Our dogs give us years of walks, cuddles and muddy paw prints. As they get older, their needs change, and grooming is one of the simplest ways to keep them comfortable and spot changes early.
Senior dogs often need a gentler approach: shorter sessions, softer handling and a bit more patience. Here's how to adapt your grooming routine for your older friend.
When is a dog a senior?
It depends on size. As a rough guide, small dogs are often considered senior from around 10 years old, medium dogs from around 8, and large and giant breeds from as young as 6. Your vet can tell you more about your own dog.
How grooming needs change with age
As dogs get older, you might notice:
- Drier skin or a thinner coat, which can feel rougher to the touch
- Less wear on their nails, as they walk less, so nails grow longer
- Stiffness, making it harder to stand still or get in and out of the bath
- Less patience for long grooming sessions
- More lumps and bumps, which are worth keeping an eye on
A gentle grooming routine for older dogs
Keep sessions short and often
Rather than one long grooming session, try a few minutes each day. Your dog is less likely to get tired or uncomfortable, and it becomes a calm, regular part of your time together.
Make them comfortable
- Groom on a non-slip mat or rug, so your dog feels steady.
- Let them lie down if standing is tiring. Many older dogs are happiest being groomed while resting on their bed.
- Keep the room warm, especially in winter.
- Use a soft brush that's kind to thinner coats and more sensitive skin.
Brush gently and regularly
Regular brushing removes loose fur, keeps the coat tidy and spreads natural oils. Work slowly and gently, especially over bony areas such as the hips, spine and elbows.
Care for paws and pads
Older dogs' paw pads can feel dry and rough, particularly in winter or on hard pavements. After walks, wipe paws with a damp cloth and dry them well, including between the toes.
Our Petcare Cream can be massaged gently into paw pads and dry patches as part of your routine. Many older dogs enjoy the gentle massage too.
Everyday skin and coat care
For smaller areas between grooming sessions, our Pet Gel absorbs quickly without a sticky residue, so it's easy to use on paws, coat and skin, and your dog stays comfortable to stroke afterwards.
Keep nails short
Longer nails can affect how a dog walks. Check them every couple of weeks, and ask your vet or groomer to trim them if you're unsure. If you can hear nails clicking on hard floors, they're probably due a trim.
Bath less, dry well
Many older dogs don't need bathing often. When you do, use lukewarm water, a non-slip mat in the bath and plenty of help lifting your dog in and out. Dry them thoroughly and keep them warm until they're completely dry.
Your senior dog grooming routine at a glance
|
How often |
What to do |
|---|---|
|
Daily |
A few minutes of gentle brushing and a quick check over |
|
After walks |
Wipe and dry paws, then apply Petcare Cream to dry pads |
|
Weekly |
Check ears, eyes, teeth and skin |
|
Every 2 to 4 weeks |
Check nails and trim if needed |
|
As needed |
A gentle bath, dried thoroughly |
Use grooming as a health check
Grooming is one of the best ways to notice changes in your older dog. As you brush, gently feel for:
- New lumps, bumps or swellings
- Areas that seem tender when touched
- Changes to the skin, such as redness, flaking or sores
- A change in smell from the ears, mouth or skin
- Cloudy eyes or more discharge than usual
If you notice anything new or unusual, speak to your vet. Many vets recommend senior dogs have a check-up every six months.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I groom my older dog? A few minutes of gentle brushing most days works well for many senior dogs, with a fuller groom when needed.
My older dog doesn't like being groomed anymore. What can I do? Keep sessions short, go slowly, and offer plenty of praise and treats. If your dog seems uncomfortable or in pain, check with your vet before continuing.
Can I still take my senior dog to a groomer? Yes. Let the groomer know your dog's age and any health conditions, and ask for shorter appointments if needed.