Caring for an older dog - everyday life and care while you are away
Short answer
An older dog often needs shorter but more frequent walks, a soft and warm place to rest and regular vet checks. Under the Swedish Board of Agriculture's general advice, older dogs should be let outside more often than every six hours during the day, so a senior dog rarely copes with a whole working day alone. When you are away, a senior dog is usually happiest at home, with home visits during the day or a sitter who stays with you when you travel.
Signs your dog is getting older
When a dog counts as older depends a lot on size and breed. Large dogs often age earlier than small ones. It is more about how your dog is doing than its exact age. Common signs are:
Signs to watch for
- Stiff when getting up, or reluctant to jump into the car or onto the sofa
- Less stamina on walks
- Poorer hearing or sight
- Needs to go out more often or has accidents indoors
- Sleeps more, or sleeps restlessly at night
- Changes in appetite or weight
Many of these changes can be eased. So book a vet appointment if you notice something has changed, rather than assuming it is just age.
Regular health checks can also be wise, even when your dog seems well. Problems with teeth, joints and internal organs can often be found early and treated before they affect everyday life. Ask your vet how often your dog should come in, and note down changes you see at home so they are easier to compare between visits.
Walks for an older dog
Exercise is still important, but the need changes. The Swedish Board of Agriculture's general advice says young and older dogs should be let outside more often than every six hours during the day.
- Take shorter walks, but more often.
- Let your dog set the pace and sniff in peace.
- Choose soft ground like grass and forest paths over tarmac.
- Avoid the midday heat in summer and ice in winter.
- Give a small or short-haired dog a coat when it is cold.
Do not forget the mind. Nose work, simple search games and calm play at home keep an older dog alert even on days when it cannot walk far. Many seniors also enjoy joining in everyday life, such as a short trip to the shop or some time in the garden, as long as the pace is calm and there is time to rest afterwards.
Read more about how the need differs between dogs in our guide on how long to walk your dog.
Adapting your home
Small changes at home can make a big difference for a dog with stiff joints or poorer sight:
Things to arrange at home
- Non-slip rugs on slippery floors
- A soft, warm bed in a quiet spot without draughts
- A ramp or a step where your dog usually jumps up
- Water and food in the same places as before
- A gate at the stairs if your dog sees or hears poorly
Keep routines as unchanged as you can too. An older dog often becomes more sensitive to change and does well when every day looks the same.
When you are away
An older dog rarely copes with being alone as long as before and can become anxious in a new place. So care at home often works best:
| Situation | Suggestion | Why |
|---|---|---|
| An ordinary working day | Home visit or a midday dog walk | Your dog gets out more often and rests at home |
| Your dog takes medication | Home visits at the right times | The sitter can give medication on schedule |
| An overnight trip | A sitter who stays in your home | No change of scene and company around the clock |
| Your dog is happy at the sitter's | Overnight care at the sitter's home | Suits a lively senior who already knows the sitter |
On Pet Lounge you can book home visits, dog walking and a sitter in your home. Search for sitters near you and look for someone with experience of older dogs.
An older dog may need more time to feel safe with a new person. Meet a few times first, let the sitter take a walk while you are there, and book a shorter stay before a longer trip.
What the sitter needs to know
The more the sitter knows, the safer it is for your dog. Go through this before the stay:
What to tell the sitter
- Medication, doses and times, and how your dog takes it best
- How far your dog can walk and which routes work
- Signs that your dog is in pain or unwell
- Whether your dog hears or sees poorly, and how you usually wake or call it
- Your vet's number and what to do if something happens
The full list is in our checklist before the stay. You can also read about the protection fund and how Pet Lounge works.
Frequently asked questions
When does a dog count as older?
It depends on size and breed. Large dogs often age earlier than small ones. Look at how your dog is doing, such as stamina, mobility and sleep, rather than its exact age.
How often does an older dog need to go out?
More often than an adult dog in its prime. Under the Swedish Board of Agriculture's general advice, older dogs should be let outside more often than every six hours during the day. Shorter, more frequent walks suit most seniors.
Can an older dog be alone for a working day?
Rarely for the whole day. A home visit or a midday dog walk means your dog gets out more often and is not alone for so long.
Is it better for an older dog to stay at home when I travel?
Usually, yes. With a sitter who stays in your home, your dog avoids a change of scene and has company around the clock.
Can the sitter give my dog medication?
Yes, many sitters do. Write down the medication, dose and times, and go through them together before the stay.
Find a sitter near you
Read profiles and reviews, compare prices and send a message before you book.
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