A Cocker Spaniel is a mild-mannered, fun-loving dog with a pleasant personality. It makes a great companion for single people and those with families. A Cocker Spaniel dog tends to be very energetic and active when young. It can be a good working dog. A Cocker Spaniel is also very obedient and devoted to its master. Although Cocker Spaniels are always keen and happy, they may lose their vigor due to aging. If you own an old Cocker Spaniel, you need to know how to make it happy. We will share ten ways to make your senior Cocker Spaniel happy, shall we?
1. Understand that older Cocker Spaniels are prone to diseases
Even if your dog is getting old, you want it to live much longer without feeling pain or discomfort. As Cockers Spaniel get older, they become more prone to diseases. To catch disease symptoms early, observe the pet closely every day. Common health issues to focus on are dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis Sicca), ear issues, tumors, growths, blood disorders, and pancreatitis. If you notice any strange symptoms, consult a veterinary immediately.
2. Let your older dog exercise but in moderation
Cocker Spaniels can act as working dogs because they are very active and vigorous. As this is a natural trait, you might find that your older dog wants to overexert itself to please you. As it may have joint aches or body pain, do not wait until the dog is so tired to stop the exercise. Playtime can pre-occupy its mind to focus less on its pain or boredom. If you ignore playtime, your older dog might start whining, chewing on things, and scratching surfaces. When bored, a Cocker Spaniel can be destructive.
3. Remove disturbances from your home
Just like older, sickly people, an older ailing dog may hate loud noises and related disturbances. Even if you socialized it well when young, it may be sensitive to noise pollution and heavy handling when old and sick. Make your home quieter just to make your Cocker Spaniel happier.
4. Learn to spot emergencies
You may think that you know your Cocker Spaniel well until an emergency happens. Due to aging, your dog is no longer the same. It may respond differently than before if it feels unwell. So, rush your dog to the veterinary if:
- It passes discolored urine or strains to urinate
- Its eyes become cloudy, red, or itchy
- The gums change their usual bright pink color to something else
- It starts to shake its head
- You notice a discharge coming out of the ear or if the ears seem tender
- It is panting at rest or has a cough
- Its body starts trembling or having tremors
- You notice hair loss, weight gain, sluggishness, or dullness of the coat.
5. Prepare for a higher cost of maintenance
It is generally expensive to raise a Cocker Spaniel dog. When the dog gets older, the cost of maintaining it might increase due to illnesses. You do not want to keep your dog at home because you cannot raise money to take it to a vet. It will feel unhappy due to pain. To prepare for disasters, consider taking a Cocker Spaniel insurance cover. Take the time to choose the best dog insurer near you. It will cover the ongoing costs of treatment when you have no money.
6. Provide preventative care
It does not mean that every old Cocker Spaniel lives with sickness. An old dog is more vulnerable to illness than its younger companions. If yours is not sick now, you can give it preventative care to protect it. Regular vet visits may increase your bill but they will keep your pet happier and healthier. The veterinarian will catch any disease early and take actions to treat it. You can also arrange an affordable health care plan with your veterinarian.
7. Ensure regular grooming
Cocker Spaniels are long-haired dogs. They require regular grooming to keep them clean, neat, and happy. As they advance in age, Cocker Spaniels need more attentive care. They are prone to ear infections because of their long, bulky ears. Check your dog’s ears for any signs of infection, including discharge or smelly black or brown wax. An old dog has enough suffering and does not need parasites. So, use a natural shampoo to clean and protect the dog skin from allergies. Lastly, brush its teeth often to remove plaque and ensure healthy gums.
8. Watch its weight and diet
Cocker Spaniels feed well even when old. As long as they feel healthy, these dogs love to eat. As a result, you need to consult the older dog’s veterinarian about the eating guideline, best nutrition and healthiest weight to maintain. Then, follow what the veterinarian says.
9. Soothe your Senior Cocker Spaniel
Your dog has been a good companion from the day you brought him home as a puppy. Now that he is aging, you might think that he needs more time by himself. However, if you want to make him happier, have your moments with him. Call him to sit or lie near you and then speak to him. You can also rub his belly or let him lick your cheek. The dog will notice your love and affection and feel happy.
10. Buy your dog a better bed
An older dog with failing bodily functions needs more comfort. As it might spend most of its time sleeping, get it an orthopedic bed for dogs. Also, read widely to know how to take care of an aging dog at home, including giving first aid.
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