Grooming changes as dogs get older. The dog who once stood happily for a full brush-out may now tire after a few minutes, dislike being handled around sore spots, or simply find it harder to keep themselves tidy. A good routine for a senior dog is shorter, gentler, and more frequent.
What changes with age
- The coat. It can become drier, duller or coarser, and many older dogs shed more or less evenly through the year instead of in seasons.
- Self-grooming. Stiff dogs cannot reach their back end, hips and belly as easily, so tangles and mats build up there first.
- The skin. It gets thinner and more delicate, and lumps and bumps become more common.
- Patience. Standing for a long time is tiring, and slippery surfaces are worrying for a dog who is unsteady.
A calmer routine
- Little and often. Five minutes most days beats half an hour once a week. Stop while your dog is still relaxed.
- Let them lie down. There is no rule that says a dog must stand to be brushed. Do one side, then the other.
- Give them grip. A rubber mat, a rug or a towel underfoot helps an unsteady dog feel safe.
- Start where they enjoy it. Chest and shoulders first, then work towards the hips and back legs, which are often more sensitive.
- Work with the coat. Short, light strokes in the direction the hair grows. Hold the hair at the base when you work through a tangle so you are not pulling on the skin.
- Finish with something nice. A treat, a rest, a favourite spot. You want them to look forward to next time.
Dealing with tangles and mats
Catch tangles early and they come out easily. Work from the end of the hair towards the skin, a little at a time. A tight mat that sits against the skin is a different matter: do not cut it out with scissors, because it is very easy to cut the skin underneath. Ask a groomer or your vet to remove it safely.
Use grooming as a check-up
You see and feel more of your dog during grooming than at any other time. Make a habit of running your hands over them as you go and noting anything new:
- Lumps, bumps or swellings
- Sore, red, flaky or smelly patches of skin
- Bald spots or a sudden change in the coat
- Flinching when a particular place is touched
- Fleas, ticks or their dirt
Mention anything new to your vet. Most lumps on older dogs turn out to be harmless, but only a vet can tell you which.
The rest of the routine
- Nails. Older dogs walk less, so nails wear down more slowly. Long nails change how a dog stands and reduce grip on smooth floors. Trim little and often, or ask your vet or groomer.
- Paw fur. Hair growing between the pads makes floors slippery. Keeping it short helps with traction.
- Baths. Less often is usually fine. Use lukewarm water, a non-slip mat, a gentle dog shampoo, and dry them thoroughly so they do not get chilled.
Choosing a comb
For an older dog, look for rounded teeth that will not scratch thin skin, and a handle that is comfortable for you to hold. Our Dog Grooming Comb has rounded stainless steel teeth and a soft, non-slip grip, in two sizes: M for small dogs and fine coats, L for larger dogs and thicker coats.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Our products are support aids, not medical devices. Your vet knows your dog and should guide any decision about their care.