Caring for an Older Dog Naturally: Wellbeing Beyond the Joints

Hello again!

Over my 40 years as a herbalist, I have had the privilege of watching so many dogs grow from bouncy, mischievous puppies into wise, gentle seniors. When people talk about older dogs, the conversation usually turns to stiff joints and slower walks. Those matter, of course, but caring for an older dog naturally goes much further than mobility.

As dogs age, their minds, their energy, their digestion and their sleep can all change. Here are the gentle, everyday ways I like to support a senior dog from nose to tail.

Supporting an older dog's mind

Some older dogs become a little muddled: wandering at night, staring into corners or forgetting familiar routines. Any change like this deserves a chat with your vet, who can rule out other causes and talk you through what helps.

At home, mental enrichment makes a lovely difference:

• Short sniffing walks, where your dog sets the pace
• Simple puzzle feeders and scatter feeding
• Gentle training games to keep that clever brain busy
• A calm, predictable daily routine

Herbalists traditionally use antioxidant-rich herbs such as rosemary and turmeric as part of everyday support for older dogs.

Energy, stamina and a healthy weight

Older dogs often tire more quickly. Keeping them at a healthy weight is one of the kindest things we can do, as it takes the strain off their whole body. Swap long hikes for two or three shorter walks, and let them sniff as much as they like.

Hawthorn berry is a herb traditionally used by herbalists to support older dogs' circulation and vitality. If your dog is coughing, breathless, fainting or suddenly tiring easily, please see your vet promptly, as these can be signs of heart problems.

Supporting their natural defences

As dogs age, they can take a little longer to bounce back from the knocks of life. Good food, sleep, gentle exercise and a calm home all help. Herbs such as astragalus and echinacea are traditionally used to support the body's natural defences through the seasons.

Liver and kidneys

The liver and kidneys work hard throughout a dog's life. Many vets recommend regular senior health checks with blood and urine tests, which can pick up changes early. If your dog is drinking or weeing more than usual, losing weight or going off their food, please see your vet, and always check with them before giving herbs to a dog with a known liver or kidney condition.

Happy tummies in the golden years

Digestion can become more sensitive with age. Smaller, more frequent meals, a good-quality diet suited to their age and plenty of fresh water all help. Slippery elm is one of my oldest favourites: it has been used for generations to support digestive comfort.

Gentle herbal support for seniors

My Old Dog Herbal Powder is a hand-blended mix of herbs I put together especially for older dogs, designed to support their everyday wellbeing. It simply stirs into food. Do let your vet know about any herbs you give, especially if your dog is on medication.

Elaine's tips for starting herbs with an older dog

1. Talk to your vet first, especially if your dog takes any medication, so you can be sure nothing clashes.
2. Start small and go slowly. Introduce one thing at a time and build up over a week or two.
3. Keep a wellbeing diary. Note their energy, sleep, appetite, mood and toilet habits. Your dog will tell you a lot through their eyes and their tail.

When to call your vet

Natural support sits alongside veterinary care, not instead of it. Please see your vet if your older dog has any sudden change in behaviour, appetite, thirst, weight, breathing or toilet habits, any new lumps, or seems to be in discomfort.

Final thoughts

Growing old gracefully is a partnership between attentive care, thoughtful food, gentle exercise and regular vet checks, with a little support from nature along the way. Our older dogs have given us their whole lives. Keeping them comfortable, content and bright is the loveliest thank-you we can give them.

Natural love & care,

Elaine, The Dog Herbalist