• Medium dogs (about 10 to 23 kg): around 7 to 9 years
• Large dogs (about 23 to 45 kg): around 6 to 7 years
• Giant dogs (over about 45 kg): around 4 to 5 years

Many Australian vets treat dogs as senior from 7 years and up.

See the vet every six months

Sydney Animal Hospitals recommends senior pet check-ups every six months, because a dog can age the equivalent of two to three human years in that time. Regular checks give your vet the chance to pick up problems such as dental disease, arthritis, lumps or kidney changes early, when there are more options.

Signs worth mentioning to your vet

• Reluctance to walk, jump into the car or climb stairs; stiffness after rest
• Bad breath or trouble eating
• Drinking or weeing more than usual, or accidents in the house
• Noticeable weight loss or gain
• New lumps, or changes to skin and coat
• Coughing or breathing changes
• Red or cloudy eyes, or bumping into things
• Confusion, restlessness or a change in temperament

None of these should be put down to "just old age" without a check. Many have treatments that make a real difference to comfort.

Changes in thinking and behaviour

Some older dogs develop canine cognitive dysfunction, a condition similar to dementia. Cornell University's vet school describes signs such as getting stuck in corners or seeming lost at home, interacting differently with family, pacing or barking at night and sleeping more by day, house-soiling, and changes in activity or anxiety. If you notice these, talk to your vet; there are management options.

Gentle exercise: sniff walks over long walks

Older dogs still need daily movement to stay mobile and keep weight in check, but the walk can change. Try shorter, slower walks at a regular time, with plenty of time to sniff. Cornell's vets suggest sniff-focused walks and new routes as good mental exercise for seniors. In summer, walk early or late and test the footpath with the back of your hand first, as older dogs overheat more easily (see Is it too hot to walk your dog?). For evening walks, a light-up collar helps drivers see a slower dog crossing the road.

Keep their brain busy

Mental exercise matters just as much as walks. Cornell recommends food puzzles and simple scent games for older dogs, especially on bad-weather days, and teaching new tricks that suit their body, such as shake hands rather than anything that strains the back or hips.

Our Dog Puzzle Feeder sits flat on the floor, so your dog doesn't have to stretch or jump. Hide a few pieces of kibble under the sliding covers and leave some open at first so it's an easy win. Supervise play; it's a game, not a chew toy. More ideas in our indoor games for a bored dog.

Make home more comfortable

• A supportive bed in a warm, draught-free spot, away from busy walkways.
• Grip underfoot: rugs or runners on slippery timber and tiles help stiff legs.
• Ramps or steps for the car or a favourite couch, so your dog doesn't have to jump.
• Water within easy reach, with an extra bowl if your dog spends time in different rooms.
• Keep routines steady: regular meal, walk and bed times are reassuring for older dogs.

Food, teeth and joints

Older dogs often need fewer kilojoules and may need a diet suited to their age or health. Dental disease is common in older dogs, so ask your vet to check teeth at each visit. If your dog seems stiff or sore, ask your vet about pain relief, weight management and whether a joint supplement is worth trying. Don't give human pain medication: some are toxic to dogs.

Shop the fix

See our Calm & Comfort range or the Dog Puzzle Feeder.

Frequently asked questions

At what age is a dog considered old?

Usually from about 7 years, but large and giant breeds age sooner and small breeds later.

How often should a senior dog see the vet?

About every six months, plus any time you notice a change in health or behaviour.

How much exercise does an older dog need?

Daily, gentle exercise suited to your dog's health. Shorter, slower walks with time to sniff usually work well. Your vet can advise for dogs with arthritis or heart problems.

Are puzzle feeders good for senior dogs?

Many older dogs enjoy them as gentle mental exercise. Choose an easy, flat puzzle, start with some covers open, and supervise.

What are signs of dementia in dogs?

Seeming lost at home, getting stuck in corners, night-time pacing or barking, sleeping more by day, house-soiling and changes in how they interact with family. See your vet if you notice them.

Should I give my old dog joint supplements?

Ask your vet first. They can check for arthritis and recommend the right mix of pain relief, weight control and supplements.

Sources

• VCA Animal Hospitals: When is your dog considered a senior?
• Sydney Animal Hospitals: Senior pet health
• Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Senior dog dementia

Updated October 2026. General information only, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your dog, call your vet.