Must Have Senior Dog Supplies

I see many lists for new puppy items but few for senior dog supplies.

If you’ve shared your life with your dog since they were a puppy, I’m sure there’s no shortage of supplies in your home.

But have you adapted them to your dog’s changing needs?

If you’ve adopted an older dog, congratulations. You’re amazing, by the way!

Whether your senior dog is a new addition to the family or a family member of many years now aging into their senior years, you will need to do some shopping.

What do senior dogs need? How are their needs different from younger dogs?

Based on my experience living with and caring for seniors, I put together this list. It includes all the necessary items to keep your dog as healthy and comfortable as possible.

This list is extensive, but don’t worry… it doesn’t mean you have to get everything!

Last Updated: May 31, 2024

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links (Amazon Associate or other programs we participate in). As an affiliate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Comfort

Older dogs may feel the cold more than their younger counterparts. Plus, senior dogs often experience more aches and pains.

With these two points in mind, we’ll start our list of senior dog supplies with a few key items to keep your aging dog comfortable.

Coats and Sweaters

Whether your dog needs a coat or sweater will depend mainly on the temperature and the amount of fur it has.

Some dog breeds, like the husky, are comfortable in colder temperatures than others.

People in more northern climates are more likely to encounter problems with cold temperatures than those in the south.

There are many different styles to choose from, such as parka-style winter coats and fleece sweaters.

If you’re crafty, you can also crochet your own dog sweater.

Warming Mats: Self-Heating or Electric

Another way to keep your dog warm on a cool night is to have a warming pad on their bed.

These are available in a self-heating style or electrical. The choice is yours, but be careful of cords if your dog is a chewer.

Dog Beds for Senior Dogs

If your dog is experiencing joint pain, an orthopedic bed may provide the comfort they are looking for.

Some also come with magnets, which you may have heard are used to help relieve pain in people with human arthritis.

These can be purchased as a flat mat or with three sides raised so they can lean against them like a pillow.

A Big Comforter

Another option for a relaxation spot is to give your dog a single or double comforter.

I don’t know about your dogs, but my senior dogs have always liked variety. If they weren’t in the mood for one style of bed, there was always another to try.

A comforter is poufy yet flexible enough for them to shape into the perfect little nest.

Fleece Blankets

Comfortable and cozy, you can never have too many dog blankets for your aging dog.

By having several available, you will always have one available, even if one or two are currently in the wash.

I keep one on every bed in the cooler months. They are also perfect for cuddles on the couch.

Waterproof Dog Bed Cover

If your dog has accidents, a waterproof dog bed cover or waterproof dog blanket may cut down on the number of times you have to wash the bed.

They also prevent messes from damaging floors or carpets.

Raised Food and Water Bowls

Another aspect of keeping your senior dog comfortable that people often overlook is how difficult it can be to reach down to their food and water bowls.

A raised dish or a platform for your existing food and water dishes will help.

Not only does it eliminate the strain of reaching down, but it can also make the food easier to find if your dog is experiencing vision loss.

Cooling Products for the Hot Weather

This is a must if you live in a hot climate, as senior dogs are at a higher risk of overheating.

These products generally work in one of three ways:

• Product must be frozen before putting them on your dog, keeping them cool as they thaw until they must be frozen again
• Product is wet down and uses evaporative cooling technology to cool your dog down until they are dry and must be wet again to continue use
• Product is pressure activated, cooling when your dog lies down on it

Bandanas and collars are a great option if you’re looking for something small and simple.

Shirts, harnesses, and jackets are often more effective for intense heat as they cover a larger area of the body, including, potentially, your dog’s stomach.

A cooling mat is a great way to set up a cool, comfortable place for your senior dog to nap.

Safety and Mobility

As our dogs age, one of the most common concerns is arthritis or mobility issues.

While there are many steps you can take to manage the pain and discomfort of arthritis naturally and with your veterinarian, there are also products that can help.

Here are a few items you may want to consider to make it easier for your senior dog to get around.

Ramps and Pet Steps

Both products serve the same purpose as a mobility aid, but your choice will depend on your pet’s needs.

A ramp is typically what you want for help getting into the car. Check that the incline isn’t too steep, and be sure it’s foldable for easy storage in your vehicle.

Pet steps are often used to get onto furniture like the couch or bed, as a ramp would take up much more floor space.

However, if your pet’s mobility is severely limited, you may also need to use an indoor ramp.

Dog Stroller

This is my all-time favorite invention and a product I can’t say enough great things about.

Rather than repeating myself, I will direct you to my previous article, where I share 21 reasons why you need to buy a dog stroller.

Non-Slip Socks or Booties

If your dog has mobility issues or is less steady on their feet, non-slip socks or booties may be the answer.

These are great for homes where your senior dog must navigate slippery floors like hardwood or tile.

Toe Grips

Another mobility aid in your arsenal, these rubber toe grips slide over your dog’s nails.

When your dog stands or walks, they connect with the slippery surface and add traction.

Non-Slip Paw Pads

These mobility aids are stickers placed on the bottom of your dog’s feet.

You can place the non-slip paw pad as a single sticker onto each paw or, if you prefer, cut the pad to accommodate each pad on the bottom of your dog’s paw.

They feature a non-slip surface like what you would see on socks or booties.

Carpet Squares or Yoga Mats

If your dog won’t entertain the idea of wearing a pair of booties or socks, you may need to consider a different approach.

A great solution would be covering your slippery floor with carpet squares, runners, or yoga mats.

Wheelchair

Whether your dog has completely lost the use of their legs or is having significant trouble standing and walking on their own, a wheelchair can drastically improve their quality of life.

Sling or Harness

These products are an option in many mobility cases. They make it easier for you to help your dog walk by carrying some of their weight.

Any sling or harness will work for short-term use, but if you plan on using it regularly, I recommend investing in a harness with a comfortable handle or carry strap.

Foam Padding for Table Legs, Chair Legs, and Doors

If you have a blind dog or one suffering from dementia who is confused and occasionally bumps into things, foam padding is a great safety precaution.

Place the foam along any sharp corners or wrap it around potential hazards.

You can likely find foam at the local DIY store or maybe even cut a pool noodle lengthwise and use that.

Adjustable Pen or Safety Gate

If you worry about your dog’s safety when you’re out, an adjustable pen or safety gate will help keep them out of harm’s way.

This will allow you to give them space to roam where it’s safe while limiting their access to areas where they could be at risk.

You can use these to keep them in (or out) of a specific room, keep them from reaching electrical cords around your television, or stop them from being able to use the stairs when they aren’t being supervised.

They come in various sizes, and many pens can also be combined to create as big or small a space as you like.

Bike Basket or Trailer

If you enjoy cycling, a bike basket or trailer is a great way to get out and enjoy the fresh air with your senior dog.

The new sights and smells are also a great way to offer much-needed mental stimulation.

Pet Camera

A pet camera is a great tool for keeping an eye on your senior dog when you’re out.

This is perfect if you’re curious about what they may be doing in your absence or if they aren’t well and you want to check up on them periodically.

Nutrition and Supplements

I can’t discuss senior dog products that support a healthy lifestyle without addressing the power nutrition and supplements have to support their well-being.

This includes both preventative measures to slow the effects of aging and those that will help manage conditions they are already experiencing.

Before changing your dog’s diet or adding supplements, I highly recommend you speak with your veterinarian.

Each dog has unique needs and health considerations that will influence which products are helpful and which do more harm than good.

A Balanced Senior Dog Diet

I always say senior dog nutrition (actually, pet nutrition in general) is an absolute minefield, filled with conflicting information from “experts” and pet parents who are convinced their recommendations are the best.

Senior dogs don’t necessarily need to eat senior dog food. However, they need to be fed a balanced diet to meet their nutritional needs.

I would start with a check-up to determine your dog’s health status and if there are certain foods they should avoid.

It’s not uncommon for there to be some challenges getting a senior dog to eat when they’re not feeling well or suffering from health issues.

Be prepared with a list of possible foods that are safe for your dog if they lose interest in their current diet. This will save you a lot of last-minute scrambling.

Mobility Supplements

In addition to (or instead of, in some cases) the medications your vet may have prescribed for your dog’s joint pain, natural supplements may be helpful.

Starting natural solutions early is a great way to prevent issues later in life.

Some options you may want to consider for your senior dog’s joint health and mobility include:

• Glucosamine
• Chondroitin
• New Zealand Green-Lipped Mussels
• Tumeric Golden Paste
• Bone Broth

While none of these options will magically fix your dog’s mobility problems, they have been known to support good joint health.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

There are many reasons your senior dog may be experiencing stress and anxiety, including Dementia, vision loss, and other significant life changes.

Here are a few options to help:

• Thundershirt
• Adaptil Pheromone Diffuser, Spray, or Collar
• CBD Oil
• Skullcap and Valerian
• Calming Dog Music

You can also try diffusing lavender essential oil for aromatherapy by lighting a tea light and adding a few drops to the melted wax.

But be careful with the lit candle if your dog tends to bump into things.

Physical Exercise and Mental Stimulation

You must ensure that your senior dog has opportunities for physical exercise and mental stimulation for the best possible quality of life.

For some dogs, this will be easy. However, others will need accommodations to make this possible.

Conditions to consider include (but aren’t limited to) mobility challenges, dementia, and vision loss. Luckily, there are products that can help you overcome these hurdles.

Sling or Harness for Extra Support

I mentioned this product already in the mobility section, but it’s worth mentioning again.

If your dog is having trouble walking, please don’t just leave them on their bed to sleep their life away.

In addition to any pain medication, supplements, or physical therapy you may be doing, having a sling or lift harness will give them the extra support they need to get some exercise.

Plus, experts say that physical exercise can actually help with joint pain!

Exercise Indoors

There are times when your dog may not be feeling up to taking a walk or the weather is too miserable to head outside.

Rather than declaring this an “off day,” find exercises to do indoors.

You can try rolling a ball down the hallway for your dog to fetch. If your dog has vision problems, consider a ball that makes noise to make it easier to follow.

Hide and seek is a fun game for the whole family, including children and your dog.

You can create an agility course, even if you don’t have much room.

A broom can be slightly elevated, so your dog has to lift their legs to walk over it. You can also space out pillows on the floor your dog has to walk around.

Home agility sets can also be used but be careful not to push your senior dog too far if they are experiencing any aches and pains.

Make Mealtime Fun with a Snuffle Mat

Snuffle mats are perfect for keeping dogs entertained and are a great option for burning some extra energy. They turn a boring meal into a fun foraging game.

Traditionally, they featured long strips of fabric or fleece to conceal kibble and treats.

However, companies are now releasing fun and creative snuffle mats that incorporate pockets and other hiding places.

You can also make your own by tying strips of fleece to a rubber mat.

As your dog sniffs around the mat to locate their food or treats, they are also challenging their mind.

Try Food Puzzles or Treat Dispensing Toys

Another great tool for mental stimulation, food puzzles and treat dispensing toys challenge your senior dog to perform some action to get their food or treat.

This could include sliders, hidden compartments, or small mazes to reveal their reward.

Try to find a puzzle that is challenging enough to make them work for it but not too hard, or they will lose interest.

Many can be adjusted to various degrees of difficulty with minor changes.

Grooming

The need for grooming isn’t unique to a senior dog. However, as dogs age, they often find it challenging to keep up with their own care and need a little more assistance.

Here are a few products that can help keep your dog looking their best throughout their golden years:

Shampoo and Grooming Wipes

There are plenty of reasons why your dog may not enjoy visiting the groomer as much as they used to in their younger years.

They may find the salon too overwhelming or struggle to stand for any length of time.

Giving your dog a bath at home means keeping them looking and feeling great in the comfort of their own home.

If you still plan to visit the groomer, this can help keep visits shorter and more manageable.

Grooming wipes are also handy for a quick clean when needed.

Dog Brush or Comb

Brushing your dog is a wonderful opportunity to bond and just hang out together. Plus, most dogs love it!

Some senior dogs develop lumps, bumps, and growths, so a soft-bristled brush may be best.

Don’t Forget Dental Care

Caring for your dog’s teeth is as important as caring for your own.

While brushing is considered the ideal way to keep your dog’s teeth clean, not all dogs are comfortable with this.

Luckily, there are many products to help. Here are a few products to consider:

• Toothbrush: There are many styles of toothbrush, including long-handled, electric, and small brushes that fit on your finger.
• Toothpaste: Dog toothpaste comes in a variety of flavors and textures. However, human toothpaste should never be used, as it can contain toxic ingredients.
• Dental Wipes: These small wipes are often less intimidating and great for dogs who don’t like toothbrushes.
• Dental Chews: For dogs who love chewing, these specialty chews help to scrape away plaque and tartar as your dog enjoys the delicious taste.
• Water Additives: These products are added to your dog’s water. They are usually flavorless and scent-free, so your dog doesn’t even realize it’s there.

Household and Cleaning Products

Caring for a dog of any age can lead to messes. Just ask any dog parent who has lived through the muddy spring season.

Here are some products that will help you keep your house tidy while sharing it with a senior dog:

Pee Pads

If your dog has accidents or suffers from incontinence, these are a must-have product for home and on the go.

They can be used to line your dog’s crate or carrier or protect your floor in a favorite sleeping spot.

You can purchase disposable pads, or if you want a more environmentally friendly solution, you can choose reusable, machine-washable options.

Doggie Diapers and Belly Bands

A very popular item for dogs with incontinence, diapers come in both disposable and washable versions.

For male dogs, belly bands sit a little further forward to offer protection where it’s needed.

Many dog parents use a sanitary pad in the diaper for better protection and easier cleaning.

Carpet Stain and Odor Remover

A necessity for cleaning up accidents, a pet-specific cleaner works to eliminate odors like urine and feces.

As with any product, not all are created equal. You may have to try more than one to find what works best for your carpet.

If you prefer natural products, there are plenty on the market, or you can make your own.

Final Thoughts: Senior Dog Supplies

You may wonder what’s so special about this list, as you may already have almost everything on it.

A senior dog is still a dog, and most of the supplies you have for a puppy will be similar to what your dog needs in their golden years.

Having said that, a first-time dog parent or someone who has never raised a senior dog before may find themselves wondering, what do senior dogs need? If so, I hope this list is helpful!

Do you have anything for your senior dog that’s not on this list that you believe should be?

Sharing helps others, so I invite you to comment below with your must-have products.