Fun Activities For Senior Dogs

Just because your dog is older doesn’t mean they’ve seen it all. Taking them to experience new smells is a great way to work their nose and give them some mental stimulation without requiring much energy.

Try playing scent work games with them or hide treats around the house (just be sure to factor in extra treat calories into their daily calorie budget). Hide and seek is also a fun activity for senior dogs.

1. Go for a Walk

Walking is something that most dogs love to do no matter their age. It gets them out in the fresh air, smelling new scents, and enjoying time with their person. Just be sure to avoid letting them get too overtired, as this can cause them to become stiff and more prone to injury.

If you’re going to go on a long walk, make sure they have access to a water source and a safe place to lie down in case of an emergency. If they’re too frail for the long walks you used to take together, consider using a wagon or stroller to make it easier for them to walk. Walking on grass or sand is better for your dog’s paw pads than asphalt or gravel, and walking up gradual hills can help strengthen their hindquarters.

You can also play games that use your senior dog’s amazing sense of smell. One easy example is hiding treats around the room for your pet to find with their nose. You can even purchase a snuffle mat for indoor play.

2. Take a Swim

For dogs who are natural swimmers or those who can be taught to swim, swimming is a great form of exercise. It provides a cardiovascular workout and is low-impact on the joints, making it ideal for senior dogs. Swimming also helps strengthen muscles and reduces pain by strengthening cartilage, bones, and joints.

Playing fetch is another great activity that can help keep seniors active. Try adjusting the distance of your throws as your dog ages to make sure they can still have fun while staying safe. You can also use scent games like hiding treats or using a puzzle toy such as the Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Puzzle Dog Toy to help stimulate your senior pooch’s brain and sense of smell.

Just like humans, senior dogs need regular physical activity to stay healthy and active. By introducing your senior dog to activities gradually and carefully, you can ensure that they remain fit and happy. Whether that’s playing fetch, swimming or even just going for a car ride together. They’ll love the attention and care you give them!

3. Have a Birthday Party

Just because your dog is a senior doesn’t mean they should stop having fun. Just follow their lead when it comes to activity length, and try new activities that can keep them limber, prevent weight gain, and provide mental stimulation. Exercise can be a great way to improve mobility, prevent joint pain, and even help with anxiety.

If you’re looking for some new puppy-themed activities, consider hosting a pup party. Whether it’s your pet’s birthday or their “gotcha” day, invite their favorite people and dogs over for cake, drinks, and doggie presents.

You can also create a special photo booth for the occasion. Use a backdrop and props that your dog likes, and take some snaps to share online. If you want to get more creative, make a dog-friendly banner or toss some dog-friendly confetti around the room. And of course, no dog party is complete without a hat. If your pet isn’t a fan of hats, you can also dress them in a cute dog bandana or bowtie instead.

4. Take a Photo Shoot

Taking photos of your senior dog can help you capture all the little quirks and things they love. Whether that’s having their ears blow dried or loving to shred paper, capturing these moments of your best friend can make for great memories for years to come.

During the photo shoot, let your senior pup guide you. Often, as they get older, they need more time to rest and may not be up for long walks or trips away from home. That’s perfectly fine! Photograph them in their favorite place such as the back garden or even their bed.

Ultimately, what’s important is to capture the essence of your senior dog. Whether that’s their silly personality, goofiness, or seriousness. Or perhaps the way they always give you a belly rub. Whatever it is, that’s what will make them feel loved and cherished.

5. Go Trick Training

While the thought of a senior dog bucket list may conjure up images of road trips and cross-country adventures, older dogs often enjoy simpler activities. Like their younger counterparts, seniors require mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Playing tug of war is a great way to help your dog engage their front end and core. However, it’s important to switch out your rope toys for something softer as older dogs tend to have less strength and may hurt themselves playing tug.

Try using old t-shirts or even socks that are braided together for a soft but durable tug toy. Alternatively, you can play a game of hide and seek that involves your pet’s extraordinary sense of smell. Ensure that you’re only hiding treats or favourite toys and play this activity on a non-slippery surface to avoid your pet slipping.

Many pet parents also opt for puzzle toys that offer a fun way to keep their dog mentally stimulated. For example, some snuffle mats involve dogs searching through different textures of fabric to find treats that are hidden inside.