Fortunately, older dogs don't comiserate about every ache and pain (thank goodness), but this means you need to check your dog frequently between veterinary visits, usually while grooming, to detect ear and eye problems early and to notice any changes in skin condition. Most skin tumors or fleshy tumors are harmless, but they should be checked by your veterinarian. Unless they are causing discomfort for your dog or indicate a problem by increasing in size, they can usually be left alone. Just be careful not to irritate them when grooming.

Keep your pet in proper weight. Has your older dog become a couch potato? Slower metabolism and less activity may make your older dog prone to weight gain. Dogs more than 15% above their optimum weight are susceptible to a number of problems, including heart disease, liver disease, joint problems and skin conditions, so it is important to keep your older dog in trim shape.

Many pet food manufacturers now offer specially formulated dog foods for senior canines, which have fewer calories and less fat. Likewise, more products are becoming available for older dogs who lose weight as they get older. Your dog may have less appetite due to a decrease in his senses of smell and taste. He may also suffer from less efficient digestion as he gets older. Pet food manufacturers continue to create new products that are more palatable and digestible for your old friend.

In either case, you can still pamper your elderly pooch with low-calorie treats for the overweight dog, and all-natural, easily digested treats for the underweight dog.

Provide Moderate Exercise. Has your older dog become sedentary, or does he still romp as rambunctiously as he did in his glory days? Do not allow your older dog to overexert himself! This can strain muscles and joints, as well as affect the function of his internal organs. However, moderate exercise will help keep his joints flexible, muscles supple and weight in check, as well as promote a healthy heart and lungs.

Provide Regular Dental Care. Just because your dog is getting a little long in the tooth doesn't mean gum disease and bacterial infections are inevitable. Dogs can't wear dentures, so it's important to keep your dog's teeth in his mouth as long as possible! The loss of teeth can cause problems with eating and digestion, and infections can circulate to other parts of his body to cause more serious health problems.

Provide Comfort. If you had stiff joints, you might savor the comfort of an easy chair. Your old dog, too, would appreciate a heated or orthopedic bed to alleviate the discomforts of arthritis or hip dysplasia! Keeping your dog comfortable is the best way to ensure a good quality of life in his later years.

Protect your older dog from temperature extremes by keeping his bed out of drafts and not leaving him outside on very hot or very cold days. Elevated food and water bowls can help take stress off joints and aid in proper digestion. Pet ramps can help your older dog avoid the strain and stress of getting in and out of cars or accessing furniture.

Taking proper care of your aging dog can help preserve his health and quality of life. Your faithful companion deserves the best your love can provide!