From adult to senior: How your dog’s needs change as they age

Watching your dog grow older is one of the greatest privileges of being a pet parent… and also one of the most emotional. One day they’re bounding across the park like a pup, and the next they’re taking their time getting up from the couch (with a little groan for good measure).

If your dog is entering their later years, it’s totally normal to feel unsure about what they need now — and whether you’re doing enough to support them. The good news? Ageing doesn’t mean slowing life down completely. It just means adjusting how we care for our furry family members so they can keep living happily and comfortably.

What age is a senior dog, anyway?

The answer isn’t totally one-size-fits-all. A dog’s size, breed and overall health all influence when they enter their senior years, which is why the shift can feel gradual rather than clearly defined.

In general:

• Smaller breed dogs are considered senior around 10–12 years
  

• Medium breed dogs around 8–10 years
  

• Large and giant breeds can be senior from 6–8 years

Breed, genetics and lifestyle all play a role. A well-cared-for dog may act younger than their age, while others might show signs of ageing earlier. Rather than focusing on a number, it’s more helpful to pay attention to subtle changes in behaviour, movement and energy.

Think of the ‘senior’ stage as a new life phase — not a decline, but a shift.

Physical changes you might notice

As dogs age, their bodies naturally go through wear and tear (just like ours). Some changes are obvious, others are more subtle.

Common physical changes include:

• Stiffness or slower movement, especially after rest
  

• Greying around the muzzle (the ultimate distinguished look)
  

• Reduced stamina on walks
  

• Weight changes — gaining or losing more easily
  

• Dental wear or sensitivity when chewing
  

• Cloudiness in the eyes or changes in hearing

None of these automatically mean something is ‘wrong’, but they do signal that your dog may need a little extra support. Gentle exercise, comfortable bedding and regular vet check-ups become even more important at this stage.

Always chat with your vet if you notice sudden or dramatic changes. The guidance we share in this article is general only and isn’t a replacement for personalised veterinary advice.

Behavioural changes: The quiet shifts you might start to notice

Ageing can also affect how your dog behaves and interacts with the world.

You might notice:

• More sleeping (senior dogs love a good nap)
  

• Less interest in high-energy play
  

• Increased clinginess or reassurance-seeking
  

• Confusion in new environments
  

• Changes in toilet habits

These shifts can feel worrying, but many are simply your dog adapting to a slower pace. 

Keeping routines consistent, providing mental stimulation (sniff walks are brilliant!), and offering reassurance and affection can make a huge difference.

Your dog is still the same soul — just with a few extra years of wisdom.

How nutrition needs change with age

One of the biggest areas that needs adjusting as dogs age is diet.

A senior dog diet should support:

• Joint health and mobility
  

• Lean muscle maintenance
  

• Digestive comfort
  

• Dental health
  

• Weight management

As their metabolism slows, older dogs often need fewer calories but higher-quality nutrition. This is where ingredient awareness really matters. Highly processed pet foods and fillers can be harder for ageing bodies to digest, especially for dogs with sensitivities.

Many dog parents find that simpler, more natural foods are gentler on senior tummies, and help maintain energy without unnecessary extras.

Treats still matter (maybe even more!)

Becoming a senior doesn’t mean your dog should miss out on treats. In fact, treats can play an important role in enrichment, bonding and even dental care, they just need to be chosen thoughtfully.

When treating a senior dog, look for options that are:

• Single-ingredient
  

• Easy to digest
  

• Appropriate for their chewing strength
  

• Free from artificial additives and fillers
  

• Treats which are good for joint health are a bonus

Chewing can help keep jaws active and minds engaged, but hardness matters. Some senior dogs prefer softer chews, while others still love a good gnaw — you know your dog best.

Treat time is still joy time. And joy matters at every age. 

Check out our collection of senior dog treats for our best picks for comfort, gentle chewing and happy golden years.

Supporting joints, digestion and comfort day-to-day

Small adjustments can make a big difference to your senior dog’s quality of life.

Learning how to care for a senior dog often comes down to tuning into these subtle changes — as joints stiffen, digestion becomes more sensitive, and comfort matters more day to day. 

Supporting their mobility helps them move with greater ease, gentle nutrition supports happier tummies, and simple comforts like soft bedding and steady routines reduce physical stress.

Together, these small changes help your dog stay comfortable, calm and enjoying life as they grow older.

Here are a few gentle ways to support them:

• Swap intense runs for shorter, slower walks
  Shorter, relaxed walks are easier on ageing joints and still give your dog plenty of enrichment when you let them stop and sniff.
  

• Add non-slip mats around the house
  Non-slip mats help prevent slips on smooth floors and give senior dogs more confidence moving around at home.
  

• Provide orthopaedic or well-padded beds
  Supportive, cushioned beds reduce pressure on joints and make resting and getting up again much more comfortable.
  

• Keep nails trimmed to support stable movement
  Regular nail trims help your dog maintain better balance and reduce strain on joints and paws.
  

• Maintain regular, gentle routines
  Consistent daily routines provide comfort and reduce stress as your dog moves through their senior years.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Puzzle feeders, scent games and relaxed training sessions help keep senior dogs engaged without exhausting them.

Emotional care: Ageing is emotional for you, too

Watching your dog age can tug at the heart, and that’s completely normal when the love runs this deep. The desire to get everything ‘right’ comes from a beautiful place. But remember — your dog isn’t looking for perfection. They’re looking for you, and the comfort they feel in your everyday rituals together.

When to seek extra support

Regular vet check-ups become even more important as dogs age.

Early intervention can help manage discomfort, identify potential health issues before they progress, and support your dog’s comfort and mobility — helping them enjoy a better quality of life for longer.

Reach out to your vet if you notice:

• Sudden weight changes
  

• Persistent pain or reluctance to move
  

• Significant appetite changes
  

• Ongoing digestive issues
  

• Behaviour changes that seem out of character
  

• New lumps and bumps 

There’s no shame in asking questions. Being proactive is part of being a great dog parent.

Growing older, together

Ageing isn’t the end of the adventure, it’s just a new version of it. One shaped by trust, familiarity and a lifetime of shared moments. 

As your dog grows older, the greatest gift you can give them is your presence — showing up each day with care, compassion and the simple joy of being together.