Longer Lives for All Dogs: 7 Tips to Get You There

The lifespans of our dog pals can be greatly improved via a few easy steps. photo: AdobeStock

Like you, I want my dogs to live forever. I can’t imagine our home devoid of our three beloved rescue mutts.

But while immortality may be a stretch, a life span well into the teens is not. In fact, I’ve come to expect my canine patients to live into their mid-to-late teens. With proper care, I hope this can be the new norm for all dogs.

While we have no control over our dogs’ genes, we do have direct control of many factors believed to extend longevity and quality of life. If you want to help your dog enjoy a healthy life for as long as possible, I hope you’ll consider these tips, which are especially key for senior dogs.

Seven Tips for a Longer Life

1. Keep them lean! It’s common sense, and it’s scientifically proven. Dogs with a healthy body condition score live longer than their chubby counterparts - 15% longer according to one landmark study. Unfortunately, more than half of the dogs in America are overweight or obese. This takes a toll on the body, especially for senior dogs. The single most important thing you can do for your dog’s health may be to help them maintain a healthy body weight.

2. Understand core and non-core vaccinations. Vaccines are important. It’s heartbreaking to treat a dog who is dying of a preventable disease like parvo or distemper. I have had unvaccinated patients die of both, despite the best modern medicine had to offer. So don’t get me wrong, I’m definitely pro-vaccine. That said, vaccine protocols should be customized for your dog’s age, lifestyle, health status, and environment. Vaccinations aren’t a “one size fits all” proposition. Talk to your veterinarian about the vaccines your dog needs, particularly as they move into their senior years.

3. Brush your dog’s teeth daily. 80% of dogs over the age of three have periodontal disease. This is a sad statistic because, in most cases, it’s totally preventable. Brushing reduces plaque and helps prevent gingivitis. Being proactive about your dog’s oral health should reduce the amount (and expense) of professional care needed in the senior years.

4. Don’t underestimate the importance of routine nail care. Long nails are not just a cosmetic concern. They change the way a dog’s toes interface with the ground. Long toenails impact a dog’s gait and posture, which is especially bad for senior dogs who commonly have arthritic joints. Keep your dog’s nails trimmed regularly, ideally every 2-4 weeks.

5. Provide daily exercise sessions for your dog. Dogs in the wild move far more than our domestic dogs, most of whom are lucky to get one walk a day. Gaiting is vital to a dog’s physical and mental well being. Plus, walking your dog is one of the best ways to create a healthy bond. I’m a huge believer in the old adage “use it or lose it” for senior dogs!

6. Nutraceuticals can be a safe, natural way to improve your dog’s health. For example, Omega-3 fatty acids can help manage inflammatory conditions in dogs, such as allergies and arthritis. Probiotics are valuable for all dogs, not just those who are on a course of antibiotics. I also recommend joint supplements for every single one of my senior patients. Talk to your veterinarian before starting your dog on any dietary supplements, but with your vet’s approval, they can be a great way to help your senior dog feel his or her best.

7. Schedule regular veterinary examinations. The tip-to-tail physical exam is essential for all dogs, especially senior dogs who should see the veterinarian at least twice a year. Periodically, your veterinarian will recommend lab work, which provides a non-invasive window to assess your dog’s health. Establishing a baseline, monitoring trends, and providing early intervention if abnormalities are detected are all investments in your dog’s long-term well-being.

Of course, there are important factors we cannot control, such as genetics and past history. But by implementing these tips with your veterinarian’s supervision, you will improve your senior dog’s quality of life while increasing the likelihood of celebrating more birthdays together. After all, improvements in quality of life typically result in improved quantity of life, too.