Senior dogs need adapted enrichment that respects their changing physical abilities while continuing to provide cognitive stimulation and positive engagement.
Senior dog enrichment requires the insight to recognise what an individual dog can genuinely enjoy rather than applying younger dog enrichment approaches that may cause pain or frustration. A 14-year-old arthritic dog needs enrichment that does not require jumping, running or sustained physical effort. Nose work — which provides intense engagement through the dog's most developed sense — is particularly well-suited to senior dogs who retain their olfactory capacity long after physical ability declines. Maintaining engagement and positive experiences through appropriate, adapted enrichment extends the period of good quality of life in aging dogs.