Grooming a senior dog: gentle care for older pets
Older dogs need a gentler touch. How to adapt baths, brushing and paw care for your senior companion.
In this guide
As dogs get older, often from around seven or eight years (earlier for big breeds), their skin gets thinner and drier, joints get stiffer and they may not stand for long. Grooming becomes even more important, and needs a gentler approach.
Make it comfortable
- Use a non-slip surface. A rubber mat in the tub or on the grooming table helps stiff legs.
- Keep sessions short. Several short sessions are better than one long one.
- Let them lie down for brushing and nail trims.
- Support the body when lifting, under the chest and back end. Use a ramp or step where possible.
Bathing a senior dog
- Bathe less often. Older skin dries out more easily.
- Use a gentle formula. Our Puppy & Kitten Shampoo is mild enough for sensitive adult and senior skin.
- Make sure the water is comfortably warm and the room is warm too.
- Dry thoroughly; older dogs feel the cold more. See drying your dog properly.
- Between baths, a Waterless Dry Bath Spray is a stress-free way to freshen up.
Brushing
Brush gently with a soft brush. Older dogs may groom themselves less, so mats can form in places they can't reach, like the back legs and tail area. Brushing is also your best chance to find new lumps and bumps.
Nails
Senior dogs often walk less, so their nails wear down less and grow longer. Long nails make walking harder and can cause slips on tiled floors. Check every couple of weeks. See trimming dog nails.
Paws
Older pads get drier and can crack. Rub a little Cracked Paw Repair Balm into the pads at bedtime. Keep the fur between the pads trimmed for better grip on smooth floors. See cracked paw pads.
Teeth, ears and eyes
- Teeth: dental disease is common in older dogs. Brush regularly and ask your vet about dental checks.
- Ears: check weekly. See cleaning your dog's ears.
- Eyes: gently wipe away discharge with a damp cloth. Cloudiness can be normal ageing, but get any changes checked.
Changes to tell your vet about
While grooming, look out for:
- New lumps, bumps or swellings
- Thinning coat or bald patches
- Very dry, flaky or smelly skin
- Pain when touched in certain places
- Stiffness that's getting worse
- Bad breath, or not eating properly
- Changes in weight
Many of these are easier to manage when caught early.
Questions pet parents ask
How often should I bathe a senior dog? +
Usually less often than a younger dog, as older skin dries out more easily. Use a gentle shampoo and dry thoroughly.
How do I trim nails on an old dog with arthritis? +
Let them lie down comfortably, do one paw at a time, and keep sessions short. Ask your vet or groomer for help if it's painful.
What should I check for when grooming an older dog? +
New lumps, skin changes, sore spots, dental problems, ear issues and eye changes. Tell your vet about anything new.
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This guide is general information for pet parents, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, injured or you're unsure, please talk to your vet.
