I talk to my dogs, I tell them what I’d like them to do, and I ask them questions.
Whenever I do this while I’m on the phone with my mother she always laughs, and asks if they understand what I’m saying. Of course they do is my standard reply, and it’s the truth!!
When I tell her the dogs are telling me something, she laughs even harder.
We never grew up with any pets, so living with animals is something foreign to her. It’s tough for her to grasp the fact they can understand what we’re saying, and they have lots to say in return.
So what are the important things YOUR senior dog is trying to tell you?
This list comes straight from a very trustworthy source – the love of my life, my own senior dog Red.
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1) I may be old but I still want to enjoy my life
I don’t know why so many humans think just because we’re old we’d rather lie around on our beds all day. How boring is that!!
It’s true many of us do it, but a lot of the times it’s because we’re bored out of our minds and don’t have the energy to move.
Take me out for walks (even if I want to go at a really slow pace and hobble along), play with me (here are some ideas), and don’t leave me behind while the rest of you are out having a great time.
2) We both need exercise
I know just hearing the word makes you tired, and after working all day you want to sit yourself down and relax.
Hey I hear you, I’m happy lying next to you on the couch, but the less active I am, the less active I become.
Old dogs still need exercise. As they say, “Move it or lose it.”
Plus, you and I are going to get fat (you’re always complaining your clothes don’t fit!!) and sick without regular walks and activity.
Not to mention our brain cells will start to die without some mental stimulation.
If you think your dog might be too old to walk, this article will help dispel some myths about walking with a senior dog.
3) I still love to eat as much, but my metabolism isn’t what it used to be
You know what I’m saying, because the same thing happens to humans.
I already mentioned the need to move our butts more, but I think it’s time to check my portion sizes, or find a better senior dog food for me that’s filling but less fatty.
4) I don’t need a treat every time you look at me!
Is it guilt or because I’m so darn cute?
Whatever the reason, it really isn’t necessary to give me a treat every time you see me.
Maybe if I did something to deserve it… but otherwise get your hand out of the treat jar!
If you insist, find something healthier like a piece of apple, pear or carrot to much on.
There are a lot of other ways you can show me your love without making me fat.
5) I feel the cold more than I used to
I admit I always thought sweaters and coats were for sissies, but now I think it’s time you went shopping. It’s an activity you love so there’s no real effort is there!
I beg you not to dress me up in dresses or ridiculous outfits, let’s be practical about this. A sweater or light jacket in the house would be great though!
Could you also check the temperature in the room I’m sleeping in? Make sure the central heating is on, or at least add a heater so I can stay warm.
Oh yeah two more things:
A nice fleece blanket on my bed would be great, because if I’m chilly I could always wrap myself up in it.
A self-warming mat for the bed would be helpful too thank you!
The colder it is outside, the more help I will need to stay warm both indoors and when we go for walks (yes, we should still go).
Please check out these tips for keeping old dogs warm and protected in the winter months.
6) I can’t see or hear you as well as I used to
It’s true I may have ignored you at times in my youth, but that’s because I was perfectly happy doing what I was doing and if I’m honest, you were being a bit of a buzz kill.
Unfortunately that’s not the case anymore, it’s because I can’t hear you as well.
How about training me with hand signals, this way I’ll still understand what you want me to do, and it will be fun to do some tricks again.
Of course I may still ignore you at times because I’m busy!
If you think hearing loss is my problem, read this article about helping an old dog who is going deaf.
If you’ve noticed me starting to walk into things, maybe stumbling, or even lifting my legs like a prancing pony when I walk, it’s because I’m starting to lose my sight.
I would appreciate it if you didn’t just assume it’s a natural part of the aging process and let things progress.
Please take me to the eye doctor not the vet, because as great as he is, he’s no expert in the field and perhaps something could be done to save my sight.
Read More –> What to Do If Your Old Dog Is Going Blind
It would suck if I couldn’t see you anymore!
7) I’m not an idiot!
You know all those dog forums and Facebook groups you belong to, looking for tips on how to disguise all those disgusting medications you’re trying to give me? I hate to break it to you but you ain’t foolin’ me!
I know they’re in there, and sometimes I spit the food out because I’m pissed you’re not being honest. Other times I give in because I know how hard you’re trying.
If you’re hell bent on getting those things into us…
Read this –> The Best Way To Give Your Dog Medication
8) Sometimes I’m in pain
I hate the thought of slowing down and not being able to chase everything in sight, but we’re all getting older and I’m not immune to that condition called aging.
If you see me struggling to get up, not walking as far or as quickly, or lying in bed more than is normal, assume I’m in pain and get me some relief!
I’m not wild about drugs but if it helps bring them on, but I would appreciate some natural solutions as well.
Being old, and sometimes uncomfortable, doesn’t mean I shouldn’t still be able to move around though.
Take me for shorter walks, some swimming would be great, and if there is a stroller that suits my body shape, one of those would be helpful.
We can still enjoy going out, and I get to take a break when I need to without cutting our excursions short.
Read this –> What Is The Best Natural Arthritis Pain Relief For Dogs
9) My world revolves around you
I know you have friends, family, hobbies, a career, responsibilities and your new found hobby of knitting that is taking time away from everything in your life, but all I have is you.
I know you have to leave me sometimes but my whole world revolves around you, and I love you no matter what.
That includes the days when you’re moody and maybe even a little less patient with me.
You are my bestie, and I like to think I’m yours too.
10) I rely on you to adapt to my changing needs
If you notice I can’t jump onto the couch easily anymore buy me some stairs, and if I’m not seeing as well, make sure those kids don’t leave anything in my path.
I have to rely on you to adapt to my changing needs.
That also means taking me to the vet more often so he can catch something before it becomes too serious.
What can I say, I have a lot of things still left to accomplish!
11) Don’t get mad at me for your mixed signals
You can’t get mad at me for begging at the table, when you’re the one who oh so casually puts their hand under the table during dinner and slips me some chicken.
When I bark for more you yell at me. What’s up with that?
12) I need some personal space!
I am beyond grateful for the amazing care you take of me, and I know there are times when you have to make a lot of sacrifices.
I know you want that purse but you spend the money on me instead. Or you want to go out with friends but you are worried about leaving me home alone.
Honestly though, even though I am grateful, sometimes you drive me nuts!!
It’s true I’ve told you I don’t like to be left alone too much, but once in awhile could you stop staring at me?
I know you are having trouble coping with my inevitable death so you are constantly watching to make sure I’m still breathing, but if you don’t give me a bit of alone time, even just a few minutes, I will have to report you as a stalker.
13) Sometimes I get confused
Cognitive changes happen, even dementia can happen to senior dogs, and believe me it’s not fun.
I may forget my house training and have an accident, I may start wandering aimlessly, or even seem to not know who you are.
Take me to the vet and if he thinks it’s dementia make sure you leave there with drugs and suggestions for natural treatments. I know for sure they’re out there and they can help.
I may need some help eating or even finding my bowl, so hold it up for me and help me.
You may have to cover your floor with pee pads, or other things to help manage my potty accidents, and I know it will give you a migraine but it’s for me!!
Read this –> How To Treat Dementia In A Dog Naturally
14) I’m starting to feel some anxiety and fear now
Whether it’s because my senses are failing me, I’m experiencing pain, or some other aging related issue, I am feeling a bit more anxious or frightened now.
There are ways you can help me though:
- Prepare a quiet space for me to go to if the house gets too noisy
- Play games with me and give me puzzles to figure out to help keep my brain functioning
- Cover your beautiful slippery floors with some rugs or yoga mats. It’s very disconcerting to be sliding all over the place and not being able to get my footing
- Sit with me on the couch and wrap me in a blanket because it will comfort me
- If you have to leave me alone could you get someone to stay with me for company?
- Valerian, Scullcap with Valerian, calming music, a Thundershirt and a plug in pheromone diffuser could help me feel less anxious.
15) I am a great listener
I never told anyone there were times you would hug me and cry when you were sad, and I didn’t mind getting all wet because all I wanted to do was be there for you.
Always remember I’m still here for you, and I can comfort you as well as I ever did.
16) I still need to be pampered
No matter how old I get I still need a bath, I need my nails cut and if my hair grows, I need a trim.
Remember, you’re not the only one who wants to look good!
I would love for you to brush my hair while I snuggle next to you, but if you could buy a soft brush that would be great.
17) Sometimes I need a nap
I’ve caught you napping on the couch plenty of times, and I may need a nap on occasion as well.
I appreciate you keeping me active, believe me I do, but make sure you schedule in some down time so I can get some rest.
18) Please don’t abandon me because I’m old
I know many of my brothers and sisters from other mothers are being left in shelters when they get old.
Please don’t do that to me.
I’ve loved you ever since the day we met, and you should love me until the day I have to say goodbye.
19) Don’t deprive yourself of another dog
Don’t say you’ll never adopt another dog because it’s too heart breaking to say goodbye.
So many of my senior dog pals weren’t as lucky as I was, so please give them a home in my honor…and memory
20) Don’t fall apart when I’m gone
I know you’re going to cry and blubber, crawl into bed and pull the covers over your head and disappear for awhile.
I understand, we had such an incredible bond and I couldn’t have asked for a better home.
Take the time you need to grieve, but not too much!!
I will be over the rainbow bridge playing with all those who got here before me, and ready to greet those who will come after me.
Celebrate how lucky you were to have had me in your life.
Oh here we go with the waterworks. I knew my mom would blubber like an idiot when she wrote this last paragraph!!
I asked her to do me one little favor, help me write this list, and now she’s in a state, hugging me so hard I can’t breathe.
I hope this list has helped you understand me, and my needs as an old dog better. Now lets make the most of the time we have together!
How To Treat Dementia In A Dog Naturally
Oh my, these points are so true and heart breaking. Such a well written piece and one everyone should read when they get a dog, because every dog will, hopefully become a senior dog and maybe we’d see less in shelters!
I was crying by the end of it, that’s for sure. If only more people would change their attitudes towards senior dogs, we would absolutely see a lot less of them entering, and not exiting, shelters.
My Lucy is my best friend ive ever had . She will turn 16 in August. Starting to age fast , I’m not ready for her to go . I’m a 53 yr old man,that starts to cry everytime I even think of her not being with me. Not sure how to do this
I understand 💯 I have two right now one is 8 and one is 2 1/2 and the thought makes me cry too. Losing dogs for me has been the worst pain, worse then losing a parent or family. It is physical in my chest. This made me cry by the end. I wish everyone would read this.
Wonderful advice. We need to change and adapt just as our senior pets do and learn to give them the full life they deserve, even if we have to adapt.
Thank you Anita. Just like we have to make certain changes as we age, we need to make sure we do the same for our senior pets.
What a wonderful post. I will have to pin this. These are great pointers. I can relate to some of these you mentioned like: needing assistance to do certain things I used to, or wanting a nap or space. Sometimes we want to smother them with hugs and kisses when they only want some alone /me time. I really like the last two points too. As a grieving pet parent it’s difficult (for some) to get another pet when you had such a unique special bond with the one that passed on. But you are right our pets definitely lived life to the fullest and only what us to do the same. Never stop living life and sharing the love, especially with another animal in need of a furever home. Great post.
Thank you Kamira, and thanks for pinning it! The last two points are the tough ones for sure, but we can definitely learn a lot from our animals like living in the moment and living life to the fullest.
So right about the part watching every move and breathe worrying and waiting for that horrid moment ! Forgetting to enjoy the time left worrying about what’s coming next ! Some great pointers
I can’t say enough about how great this post is! You give so many important tips & insights, and it is so well written. Just beautiful. Thank you.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
Thanks Cathy, that’s so nice of you to say. I must admit it was a bit emotional to write.
I can feel the emotion in it Hindy. It was quite humorous as well, which had me laughing out loud!
Thanks Cathy…glad you enjoyed it!
I love this post so much! I’ve always loved old dogs, but as I’m getting up there in years, I have more empathy than ever.
I’m so glad Beth.
This is such a sweet post. My childhood pets are getting older and these points are so true. Your last couple of points brought tears to my eyes. Great advice.
Thanks! I did have tears streaming down my face at the end.
Well Hindy, sounds like you were crying when you finished writing, and now I’m crying as I finished reading. Beautifully written point-of-view combined with sound advice for any senior dog parent or potential senior dog parent.
Thanks very much Irene. I thought it might be more impactfull if Red wrote it!!
This is a wonderful list. I had to laugh about the “idiot” one. No dog is an idiot. Mixed signals can be very frustrating. I don’t usually wish dogs could speak English but sometimes I do.
Dogs are very clever, and I constantly marvel at how smart mine are!!
Reading these points brought my previous dog back to life…she talked to me also. It is so hard to let them go and to see them age and fade away…but their memory is so fresh. I need a kleenex.
It is impossible to let them go, and boy do we have to garner every ounce of strength to say it’s time. I went through a few while writing it!
Such a wonderful article!! I can relate to all of these things and like most people here, I find myself tearing up in the end not only for my current fur babies, who are now getting up in age, but also my previous angels. They were the loves of my life, I think about them all the time even though it’s been so many years and I really think they live on through my current babies. One of the things that drew me to read this was the photo. That is my Logan to a T! He is a white boxer and he’s always giving his paw, when he does that it means he wants something, it’s adorable. Sometimes however I can’t figure out what he wants and he won’t quit! It drives me crazy! He’s been fed, has water, the door is open so he can go out…yet he sits and paws at me and just stares at me! These are the times I wish they could talk!!
I know what you mean. The years may pass but we still find ourselves thinking about animals we’ve said goodbye to who were such a big part of our lives. I hope you finally figure out what Logan is trying to tell you, they can be so persistent!
Oh my goodness…my eyes are all teary with that last one…wow…but I need to hear that. Right now we are having one of our Huskies who is declining, but still happy, and is really a wonderful senior. Her growing pain is heartbreaking, but I am managing it right now naturally. I pray it helps her for a while to come yet. It’s gut-wrenching to think she won’t be here…but, that last one on your list got me…right in the feels. I will try to remember those words when I need to…we really just do not have our beloved dogs here long enough. Just never long enough. But having your resource really does help. xo
I sobbed my way through a few of my posts while writing them. How’s your pup doing? I actually thought about her the other day, but didn’t want to intrude on your time together. As you know Red was a very wise girl, so it pays to follow her advice!
This is an absolutely FABULOUS post! It perfectly says what everyone should know about their senior pets. You did a terrific job. There’s a lot of passion and thought you put into it and I can tell and feel it. Well done!
I’m sharing it with my dog friends. 😊💖🐶
Thanks Terri. Senior dogs are so special and we owe our pets the best care and compassion we can as they age.
Sometimes when my dog has been out, fed and has water, but comes and stands and looks at me, he just wants me to hold him. I know there are times just being held or hugs gives me a better attitude or feeling to get on with my day.
Some dogs truly love being held! That’s why it is so important to learn their body language and how to recognize when they are starting to feel uncomfortable.
As a 70 year old man who’s had our boarder collie for close to 13 years, i sat and cried reading your list! It’s so hard to watch her grow old, legs give out but she still chasing her frisbee, so happy to go on walks! Wow my wife and I love this wonderful dog so much!!
Thanks for reminding us how to love her as she gets older!!
It sounds like she is living her best life!