Golden Souls, Gray Faces: 5 Ways to Keep Your Senior Dog’s Brain Sharp

Name their toys

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The old saying “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is misleading. Not only can you teach older dogs a few new moves, but it will help them stay sharp.

A fun way to keep your older dog’s mind in shape – or your younger pup, for that matter – is to name their toys.

Start with just one toy until they recognize the name and bring it to you when you tell them to. Then keep adding a few until your dog knows them all by name.

Feed them well

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Many veterinarians and professional dog trainers agree that a good diet will help an older dog live an optimal life. In addition, your senior dog’s nutritional needs will change as they age from adulthood to their golden years.

Make sure the food you feed your dog is high in vitamins C and E, along with selenium, beta-carotene and omega-3 fatty acids.

To find out which senior dog food is best for your aging pup, here’s what you need to do: consult your vet. Always consult your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet or introducing new foods.

Stay as physically active as possible

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Just like with humans, exercise not only benefits dogs physically, but also mentally.

Your older dog may move more slowly than at a younger age, but there are still lots of activities you can join them. Try taking short walks in less crowded areas, fetch, or other activities that your senior dog normally enjoys.

Keep in mind that your senior dog will most likely be more sensitive to temperature extremes and crowds when you take him outside. Check the weather and time of day and prepare accordingly.

Play hide and seek

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Letting your dog use his nose to find a hidden treasure, such as his favorite toy or treat, stimulates all the senses and creates a positive bond between the two of you.

To teach your older pup how to play hide and seek, first instruct him to sit down and hide the prize in an obvious place so he can see where you put it. Then give them a release signal to start looking for the toy.

Once they find the toy, reward them generously. As your dog becomes familiar with the rules, you can make the exercise more difficult by hiding or treating the toy in another room or under something.

Get creative and hide the treats in cardboard boxes, between couch cushions or in different parts of your home.

Buy a toy that is easy on the jaw

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Your senior dog may have liked to tear even the toughest toys to shreds when he was a kid, but he may now be discouraged from playing with such rough toys.

Grab your dog a Kong or other soft rubber toy that is gentle on his jaws and will last a lifetime. To encourage play, feel free to fill the Kong with a tasty filling as a bonus.