Gifts for Senior Dogs
As dogs age, they become a bit hesitant to chase a ball or empty out a food stuffed toy. With the holidays approaching, check out these gifts for senior dogs. Older dogs will sure to love one of these Christmas gifts.
Thick Orthopedic Bed
Seniors dogs certainly enjoy and appreciate a super soft bed. Depending on your senior dog’s size, choose a supportive orthopedic bedding for medium and large dogs. Smaller dogs enjoy fluffy comfort too, and enjoy snuggling into clamshell beds (i.e. beds with a cover). With that said, some larger dogs enjoy snuggling into large-sized clamshell beds too! Of course, make sure your senior dog’s new bed has a removable cover in case of accidents.
Fleece Blanket
All dogs enjoy thick fleece blankets, but seniors enjoy them just a tad more. Choose machine-washable twin- or queen-sized fleece blankets, and cover your dog’s bed with comfort. During colder months, cover your dog’s favorite napping spot with thick fleece blankets. Don’t forget to bring a fleece blanket during your senior dog’s next vet visit!
Boxes for Nosework Games
Senior dogs still need exercise and mental stimulation, so keep all of those Amazon boxes lying around. Once a day, place several empty boxes in a room and fill one box with a few treats. Open the door and let your senior dog wander around and hunt for treats. When treats are located and gobbled up, reset the “food” box with treats, and then place the “food” box in a different spot in the room. If your senior dog follows you around, toss a couple of treats over a baby gate and reset boxes, then let your senior dog back in to hunt. Check out additional details on playing nose work games here.
Ramp
Arthritis and painful joints are common as dogs age, and climbing into cars, beds, couches or stairs becomes difficult. Invest in a sturdy dog ramp to make it easier for your dog to climb up or down from furniture, stairs or vehicles. Small and medium dogs can be easily picked up, but it’s more difficult for larger dogs. With so many portable ramps available that attach to SUVs or that easily fold up, they make a great gift for senior dogs. Check out this DIY ramp version.
Senior dogs are such a treasure. Give them extra cuddles during this holiday season!