Senior Dog Care
Essential information for dogs entering their golden years
Did you know dogs are considered senior at different ages depending on their size?
You might ask, when exactly does a dog become a senior?
- Small dogs (up to 10 kg): from age 10
- Medium dogs (10–30 kg): from age 8
- Large dogs (over 30 kg): from age 6
(Yes—this is not a mistake. Larger dogs age faster!)
As dogs age, they become more prone to chronic health conditions. With proactive care, we can help your dog stay comfortable, mobile, and happy for as long as possible. Even if your dog seems fine, some age-related issues develop gradually and may go unnoticed.
Common senior dog health problems
- Osteoarthritis
- Kidney disease
- Cognitive dysfunction (doggy dementia)
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Dental disease
- Tumors or lumps
Dogs are often stoic and can hide pain or discomfort. That’s why early detection is key—subtle changes in appetite, behaviour, or movement can be early warning signs.
Our recommendations for senior care
- Two senior check-ups per year
- Annual blood-work and urine analysis
- If needed, we may recommend additional diagnostics, such as a heart ultrasound or joint X-rays.
During a senior consult, we do a full physical exam and ask targeted questions about your dog’s energy levels, appetite, behaviour, and mobility. This allows us to detect changes early and support your dog with appropriate treatment or lifestyle adjustments.
Could your dog have arthritis?
Take our quick online screening:
dierenkliniekrivierenbuurt.com/landing/osteoarthritis/dog/
You’ll also find a flyer with more information about arthritis in dogs in this bag.
Tailored nutrition for senior dogs
As dogs age, their metabolism, digestion, and nutritional needs change. The right diet can support organ function, reduce inflammation, and maintain a healthy weight.
We use FeedWise, a veterinary nutrition tool developed by pet nutrition specialist Esther Plantinga. With it, we assess:
- Whether your dog’s current food still meets their needs
- If portion sizes are appropriate for age and weight
- What food is best if your dog has specific medical needs
Need advice?
We can do a quick food calculation or schedule a full nutrition consultation.
Don’t forget preventive care: VetPlan®
Our VetPlan® offers affordable preventive care tailored to your dog’s needs. It includes regular health checks, vaccinations, deworming, flea & tick control, and discounts on consultations and nutrition advice.
More info is in the VetPlan flyer in this bag, or visit:
dierenkliniekrivierenbuurt.com/preventive/care-plan/
Want to book a senior check-up or have questions?
Visit: https://dierenkliniekrivierenbuurt.com/make-an-appointment/
Your team at Dierenkliniek Rivierenbuurt
Let’s give your dog a healthy and happy old age—together.