Senior Dog Comfort & Care

For an aging dog, a hand reaching to touch them can predict pain or discomfort. Some dogs will nip or bite to keep that from happening, and it’s hard to blame them when all they’re trying to do is prevent pain. They may respond aggressively, even after pain has been treated, simply because they remember that it did hurt that one time.

Becoming more sensitive to touch can happen with age, especially if a dog suffers from sore joints and muscles or skin issues. They may become less tolerant of being handled at the groomer or veterinarian or not appreciate as much cuddling as they used to.

First, talk to your veterinarian about potential pain treatments for your dog to ensure they are as comfortable as possible, and create a “senior-friendly” home. If your dog has always been snarky about being handled, you can work on counterconditioning exercises to teach them that being brushed or getting their nails trimmed can be a positive experience (learn more in Tip #88). But if an older dog just doesn’t enjoy as much touch as they used to? That’s okay! Give them space and shower them with love in other ways.