Caring for a senior working dog

Record everyday function

Note rising, walking, sleep, appetite and willingness to take part. Compare with that dog’s usual behaviour instead of judging against a younger kennel mate.

Investigate change

RSPCA cautions that changes attributed to old age may have a medical cause. Take observations to the veterinarian and ask what needs assessment before adjusting work.

Plan the next chapter

Discuss tasks the dog can still enjoy, comfortable rest, companionship and follow-up. Keep welfare and quality of life central when considering reduced work or retirement.

Ask everyone who regularly handles the dog for observations, including quiet days at home. A dog may behave differently around stock, so the work session alone does not describe its whole day.

When discussing reduced work, explain the actual tasks rather than simply saying the dog is retired. Short stock movements, vehicle travel and time waiting at yards can remain part of its routine.

Age does not explain every change

The RSPCA’s older-dog guidance cautions that reduced playfulness or weight change can have a medical cause rather than being inevitable ageing. A senior dog’s care therefore needs observations about daily function, not just whether it can still complete a favourite task. Note eating, drinking, toileting, sleep and social interaction as well as movement. Changes may be gradual enough that a regular diary reveals them more clearly than memory. Include good and difficult days so the assessment is not based solely on an energetic appearance around livestock.

Common questions

Sources & further reading

References for this guide. Rules and services can change; check the responsible organisation for current details.

• RSPCA: Caring for older dogs (opens in a new tab)

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