Anyone who’s had a dog pass away on them can tell you it’s not an easy thing to deal with, but unfortunately, it’s an inevitability. However, there are plenty of steps that you can take to ensure that your dog lives the longest, healthiest life that it can. That’s why we’ve made a list on 

Regular Checkups

You probably already take your dog to the vet once every year or so for their shots, but once they get older, it’s important to start going more frequently for a standard checkup. Just like people, dogs gain more problems with age, so taking them to the vet more often will help detect potential issues before they fully develop. If you discover a possible threat, your dog will have a better chance of pulling through in the end.

Exercise Whenever Possible

Once again, just like people, exercise can help your old boy or girl stay in better shape than they normally would at their age. Sometimes they need encouragement, though. Simply leaving them outside in the backyard won’t do anything if they spend all their time out there sunbathing.

Instead, go on a walk or run with your dog. This will force them to be more active. Plus, you’ll spend more quality time together. Dog parks are a good option, too, since the other pups out there will inspire your dog to run around and play.

Plenty of Sleep

If they’re getting the exercise they need, then this point becomes even more critical. Dogs of all ages need a proper amount of sleep, so making sure your old one has the things they need to do so is important for their overall health. Young dogs can sleep just about anywhere, but older ones get pickier as they get weaker. If your dog has arthritis on top of being old, you might need to look into getting them an orthopedic bed. These beds will benefit them in many ways.

Proper Diet

The food you feed your dog is always essential for their wellbeing, but if you want to prolong their life, this is one of the best ways to properly care for an old dog. Be sure to research the different dog food brands and what they offer. Read online reviews to see which brands other dog owners prefer. There are plenty of options out there that are favorable for older dogs.

Spend Time With Them

There’s obviously no conclusive proof that says spending more time with your pup will prolong their life, but it certainly won’t hurt. Your dog loves you just as much as you love them, so spend as much time with them as possible. Cherish the moments you still have together. That way, when their time comes, you won’t feel like you wasted a single second with them.