If you are the owner of an older pooch, then you may have started to notice that your daily walks are a little slower than they used to be. As dogs get older, even the most basic activities like going for a casual stroll around the block require some extra care and attention. Their walking requirements will change in just the same way as their dietary requirements, and a leash that worked perfectly for them in their younger years might not fit the bill anymore and could even cause some discomfort or stress.
Any senior dog needs a leash that is going to provide the right levels of comfort, support and security in order to ensure that they can still enjoy their daily walks. The right leash can do everything from mitigate joint pain to aid with reduced vision to easing decreased energy levels, all the while helping you to keep your strong loving connection with your pet.
To help you out on this matter, we have put together a guide that explores the reasons why senior dogs might need some special considerations when it comes to leashes. We’ll lay out all of the features to look out for, which types of leash are the best, and include a few tips on how you can make your aging pet’s walks much safer and more enjoyable!
Why Senior Dogs Needs Special Consideration for Leashes
Just like with humans, a dog aging brings with it a whole list of potential physical and behavioral changes, and some of these changes can definitely impact on how they might interact with their leash. Understanding all of these challenges can help you to make the best new leash selection.
Joint and Muscle Stiffness
One of the main issues that crops up for aging pups is pain and stiffness in the form of things like arthritis and hip dysplasia, which can make any sudden movements or leash pulling painful. A leash that is designed to reduce strain can be very helpful in preventing abrupt movements, and the less uncomfortable your senior companion is, the better.
Weaker Trachea and Neck Sensitivity
Any smaller breed like a Yorkshire Terrier or a Chihuahua can be vulnerable to tracheal collapse, whilst larger breeds are at risk of cervical spine issues. You need a leash that can minimize pressure on the neck to prevent pain and injury. Unfortunately, tracheal issues are not the kinds of issues that have a permanent solution, so you just have to be as careful and attentive as possible.
Reduced Vision and Hearing
Older dogs can get more easily startled or disoriented, and a good steady leash is something that gives them much needed security and support when out in environments that are no longer completely familiar to them. They can’t just throw on a pair of glasses like we can, so its up to owners to do everything they can to minimize the anxiety of decreasing vision.
Lower Energy Levels
We all like to operate at a slower pace as we get older! With this in mind, a flexible, adjustable leash is perfect because it allows for more comfortable movement that will accommodate reduced stamina. If you are getting tired when out on a walk, it’s a safe best that your pup is too!
Key Features to Look for in a Leash for Senior Dogs
Here are some of the key features to look out for when it comes time to buy a new leash for your senior furry friend.
Soft and Comfortable Materials
Leather leashes are gentles for both your hands and for your pup’s neck, which can prevent discomfort and friction burns. You definitely want to avoid rougher, stiffer materials that can cause irritation. Like nylon, for example.
Lightweight Yet Strong
A good leash should be lightweight enough for a senior dog to manage wearing it, whilst still being strong enough to guarantee their safety. A leash that is too heavy will just cause unnecessary string, and at the other end of the spectrum one that is too thin could break far too easily.
Adjustable Hands-Free Design for Control and Freedom
A hands-free leash that can wrap around your own waist is a great option for proving better stability, and this gives you the freedom and control to go on a calm, steady walk whilst keeping your hands available and relaxed.
Reflective Elements for Visibility
With reduced vision being such a common symptom of old age in pups, having a leash with reflective stitching or even LED lights attached can be a great safety feature for early morning or late evening strolls.
Best Types of Leashes for Senior Dogs
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Classic Leather Leash - Best for Comfort and Durability
A leather leash will mold to your hand over time, creating a comfortable grip, and the softness of the material also benefits your pet, with no threat of friction burn or irritation. They are great for senior dogs who still enjoy regular walks but need a comfortable, gentle experience. Make sure to condition the leather to keep it soft and flexible! -
Adjustable Hands-Free Leash - Best for Stability, Control and Support
An adjustable hands-free leash wraps around the waist to give better weight distribution and reduces strain on your hands. It gives your dog a stable, guided walking experience which can be perfect if they have mobility issues. The adjustable length means that you can choose between close control or extra space depending on their needs. Remember to always stay alert when using a hands-free leash, as the level of control and safety will be down to you.
Additional Tips for Walking a Senior Dog
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Walk at Their Pace
Never rush a senior dog who might be struggling. Instead, let them set the speed of your stroll because doing this means that they will enjoy their walk without the fear of overexertion. -
Choose Soft Walking Surfaces
Try to avoid areas with lots of hard pavement because this can be really tough on a dog’s aging joints. Instead, seek out spaces with softer terrain like grass, dirt paths or rubberized sidewalks if they exist in your area. -
Monitor Their Energy Levels
As a pup gets older, you might find that they cope better with short, frequent walks rather than a long adventure. Be vigilant for signs of fatigue in your pet, as well as things like limpling or overheating in the hotter months. You want to do everything in your power to ensure your canine companion stays comfortable! -
Use a Harness for Extra Support
If your senior pooch is prone to tracheal issues in particular, then you might want to consider a back-clip harness as it is a much better alternative to a collar in this scenario. It distributes pressure much more evenly across the chest to provide better comfort and avoid the problem area. -
Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
In hot weather, it is always best to go on an early morning or late evening walk to avoid the risk of overheating. When conditions are much colder, your senior dog will definitely benefit from wearing a coat for warmth, and try to avoid any particularly icy surfaces that could lead to slipping or flare ups in joint pain.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing the right leah for your older pup really can make a world of difference when it comes to their safety and comfort when out on a walk. A classic leather leash can offer you the kind of durability and gentle experience that you are looking for, whilst an adjustable hands-free leash will give you greater levels of stability and ease of use. It’s so important to find that perfect balance of soft material and lightweight construction, as well as some potential reflective elements that will keep both walker and ‘walkee’ safe when out and about!
Your pup has gotten to a grand old age thanks to your amazing levels of care and attention, and the next step in this success is making sure that you have the best leash to allow them to maintain their daily routine. So many dogs stop being walked when they get older and as a result they lose some of their sense of adventure and important senior fitness. That doesn’t have to be the case in your house!
What kind of leash are you currently using with your own senior pup? We’d love you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. And don’t hesitate to head over to The Lille Bjorn online store to check out all of the high quality leashes that we offer. We can guarantee that you will find something that perfectly suits the needs of your precious and unique pet.
After all, they deserve the very best!
