As our dogs enter their golden years, consistent, attentive care is the key to keeping them happy, comfortable, and healthy. Small changes can often be the first sign of a developing issue.
Use this weekly checklist to create a routine, monitor your senior dog’s health, and track any changes. Please print it out and stick it on your fridge to help you stay on top of their care!
Download via this link: https://goldenpawscare.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Weekly-Wellness-Checklist.pdf
Week of: _______________
🦷 Section 1: Dental Care
A healthy mouth is crucial for your dog’s overall health, especially as they age.
- ☐ Brush Teeth: Aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least 3-4 times this week.
- ☐ Inspect Gums: Gently lift their lips. Are their gums a healthy pink color? (Note: Some dogs have natural black pigmentation). Check for any significant redness, swelling, or bleeding.
- ☐ Check for Bad Breath: A sudden or worsening “doggie breath” can be a sign of dental disease.
- Notes:
🐾 Section 2: Nail & Paw Care
Overgrown nails can affect your dog’s posture and cause discomfort or pain, exacerbating mobility issues.
- ☐ Check Nail Length: Can you hear their nails clicking on the hard floor? If so, they are likely too long.
- ☐ Trim Nails (if needed): Perform a trim to ensure nails aren’t touching the ground when they stand.
- ☐ Inspect Paw Pads: Check for dryness, cracks, or sores.
- Notes:
⚖️ Section 3: Weight & Body Condition
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best ways to protect your senior dog’s joints.
- ☐ Weekly Weigh-In: Record your dog’s weight. Consistent tracking is more important than a single number.
- This Week’s Weight: _________ lbs/kg
- ☐ Perform a Rib Check: Gently run your hands over your dog’s sides. You should be able to easily feel their ribs without having to press hard.
- ☐ Monitor Appetite: Note any significant changes, such as a sudden lack of interest in food or being constantly hungry.
- Notes:
🏃♂️ Section 4: Mobility & Comfort
Subtle changes in your dog’s movement can be the first sign of arthritis or other joint issues.
- ☐ Observe Movement: Watch them as they get up from a nap. Do they seem stiff? Do they struggle?
- ☐ Check for Limping: Look for any favoring of one leg while walking or a change in their gait.
- ☐ Assess Willingness: Are they still happy to go on walks? Do they hesitate before jumping on the couch, using stairs, or getting into the car?
- Notes:
⚠️ When to Call Your Vet
This checklist helps you monitor your dog, but it is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Contact your vet if you notice any of the following:
- Dental: Bleeding gums, a broken tooth, or a sudden, foul odor from the mouth.
- Nails: A cracked nail that is bleeding or appears infected; a paw pad that is raw or bleeding.
- Weight: Any sudden or unexplained weight loss or gain.
- Mobility: A persistent limp, visible signs of pain, or a strong reluctance to move or do normal activities.