You might also place a low stepping stool in front of couches or bed in order to enable your dog to climb onto them itself. [5] X Research source Always be gentle with your dog and respond to any signals it gives that you’re pulling too hard. If your dog yelps or cries out, don’t insist on pulling your dog up onto furniture.
If you notice your dog sleeping elsewhere, rather than its normal bed where the heating pad is under it, you probably have the electric blanket or pad turned up too high. Reduce the temperature to a comfortable level. Likewise, if your dog is getting up in the middle of the night, or going back and forth between its bed with the heat source beneath it and another, cooler area of the house, you should turn the heat down.
Provide a soft, warm bed so your dog doesn’t miss the doghouse.
Overweight dogs will suffer from stiffness. But your dog should also not be too skinny. The ideal dog weight is one in which you can feel the ribs, but they are not poking out. Your dog’s abdomen should appear tucked – not hanging – when viewed from the side. [9] X Research source
Always follow manufacturer directions when administering supplements. Only give your dog as much as is appropriate based on its age and weight.
Ask your vet about recommendations regarding its diet.
Proceed slowly at first, but don’t let your dog linger or walk lazily. The more intense your dog’s walk, the better the benefits you will both reap. Don’t push your elderly dog beyond what it is capable of. If your dog starts to slow down noticeably, reduce your pace and head for home.
Playing with your dog is good for its mental and emotional health.
After your walk is finished, pet your dog several more times and say “Good boy/girl” affectionately.
Your dog might be able to prescribe medication for your dog to help it cope with the stiffness in its joints. You should already have a vet for your older dog, but if you don’t, check online veterinary organization databases. The American Animal Hospital Association, for instance, has a searchable list of animal treatment centers at https://www. aaha. org/your-pet/hospital-locator/.
Talk to your doctor to determine if your dog needs surgery.
Ask the masseuse for tips about how you might be able to provide a simple massage to your dog in the morning in order to reduce its stiffness. If possible, sit by and carefully watch the pet masseuse as they massage your doggie. Massaging your dog yourself can not only save time and money, but provide a great opportunity to improve the bond between you.
Ask your vet for recommendations of doggie hydrotherapy centers near you.
