They say age is nothing but a number, and while that may be true in some ways, the time that has passed from puppyhood until now has made your dog very different. When dogs reach their senior years (around age seven or eight for most breeds), they can suffer with many of the same health ailments as humans. Issues such as arthritis, kidney failure, cancer, and even cognitive dysfunction–doggie dementia–can all turn your loving pup into a crotchety old canine.

Supplement to improve quality of life.

Just as humans consume vitamins, dogs can benefit from health supplements. DGP for Pets is an innovative formula that combines the powerful benefits of marine collagen extract, wheatgrass, turmeric, and other active ingredients to support mobility and flexibility in dogs of all sizes. CBD oil, which can be purchased at many local retailers and online, is also considered to be safe to give to most dogs. CBD can help with joint pain, inflammation, and anxiety. RemedyReview.com offers more information and details 10 of the most popular CBD oils. Consult with your dog’s veterinarian prior to starting any new supplements.

Make exercise a priority.

The importance of exercise for your canine companion can’t be underscored enough. It should be a part of their daily care routine, and especially once they begin to show signs of aging. Walking with your dog once or twice per day for at least 30 minutes can further enhance their mobility and may keep heart problems, obesity, and other issues at bay. If you and your pet aren’t as enthusiastic about their exercise routine these days, Pet Health Network suggests to start slowly. Be cautious and pay attention to the surfaces you walk on. Pavement can cause blisters, for example, and a rocky terrain may be uncomfortable. If you notice your dog is in pain, stop the activity and contact your vet.

Enhance your home.

There are many ways you can make your home a more comfortable environment for your aging pet. Using pet stairs, for example, can help a dog with arthritis get up and down off the couch or bed more easily. If your dog’s vision has begun to fail, install motion-activated night lights throughout your home so they can see when it’s dark. An elevated feeding station will ensure your dog has access to their food and water without having to constantly bend over and put added strain on already stressed joints. You may also consider changing from a leash to a body harness, which may be more comfortable for your dog.

Watch their diet.

Depending on your pet’s health, it may be beneficial to switch to a dog food made specifically for senior pets. The Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University notes that every dog’s needs will be unique, so don’t rush out and buy the first dog food marketed toward older animals. One thing that is certain is that food lower in phosphorus may be beneficial if your dog has kidney disease. If you are concerned about weight gain, talk to your vet about switching to a lower calorie diet.

Everything about your pet is changing, from dental health to the ability to recognize familiar faces. The best thing you can do for a senior pet is to keep a close eye on activity levels and seek medical treatment if you notice that your pet seems off. Show them you care by keeping tabs on their health and doing what you can to keep them comfortable as they experience the effects of age.