Millie was our dogs bestest friend 🧡
Dedicated to Millie Moo – the original Border Terrorist. You taught us that being cheeky is a form of enrichment in itself. You were small but mighty, and your friendship made the world brighter. This one’s for you, gorgeous girl. Run free at Rainbow Bridge 🌈🐾
Just like us, dogs change as they age—but that doesn’t mean their world should shrink! Whether your dog is slowing down a little or is firmly in their golden years, there’s still so much joy, connection, and learning to be had together.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
✔ What to expect from older dogs
✔ Why training and enrichment are still important
✔ How to adapt activities to suit ageing bodies and minds
✔ How The Canine Hub’s Social Club, Variety Club and Scentwork options can help your older dog thrive
What Changes as Dogs Age?
Every dog is different, but many start showing signs of ageing around 7–10 years old, depending on breed and size. You might notice:
- A little more stiffness in the mornings
- Slower responses to cues
- Reduced interest in long walks or busy environments
- New sensitivities or anxiety in situations they previously handled with ease
These changes are natural—but they don’t mean your dog is “done” with learning or playing!
Why Enrichment & Training Still Matter
Older dogs still benefit hugely from mental stimulation, gentle physical activity, and positive reinforcement.
In fact, continuing training in later life:
- Helps maintain cognitive function and focus
- Builds confidence when physical abilities change
- Provides an outlet for dogs who still want to “do something” but need a lower-impact routine
- Keeping the brain busy keeps the spirit bright!
How to Adapt Activities for Senior Dogs
Here are a few senior-friendly ideas to keep your dog engaged and enriched:
1. Keep Training Sessions Short & Rewarding
Revisit basic cues like settle, touch, wait, and find it. These are gentle, fun and great for maintaining connection.
2. Try Low-Impact Enrichment
Puzzle toys, slow walks where they can sniff everything, and short trick sessions can be more enjoyable than long hikes.
3. Let Them Sniff!
Older dogs often love scent-based games. It taps into their natural abilities and is mentally stimulating without physical strain.
Looking for Inspiration?
Join One of Our Senior-Friendly Sessions!
At The Canine Hub, we believe every dog deserves a fulfilling, enriched life—no matter their age. That’s why we offer several options to help older dogs stay engaged, happy and confident:
Social Club
A relaxed, low-pressure environment where dogs can interact, observe, and take part in activities at their own pace.
Perfect for:
✔ Dogs who enjoy being around others but don’t want full-on play
✔ Maintaining social skills
✔ Gentle exposure to new things
Variety Club
Each session includes a mix of fun games, trick training, brain work, and confidence-building activities.
Perfect for:
✔ Older dogs who still love to “do stuff”
✔ Dogs who enjoy 1:1 time with their humans
✔ Adding gentle structure to your week
Scentwork
One of the best activities for senior dogs! It’s mentally enriching, low-impact, and builds amazing confidence and focus.
Perfect for:
✔ Dogs who love to sniff
✔ Dogs with reduced mobility
✔ Boosting calmness and connection
Final Thoughts
Age is just a number—but enrichment, connection, and joy are timeless. Your senior dog still has so much to give and gain, and with a few small adjustments, you can keep life interesting, rewarding, and full of tail wags.
🐾 Want to explore what suits your golden oldie best?
📅 Join our Social Club, Variety Club or Scentwork sessions—designed with your dog’s wellbeing in mind.
Click here to find out more and book your place!
The Canine Hub 