Expert tips on how to keep ageing dogs active

A leading expert on human/animal relations says just because a dog is slowing down, doesn't mean they have lost their zest for life.

Olivia De Santos - an anthropologist who studies communication between animals and humans - says while dogs do slow down as they age, playtime is still important.

"Dogs of all ages love to play, dogs of all abilities have the capacity to play and all dogs need to play to stay connected to their owners and feel mentally stimulated," she said.

"As your dog gets older, it's a case of finding the right activities that work for both of you."

Olivia said while older dogs do have less energy, and in some cases start to lose their hearing, sight, smell and mobility, there were still ways to keep them connected to their human companions and engaged with life.

So how can we help them age gracefully? Olivia says it's a question of nuance.

Here are some helpful tips:

As much as we might enjoy playing fetch with our dogs, Olivia says it should be the first thing to go when reassessing how to spend playtime.

"Even if your dog enjoys retrieving, fetch can worsen mobility issues and even cause joint pain due to the impact of hitting the ground after flying through the air," she said.

She said soccer was a great alternative, as it still offers the thrill of the chase, but involves less jumping and allows dogs to go at their own pace.

Nose games can be an excellent source of fun and engagement for dogs of all ages - including those who are less mobile.

Olivia said nose games encourage dogs to use their foraging instinct, which rarely goes away, even as they age.

Nose games can also be a great means of engaging dogs who are losing their sight, and there are plenty of games to choose from.

"One of our favourite pre-made nose games is the simple snuffle mat," Olivia said.

"A snuffle mat is usually made of a series of colourful felt pockets. You hide treats in the pockets and it's your dog's job to find them.

"They come in all shapes and sizes customised to the size of your dog."

Those wanting a simpler game may want to try this one - all it requires is a hand and a treat, such as a piece of sausage.

"Just conceal the treat in one of your palms out of sight of your dog. Present your two fists to your dog and let them choose which one has the treat."

There are plenty of interactive toy and puzzle games which are great ways to engage dogs, often relying heavily on nose skills.

Olivia said one game involved concealing a treat using a flat block in two pieces, challenging the dog to move the correct piece in order to get the reward.

Other similar games are more sophisticated, requiring dogs to move blocks in specific sequences in order to get to the prize.

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"Your dog needs some sight and smell senses, but even partially blind dogs can do puzzle games," Olivia said.

"Start with the easiest dog puzzle games and work your way up. If the game is too difficult, your dog will get frustrated and not enjoy playing.

While it's natural for dogs to tire quicker and feel some stiffness in the joints as they get older, Olivia said there are still ways to get them moving.

She said swimming was a great way to provide good exercise, was also soothing your dogs joints by allowing them to feel weightless in the water.

Agility courses are another fun option.

"You can adapt the challenge to your dog's needs. Weave poles, step jumps and tunnels are great ways to exercise and mentally stimulate your dog " she said.

"Just go at their pace to keep them engaged."

Olivia said play was a great way of helping dogs maintain that special bond with their owner.

"To keep that spark alive, try one of the adapted ways to play with your dog we suggested," Olivia said.

"You might find a game that is perfect for you both in this next wonderful phase of life."

For more information on some great interactive toys you can get for your dog click HERE.