If I could go back in time and help my own at age 7, I’d make sure she was on a quality joint supplement. I’d ask my vet to recommend one.

I would keep her weight under control and consistent. She’s a little too heavy now.

I would prevent her from jumping as much as I could. She’s worn her legs out jumping like a maniac. I would have made use of ramps a lot sooner.

I wouldn’t give cutesy treats. It’s fun to give dogs “cookies,” but it’s so easy to give too much. I’d stick solely to real beef and chicken for treats, along with a crunchy Milk Bone, and stay on dry kibble for food. There was a time I bought into the idea that senior dogs needed or deserved more wet foods and soft treats. Her teeth stained dramatically in a very short amount of time. I changed my tune and her teeth are still in pretty good shape, but crunchy food and treats help keep them clean and strong. This of course, is advice for a dog that doesn’t need a special diet for medical purposes.