{ "schema": "whattobuyfor/v1", "type": "situation", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog.json", "publisher": "What to Buy For", "method": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/how-we-build-a-basket/", "pricesAsOf": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "priceNote": "Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.", "affiliateDisclosure": "Links to Amazon are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.", "title": "What to buy for an older dog", "section": "pets", "answer": "Six things that make the house and the car easier for an older dog, plus raised bowls if your vet finds neck or back pain. Stiffness, pain and supplements are questions for the vet.", "published": "2026-09-28", "updated": "2026-09-28", "noindex": false, "whyThisBasket": [ "Built from RSPCA, PDSA and Dogs Trust advice on older dogs: somewhere comfortable to lie, grip underfoot and a way up onto the sofa and into the car.", "Raised bowls sit apart because Dogs Trust links them to neck or back pain, which is for a vet to find.", "No supplements and no joint claims. If your dog is stiff or struggles on stairs, the RSPCA says to talk to your vet." ], "basket": [ { "id": "home", "label": "Around the house", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "A thick, supportive bed away from draughts", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/#role-bed", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0B828F1VK", "name": "EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Large Dog Bed With Washable Cover", "amazonTitle": "EHEYCIGA Orthopedic Large Dog Bed With Washable Cover, 91x69x9cm, Grey", "brand": "EHEYCIGA", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/319RBPojoxL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B828F1VK", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0B828F1VK.json", "price": { "amount": 21.59, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:19:51.950Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 6693, "boughtLastMonth": "500+", "categoryRank": { "position": 3, "category": "Dog Beds" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Thick and firm, more like a small mattress than a cushion", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Older dogs have taken to it as their usual spot", "count": 2 }, { "text": "The cover comes off easily and washes well", "count": 5 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "EHEYCIGA orthopaedic bed, 91 x 69 cm", "ourTake": "PDSA mentions orthopaedic beds for older pets, and the RSPCA wants a soft, cosy bed away from draughts to keep them warm. This one is 91 by 69 cm and 9 cm deep with a washable cover, the listing says. The Bedsure upgrade is listed as extra thick." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": { "asin": "B0F13RK113", "name": "Bedsure SupportMax Extra Thick Supportive XL Orthopedic Dog", "amazonTitle": "Bedsure SupportMax™ Extra Thick Supportive XL Orthopedic Dog Beds Large", "brand": "Bedsure", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41M-poCtFSL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F13RK113", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0F13RK113.json", "price": { "amount": 39.94, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:19:53.777Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 994, "boughtLastMonth": "500+", "categoryRank": { "position": 5, "category": "Dog Beds" } }, "buyersSay": null, "ourName": "Bedsure SupportMax extra thick bed, XL" }, "sources": [ { "name": "PDSA: Older pets, taking care of your senior citizen's joints", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/older-pets-taking-care-of-your-senior-citizen-s-joints", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "RSPCA: Caring for older dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Non-slip runners on smooth floors", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/#role-runner", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0CWPD4WGG", "name": "GULLAMBO Carpet Runners for Hallways 60cm x 180cm", "amazonTitle": "GULLAMBO Carpet Runners for Hallways 60cm x 180cm Non Slip - Rubber Backed Dirt Trapper Hall Runner Rug | Heavy Duty Water Absorbent Low Pile Kitchen Runner Mat- Anthracite", "brand": "GULLAMBO", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51sT7rnIPRL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CWPD4WGG", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0CWPD4WGG.json", "price": { "amount": 23.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:19:53.660Z", "rating": 4.6, "ratings": 1172, "boughtLastMonth": "100+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Carpet Runners" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 9, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "The rubber back grips the floor and the runner stays put", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Easy to keep clean with a quick vacuum", "count": 3 }, { "text": "Looks smart and feels good quality for the price", "count": 5 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "GULLAMBO rubber-backed runner, 60 x 180 cm", "ourTake": "The RSPCA says smooth, slippery floors are hard for older dogs and suggests a rug or carpet to give them something to grip. PDSA suggests non-slip rugs or carpet runners, and Dogs Trust a rug near the sofa. This runner is 60 by 180 cm with a rubber back, the listing says." }, "budget": { "asin": "B0CXCSLXDY", "name": "SHACOS Hallway Runner Non Slip 60x180 cm", "amazonTitle": "SHACOS Hallway Runner Non Slip 60x180 cm, Washable Carpet Runners Black", "brand": "SHACOS", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51llMCGk5OL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CXCSLXDY", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0CXCSLXDY.json", "price": { "amount": 18.64, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:19:51.931Z", "rating": 4.2, "ratings": 1470, "boughtLastMonth": "50+", "categoryRank": { "position": 2, "category": "Carpet Runners" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Survives the washing machine and comes out looking new", "count": 3 }, { "text": "The backing grips, so it stays in place underfoot", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Arrives folded, and the crease can take a while to drop out", "count": 4 } ] }, "ourName": "SHACOS non-slip runner, 60 x 180 cm" }, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Caring for older dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: Older pets, taking care of your senior citizen's joints", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/older-pets-taking-care-of-your-senior-citizen-s-joints", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "Dogs Trust: How to keep your dog off the furniture", "url": "https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/training/unwanted-behaviours/furniture", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Steps up to the sofa or bed", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/#role-steps", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0DZC4NXDY", "name": "Feandrea 4-Step Dog Stairs", "amazonTitle": "Feandrea 4-Step Dog Stairs, Waterproof, Anti-Slip, Gentle Slope Dog steps", "brand": "FEANDREA", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Z5Q6xSddL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DZC4NXDY", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0DZC4NXDY.json", "price": { "amount": 37.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:19:52.076Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 2218, "boughtLastMonth": "400+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Stairs & Steps for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Small and older pets reach the sofa without having to jump", "count": 6 }, { "text": "Firm foam, not a cover over a hard frame, and holds its shape", "count": 3 }, { "text": "The cover comes off for washing", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Some dogs still prefer to jump, or use it only now and then", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Feandrea 4-step dog stairs", "ourTake": "Dogs Trust suggests a small step or ramp for a dog that finds it hard to jump onto furniture. These Feandrea stairs have four steps, a gentle slope and a waterproof, anti-slip cover, the listing says. Check the top step against the height of your sofa or bed. Buyers mostly use them with small dogs, so a big dog may get on better with a ramp." }, "budget": { "asin": "B0GQ47LH4R", "name": "Feandrea Dog Steps", "amazonTitle": "Feandrea Dog Steps, High-Density Foam, 2 Steps, 30 x 38 x 28 cm", "brand": "FEANDREA", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41E5wbAYoIL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GQ47LH4R", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0GQ47LH4R.json", "price": { "amount": 19.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:20:00.626Z", "rating": 4, "ratings": 147, "boughtLastMonth": "100+", "categoryRank": { "position": 6, "category": "Stairs & Steps for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": null, "ourName": "Feandrea foam dog steps, 2 steps" }, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "Dogs Trust: How to keep your dog off the furniture", "url": "https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/training/unwanted-behaviours/furniture", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] }, { "id": "care", "label": "The car and grooming", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "A folding ramp into the car", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/#role-car-ramp", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0D1V2LC1P", "name": "Snagle Paw Longest 180cm Dog Car Ramp", "amazonTitle": "Snagle Paw Longest 180cm Dog Car Ramp,Protable Stairs for Large Dogs with Anti-Slip Rug Surface,Folding Pet Ramp Stairs Up to 140KG Pet Step for Medium & Large Dogs Get Into a Car, SUV & Truck", "brand": "Snagle Paw", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51whoc9J2qL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D1V2LC1P", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0D1V2LC1P.json", "price": { "amount": 88.39, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Limited time deal", "note": null, "basis": "Amazon deal badge" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:20:01.458Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 420, "boughtLastMonth": "100+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Dog Car Ramps" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 11, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Solid and sturdy, even with large, heavy dogs", "count": 7 }, { "text": "The carpet surface gives paws grip, so dogs walk up with confidence", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Long enough to stay gentle into a high SUV or truck boot", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Heavy to lift in and out of the car, at around 8kg", "count": 6 }, { "text": "The clip that fixes it to the car is awkward to use", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Snagle Paw folding car ramp, 180 cm", "ourTake": "The RSPCA says you may need to lift an older dog in or out of the car or get a ramp, and Dogs Trust suggests ramps for the car and the stairs. This folding ramp is 180 cm long with an anti-slip rug surface, the listing says. A longer ramp makes a gentler slope up to a high boot." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Caring for older dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "Dogs Trust: Rehoming and looking after an older dog", "url": "https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/at-home/looking-after-an-older-dog", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Nail clippers", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/#role-nail-clippers", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B074N6RHP6", "name": "Candure Dog Nail Clippers for Large", "amazonTitle": "Candure Dog Nail Clippers for Large, Medium and Small Breed Professional Pet Nail Clipper Suitable for Cats, Rabbits and Guinea Pigs with Safety Lock and Protective Guard to Avoid Over Cutting (6\")", "brand": "Candure", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41WskivBf1L._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B074N6RHP6", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B074N6RHP6.json", "price": { "amount": 6.49, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:19:59.331Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 36647, "boughtLastMonth": "3K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Claw Care for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Sharp enough to cut thick claws without much force", "count": 7 }, { "text": "The guard helps stop you cutting too far", "count": 3 }, { "text": "Dogs tend not to be bothered while it is used", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "Candure dog nail clippers", "ourTake": "The RSPCA says senior dogs may need their nails trimmed more often if they are exercising less. These clippers have a safety lock and a guard against cutting too far, the listing says. If you have never trimmed a dog's nails, ask your vet or a groomer to show you first." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Caring for older dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A gentle brush for daily grooming", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/#role-brush", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B091T7C8NM", "name": "Wooden Double Sided Dog Brush", "amazonTitle": "Wooden Double Sided Dog Brush - Pet Hair Grooming Tool With Pin and Soft Bristles for Dogs & Cats With Long or Short Hair - Red", "brand": "DDSHUN", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416CUsHUHtL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B091T7C8NM", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B091T7C8NM.json", "price": { "amount": 5.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:20:02.957Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 1203, "boughtLastMonth": "600+", "categoryRank": { "position": 6, "category": "Grooming Brushes for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 11, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Pins lift loose hair and the soft side finishes gently", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Pets that dodge other brushes are happy to be groomed with it", "count": 3 }, { "text": "Decent quality for what it costs", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Pin tips can lose their caps or work loose within weeks", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Double-sided wooden dog brush", "ourTake": "Dogs Trust says daily grooming is good for an older dog's coat and a chance to check for new lumps or bumps. This wooden brush has pins on one side and soft bristles on the other, the listing says. Show your vet any lump you find." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "Dogs Trust: Rehoming and looking after an older dog", "url": "https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/at-home/looking-after-an-older-dog", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] }, { "id": "later", "label": "If your vet finds neck or back pain", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": false, "roles": [ { "role": "Raised food and water bowls", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/#role-raised-bowls", "quantity": "1 stand with 2 bowls", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B09JW2FQQQ", "name": "Toozey Raised Dog Bowl Height-Adjustable", "amazonTitle": "Toozey Raised Dog Bowl Height-Adjustable, Elevated Dog bowls with 2x 1200ml Stainless Steel Bowls, for Small Medium & Large Dogs, Non-Slip and No Spill, Black", "brand": "Toozey", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Kiey06vaL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09JW2FQQQ", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B09JW2FQQQ.json", "price": { "amount": 20.39, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-28T07:19:34.388Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Limited time deal", "note": null, "basis": "Amazon deal badge" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:19:59.469Z", "rating": 4.7, "ratings": 5569, "boughtLastMonth": "600+", "categoryRank": { "position": 2, "category": "Raised Dog Bowls" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Several height settings that are easy to change to suit the dog", "count": 8 }, { "text": "Older dogs take to it and no longer stoop to the floor to eat", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Sturdy stand that is quick to put together", "count": 8 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "The bowls are smallish, so water needs topping up often", "count": 3 } ] }, "ourName": "Toozey height-adjustable raised bowls", "ourTake": "Dogs Trust says that if a dog has neck or back pain, raising the food and water bowls can help them eat and drink more comfortably. That pain is for a vet to diagnose, so ask first. This stand holds two 1200 ml steel bowls and adjusts in height, the listing says." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "Dogs Trust: Rehoming and looking after an older dog", "url": "https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/at-home/looking-after-an-older-dog", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] } ], "totals": { "today": { "amount": 184.44, "currency": "GBP", "itemsPriced": 6, "itemsMissingPrice": 0 }, "monthlyRunningCost": null }, "canWait": [ { "what": "A winter coat", "why": "The RSPCA says an older dog may need a coat against cold weather and rain. Buy one when the weather turns; the winter page covers what to look for." } ], "skip": [ { "what": "Joint supplements", "why": "Out of scope here. PDSA says to see your vet first, and the RSPCA says a vet may have treatments that can help a stiff dog." } ], "questions": [ { "question": "At what age is a dog classed as senior?", "answer": "Dogs Trust counts dogs over seven as senior and dogs over twelve as geriatric. Your vet can say how that applies to your dog." }, { "question": "How often should an older dog see the vet?", "answer": "Twice a year. Dogs Trust calls twice-yearly check-ups essential for an ageing dog, and the RSPCA says changes in behaviour may be signs of an underlying issue, not just old age." }, { "question": "How do I stop an older dog slipping on laminate floors?", "answer": "Put down something with grip. The RSPCA suggests a rug or carpet on smooth floors, PDSA suggests non-slip rugs or carpet runners, and Dogs Trust suggests a rug near the sofa where the dog gets up and down." }, { "question": "Do older dogs need shorter walks?", "answer": "Often, yes. The RSPCA suggests shorter walks, little and often, and Dogs Trust suggests frequent short walks in place of one long one. If your dog seems stiff or has trouble getting up or climbing stairs, the RSPCA says to talk to your vet." } ], "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Caring for older dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/seniordogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: Older pets, taking care of your senior citizen's joints", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/older-pets-taking-care-of-your-senior-citizen-s-joints", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "Dogs Trust: Rehoming and looking after an older dog", "url": "https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/at-home/looking-after-an-older-dog", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "Dogs Trust: How to keep your dog off the furniture", "url": "https://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/training/unwanted-behaviours/furniture", "checked": "2026-09-26" } ], "related": [ { "title": "What to buy for a dog in winter", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for travelling with a dog", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/travelling-with-a-dog/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/travelling-with-a-dog.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for an older cat", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-cat/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-cat.json" } ] }