Anthony Dorsi | Golden Retriever Society

Golden Retrievers are arguably the most popular dog breeds made as pets by families worldwide, with their good-natured, playful, and sweet personalities that are hard to resist. That said, it's no secret that caring for a Golden Retriever is a journey filled with heartwarming moments and distinctive challenges. But as these lovable canines age, their needs also change, demanding special attention and care. These dogs are known for their boundless enthusiasm and infectious energy, but as they enter their golden years, they may experience physical limitations and health concerns. Given that, it's important to recognize that as these loyal companions grow older, their care must adapt accordingly. In this article, we'll explore the basics of nurturing a senior Golden Retriever, from the enduring bond you share to the wisdom in their eyes that comes with time. From the age where they start their senior dog status down to making your home senior dog-friendly, we've got you covered. At What Age Do Golden Retrievers Get Old? Typically, Golden Retrievers reach senior status at the age of 8, marking their final years. Once they attain this age, you'll observe a slowdown in their movement, along with an increased susceptibility to various health issues. Signs of Aging in Golden Retrievers Identifying their signs of aging is one of the earliest steps you can take to prepare a life for your senior dog that guarantees them a comfortable time. Fortunately, they are easy to spot. Here are some common signs to look out for in senior Golden Retrievers: Slower Movement Senior Goldens may become less active and need help getting up or moving around. At this age, they will be more prone to developing conditions such as muscle cramps or arthritis, making it difficult to be their usual energetic selves. Activities they used to enjoy, like jumping or running, might become less frequent, and even a short walk can leave them tired faster. Gray Fur Just like humans, they may start showing a bit of gray in their fur, especially around the muzzle, eyes, and paws. Their golden hue will slowly become dull as the cells responsible for this color stop in production. However, don’t be alarmed if you notice some gray hairs because some golden retrievers can start graying as early as 5 years old. Joint Stiffness Arthritis and other joint problems can set in, leading to discomfort and limited mobility. Your once agile and sprightly companion may struggle to get up or move around easily. Changes in Appetite Some may develop a reduced appetite, while others might become pickier eaters. These shifts in appetite can be due to various factors, including changes in their metabolism and dental health. Increased Sleeping As your Golden Retriever ages, you'll likely observe a significant increase in their sleeping hours. They may spend more time resting and napping throughout the day. This increase in sleep is a natural part of aging and helps them conserve energy. While they may be less interested in active play, providing a comfortable and cozy place to rest is essential. Behavioral Changes One common change is increased clinginess. Your senior pup may seek more attention and affection from you, wanting to be close by your side. Senior golden retrievers may also display mood swings, sometimes becoming more irritable or anxious. These behavioral changes are often linked to physical discomfort or cognitive decline. The Most Common Health Issues With Golden Retrievers Golden Retrievers become more susceptible to certain age-related health problems as they grow older. But don't worry; we can help them stay happy and healthy with proper care and vigilance. Here's a list of some of the most common age-related health problems in Golden Retrievers: Hip Dysplasia Heart Issues Cancer Arthritis Cataracts Obesity Dental Problems How to Care for Senior Golden Retriever Taking care of a senior Golden Retriever, first and foremost, involves making sure they eat right. You want to be sure they get all the important vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and supplements they need to stay healthy and live longer. That begs the question… What Should I Feed My Senior Golden Retriever? As your golden retriever gets older, it's important to adjust their diet accordingly. By providing them with the appropriate nutrition, you can help ensure that your aging golden retriever enjoys a comfortable and active life for as long as possible. Protein An ideal diet for aging golden retrievers is rich in high-quality protein, with at least 30% protein content to keep your pet healthy. Protein not only supports overall health but also aids in repairing body tissues, building muscles, and maintaining a healthy skin and coat. You can provide quality protein through commercial foods or by offering your golden retriever options like lamb, fish, beef, chicken, or turkey. Vitamins and Minerals Look for foods with high levels of vitamins such as A, B, C, D, E, and K. You can find these in foods like pumpkin, carrots, spinach, and eggs, or you may opt for commercial pet foods instead. Your senior golden will also need a healthy dose of minerals like magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, and sodium, which help maintain fluid balance and facilitate oxygen transport in the bloodstream. Fats Their food should have approximately 12% to 18% fat. Look for foods that include oils from sources like cod liver or salmon. Fat is a valuable energy source and provides essential omega fatty acids, which can reduce shedding and promote healthy joints and muscles in your golden retriever's diet. Carbohydrates Their diet should contain around 30% to 35% carbohydrates to support their energy levels and cognitive function. Consider a slightly higher carbohydrate-content diet if your golden retriever is still active. For less active goldens that tend to rest more, choose food with fewer carbohydrates. How Much Exercise Does a Senior Golden Retriever Need? Active senior golden retrievers stay lively with 20 to 30 minutes of exercise daily. Keep them mentally sharp by playing fun games like 'find it' or offering them puzzle toys. But remember, your senior golden's workouts should match their energy and health. Too much exertion can make conditions like arthritis or muscle pain worse. Instead, go for easy activities like stretching or a leisurely swim together in a pool. Adapt their exercise routine to their needs for their best well-being. Where Should a Senior Golden Retriever Sleep? Ensuring your senior golden retriever has suitable sleeping arrangements is crucial for their comfort. Provide them with a soft, comfortable bed with clean blankets to keep them warm and free from allergies. Consider allowing your golden to sleep in a warmer room like the living room or your bedroom in colder weather. Conversely, during the summer, ensure they have a cool spot to sleep, such as the kitchen or a tiled area, to prevent overheating. How to Groom a Golden Retriever Grooming is vital for your golden retriever's well-being. Regular brushing keeps their coat healthy and can even provide a soothing massage. Bathing as needed ensures their hygiene, while nail care prevents muscle strain and balance issues. During grooming, check for lumps, bumps, and skin issues, and don't forget to clean their ears, which can get dirty. If grooming seems challenging, professional services are an option for keeping your golden retriever looking and feeling great. How Often Should a Senior Golden Retriever Go to the Vet? Unlike adult goldens, who typically visit the vet yearly, senior companions should have check-ups at least every six months. This more frequent schedule helps your vet detect and address any issues before they escalate into life-threatening problems. A geriatric veterinary visit encompasses a comprehensive assessment, including a thorough physical examination, blood work, urinalysis, a thyroid profile, and an EKG. These evaluations provide a holistic view of your senior golden's health and help identify any underlying concerns. Making Your Home Senior Dog-Friendly Adapting your home to accommodate your senior Golden Retriever is essential for their comfort and safety. You may consider the following adjustments to make them breathe and move a little easier: If your home has stairs, install ramps or steps to help your senior dog navigate them more easily. Opt for non-slip rugs or mats to provide secure footing, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Ensure they have comfortable and supportive bedding in various locations around the house for resting. Raise their food and water bowls to a comfortable height to prevent strain on their neck and back. Use safety gates to restrict access to areas with potential hazards or stairs. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature, especially in extreme weather conditions. Periodically assess your home for potential dangers like loose cords or sharp objects within reach. Conclusion Caring for a senior Golden Retriever is a journey that deepens the bond between you and your faithful companion. As these lovable canines age, they require special attention and care to ensure their golden years are filled with comfort and happiness. Remember, the care and love you provide to your senior Golden Retriever during their golden years is a testament to your enduring bond. By addressing their changing needs and ensuring their comfort and well-being, you can make these years as precious and enjoyable as their youthful ones!