As dogs age, they may start moving a little slower, struggle with stairs, or have trouble getting comfy in their favorite spots. The good news is that a few simple changes around the house can make a big difference in keeping them safe, happy, and comfortable. Here are some simple ways to help your senior pup navigate your home with ease.
Add Mobility Aids to Your Home
A few key additions can make life so much easier for your senior dog. Here are some mobility aids that can help them get around your home:
Pet Gates
If your dog struggles with stairs or tends to wander into areas that aren’t safe, dog gates are a great solution. Use them to block off staircases or rooms with slippery flooring to reduce the risk of falls or injuries. This is also a great way to limit which areas your pup can access, which will help you keep a closer eye on them throughout the day.
Dog Ramps
Jumping onto the couch or into the car might have been a breeze in their younger years, but senior dogs often need a little extra help. Luckily, a sturdy, non-slip dog ramp can make it easier for them to reach their favorite spots without putting strain on their joints. There are plenty of dog-friendly ramps that will make getting Fido onto the couch or in and out of your vehicle a breeze!
Pet Stairs
If a ramp takes up too much space, pet stairs are a great alternative for helping your dog reach higher areas like the bed or couch. Look for ones with wide, cushioned steps for added comfort and stability. Some pet stairs even come with removable, washable covers, making them easy to clean and maintain.
Dog Strollers
For pups who still love adventure but can’t handle long walks anymore, a dog stroller can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a trip to the park or just a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood, a stroller lets your senior dog enjoy the sights and smells of the outdoors without overexerting themselves.
Create Slip-Free Flooring
Slippery floors are tough on older dogs, especially for dogs with joint issues such as arthritis. If your home has hard floors such as linoleum or hardwood, you may notice your senior pup slipping more frequently while they try to get around. To prevent this, add area rugs or non-slip mats to your home. This is an easy way to provide traction for your furry friend around the house, which will reduce slips and injuries.
Simplify Your Home’s Furniture Arrangements
Ever notice your dog getting stuck behind furniture, running into walls, or seeming cautious while navigating your living room? As they age and experience cognitive decline or impaired vision, tight spaces or obstacles can make it difficult to get from room to room. Rearranging furniture to create broad, clear pathways can help your senior pup feel more confident walking from room to room.
However, be wary of making drastic changes to your home’s layout. Many senior dogs rely on their memory of spaces to navigate them, which is why extreme changes in furniture placements may confuse your furry friend. If you think this might be the case with your dog, make small changes instead. A simple way to do this is to avoid leaving extra items out on the floor in areas where Fido typically walks.
Keep Fido’s Belongings Accessible
Make sure your dog’s essentials, like food, water, and bedding, are easy to reach. To make it easy for your pup to eat, avoid placing their bowls on slippery surfaces. Dog owners should also consider using elevated dog feeder bowls to reduce dogs’ neck strain. Additionally, make sure you keep your senior pup’s bed in a quiet area where they can rest comfortably. If they have favorite toys, put them in spots that don’t require much effort to retrieve.
Watching our dogs grow older can be bittersweet, but making their home more accessible is one of the best ways to show them how much we love them. Whether it’s adding a few non-slip rugs or investing in a dog stroller for their daily adventures, these small changes show just how much you love and care for them. After all, they’ve spent their whole lives making us happy—now it’s our turn to return the favor!
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