As dogs age, their physical and cognitive needs change substantially, requiring owners and veterinarians to adapt care to maintain quality of life through the senior years.
Senior dog welfare requires proactive health monitoring and willingness to adapt management as the dog changes. Pain from arthritis is one of the most common and most undertreated welfare problems in aging dogs, with many owners attributing reduced activity to normal aging rather than pain. Environmental modifications including ramps, orthopedic bedding, and non-slip flooring significantly improve comfort for arthritic dogs. Cognitive dysfunction requires patient management changes and may benefit from supportive medications. Quality of life assessment tools help owners and vets make informed decisions about management intensity and end-of-life timing.