What are the grooming needs of senior dogs?

Senior dogs usually start developing special grooming needs after 7-8 years of age and this process requires a more delicate approach. Aging dogs' skin becomes thinner and more fragile, so softer brushes and gentle touches should be used. Due to joint problems, they may have difficulty standing for long periods, so grooming sessions should be shortened and more frequent breaks should be given. Since senior dogs' metabolism slows down, they have difficulty regulating their body temperature, so room temperature should be monitored during grooming and very hot water should not be used. Senior dogs with vision and hearing problems may be frightened by sudden movements, so it's important to talk to the dog before each procedure and move slowly. Nail care is more critical for senior dogs because they move less, so their nails don't wear down naturally and the risk of ingrown nails increases. Dental problems also increase with age, so oral hygiene and teeth cleaning should be done more frequently. Senior dogs' skin tends to be drier, so moisturizing shampoos should be preferred. Due to incontinence issues seen in some senior dogs, hygiene becomes more important and more frequent cleaning may be needed. On the VetPI platform, you can filter and find specialists experienced in senior dog care. These specialists understand the special needs of senior dogs, show patient approach, and can make veterinary recommendations when needed. You can check the specialist's senior dog experience on their profile through the platform and share the situation beforehand to create the most suitable care plan.