Senior Dog Care: Activities & Toys for Older Dogs

Even as they age, senior dogs still love to have fun! While they may not be as energetic as they once were, they still enjoy engaging activities that match their comfort levels and abilities. 

A dog is typically considered a senior in the later stages of life, though the exact age range varies by breed and size. Smaller breeds, which tend to live longer, reach senior status around 9 to11 years old, while larger breeds may be considered seniors as early as 6 to 8 years old. 

With age comes a slower pace and potential health concerns, so senior dogs often prefer gentle, low-impact activities. Keeping their physical limitations in mind, you can find plenty of enjoyable ways to share their golden years together. 

Health Considerations for Senior Dogs 

As dogs grow older, their bodies undergo significant changes. Bones become more fragile, fat distribution shifts, and joints can become stiff and achy. Senior dogs also tend to have lower energy levels and reduced stamina compared to their younger selves. Additionally, cognitive decline is common in aging dogs, which can affect their awareness and behavior. 

Common health conditions in senior dogs, including arthritis, canine cognitive dysfunction (dementia), and diminished hearing or vision, can affect their ability to exercise and play. 

While it’s important to be mindful of these changes, staying active is still essential for senior dog care. Regular, gentle exercise helps maintain muscle strength and joint mobility, while mental stimulation can keep their mind sharp. By choosing the right activities, you can support your senior dog’s overall health and happiness. 

Fun Activity Ideas and Toys for Older Dogs 

Idea #1: Gentle, Low-Impact Exercise 

The word “walk” sets off immediate tail wagging in many dogs—old or young! For senior dogs, however, it’s important to keep walks short and avoid challenging terrain. With age, dogs often have less stamina, and conditions like arthritis can cause discomfort during longer walks or hikes. Stick to easy routes and let your dog set the pace to ensure they’re comfortable. 

Swimming is another excellent low-impact exercise that’s easy on aging joints, and many dogs love to swim! Always supervise your dog while swimming, especially seniors with lower stamina. A life jacket can provide extra safety and support during swim time. 

Keep in mind that senior dogs may have trouble regulating their body temperature. Make sure the water isn’t too cold and promptly dry your dog off afterward to prevent them from getting too chilly. 

🐶 Related: Dog Swimming Safety: What to Know Before Diving In

Idea #2: Mental Stimulation and Enrichment 

Mental enrichment for senior dogs is crucial to keep their minds sharp and engaged. Just like people benefit from brain games like crossword puzzles, older dogs can thrive with activities that challenge their cognitive abilities. 

Cognitive toys for dogs are a great way to provide mental stimulation. For instance, fillable chew toys engage your senior dog’s mind as they figure out how to get to the treats or spread inside. Look for options made from flexible rubber that is gentler on older teeth. 

In addition to interactive toys for senior dogs, you can also set up your own hide-and-seek game to encourage problem-solving. Simply hide treats under a cup or blanket and challenge your dog to sniff out the reward!  

Idea #3: Chew Time with Toys for Senior Dogs 

Many older dogs still love to play and chew—after all, it’s their natural instinct! However, older dogs often have weaker teeth and jaws, so it’s important to choose chew toys that are gentle yet satisfying. Our Flexi Chew toys, which are made from a bouncy and flexible material, offer durability while still feeling gentler on aging teeth. 

Of course, dogs love chew treats, too! When selecting senior dog treats, look for options that are made with limited ingredients, which may be easier for your fur pal to digest. Some treats even feature ingredients that can help support your senior dog’s wellness, like real bone broth that’s rich in amino acids. By choosing healthy and wholesome treats for your dog, they can enjoy chew time even more. 

Golden Years & Golden Hearts 

Senior dogs may require a bit more care, but they still have a lot of love to give—and playing to do! The key to senior dog care is understanding their unique needs and making adjustments to keep them comfortable, happy, and healthy. Whether it’s through gentle exercise, mental enrichment, or simply spending quality time together, there are countless ways to make their golden years enjoyable for both of you. 

Looking for a change of scenery? Check out our guide to traveling with your senior dog for more fun ideas and activities to enjoy with your older pup!