19/08/2026
⬇️The goal is to notice changes early:
❤️ WEIGHT & BODY
Staying lean matters: excess body fat puts more strain on joints and is associated with a shorter lifespan, while unexplained weight or muscle loss can be an early sign that something is wrong.
🐾 MOBILITY
Getting up should not suddenly become harder. The same goes for stairs, jumping into the car or keeping up on a normal walk.
If your dog starts limping, moving more slowly or avoiding things they used to do, record a short video for your vet. At home, rugs on slippery floors and easier access to favorite spots can help a lot.
🍽️ EATING & DRINKING
You know what is normal for your dog. A noticeable change in appetite or thirst matters, especially if it sticks around.
Also watch how they eat. Dropping food, chewing on one side or suddenly preferring soft food may mean their mouth hurts.
🚽 BATHROOM HABITS
Notice changes in how often your dog p*es or poops, stool consistency and any new accidents at home.
Blood, repeated straining, ongoing diarrhea or constipation need a vet check. Trying to p*e but producing little or nothing is urgent.
🧠 BEHAVIOR
Senior dogs can change, but don’t write everything off as age. New anxiety, confusion, pacing at night, unusual sleep or suddenly losing interest in favorite things can have a physical cause too.
Keep their days familiar, give them gentle exercise and things to sniff, explore and figure out.
🦷 ROUTINE HEALTH
Have a quick look at teeth, gums, eyes, ears, paws, nails, skin and coat each week. You’re looking for anything that wasn’t there before.
Bad breath, sore or bleeding gums, discharge, redness, swelling or obvious discomfort deserve attention.
And keep those regular vet visits, even when your dog seems completely fine. Senior dogs are very good at quietly adapting to discomfort.
More good days together is the whole point 🤍