Enrichment for senior dogs: gentle games for older bodies

As dogs get older, walks often get shorter and slower. Joints stiffen, hearing or eyesight may fade, and the long games of fetch become less of an option. But older dogs still benefit from having something to do. Gentle mental activity can be a lovely way to keep a senior dog engaged without asking much of their body.

This guide covers low-impact enrichment ideas that suit many older dogs. Every older dog is different, so adapt the ideas to yours, and talk to your vet about any health conditions before changing their routine or diet.

What changes in older dogs

• Mobility. Stiff hips, elbows or backs make running, jumping and twisting harder. Slippery floors can be a real problem.
• Senses. Many older dogs lose some sight or hearing. The nose usually remains their strongest sense, which makes sniffing games ideal.
• Teeth. Dental problems are common in older dogs. Very hard chews may be uncomfortable or risky.
• Energy. Senior dogs often tire faster and need longer to recover.
• Weight. A less active dog can gain weight easily, so food used in games should come from the daily allowance.

Sniffing games

Sniffing is low-impact and suits most older dogs, because they can do it lying down or standing still.

• Snuffle mat. Scatter part of their dry food into a snuffle mat. A mat with a non-slip base, such as the Paw5 Wooly, is easier for unsteady dogs.
• Scatter feeding. Scatter a handful of kibble on a rug or in the garden grass and let them search at their own pace.
• Treat trails. Lay a short trail of treats along a hallway or the lawn. Keep it on flat, non-slip ground.
• Towel roll. A rolled tea towel with kibble inside is gentle and free.

See our guide to scent work at home for more structured nose games.

Licking games

Licking is calm, steady and easy on joints. A lick mat with a thin layer of their wet food or soaked kibble can be a comfortable activity for a senior dog. Soft silicone mats like the LickiMat Soother are kind to sensitive mouths. Our guide on how to use a lick mat covers fillings and cleaning.

If your dog finds it hard to bend down, raise the mat to a comfortable height — on a low step, or stuck to a wall with suction cups.

Easy puzzles

Older dogs can still enjoy puzzles, but choose ones that are easy to move with a nose rather than strong paws. Beginner and intermediate puzzles with large, smooth pieces often work well; the rotating layers of the Nina Ottosson Tornado can be nosed round with little effort. See puzzle feeder levels explained for how to pick a level.

If your dog’s eyesight is fading, use strong-smelling food so they can find it by scent, and keep the puzzle in the same place each time.

Comfort and safety

• Floors. Play on rugs, yoga mats or carpet rather than slippery laminate or tiles.
• Height. Raise bowls and mats if bending is uncomfortable.
• Short sessions. A few minutes at a time is plenty. Stop before they tire.
• Teeth. Avoid very hard chews. Ask your vet what is suitable if your dog has dental problems. See our chew safety guide.
• Food. Use part of the daily food allowance. Older dogs may have special diets — check with your vet before adding new foods.
• Watch for discomfort. Limping, reluctance, panting or restlessness are signs to stop and, if they persist, to see your vet.

Gentle routines

Predictable routines help many older dogs, especially if their sight or hearing is going. A short sniffy walk at their pace, a lick mat after dinner and a snuffle mat in the afternoon can give the day a comfortable shape. A slow “sniff walk” — where the dog sets the pace and stops wherever they like — is often more rewarding for an older dog than a longer, faster one.

Equipment worth having

You can search Amazon UK for non-slip snuffle mats (affiliate link, opens Amazon UK), raised dog bowls (affiliate link, opens Amazon UK), or easy puzzle toys for dogs (affiliate link, opens Amazon UK). Check the listing details and the live price before buying.

Enrichment is not a treatment for arthritis, cognitive changes or any other condition. If you notice changes in your older dog’s mobility, behaviour or appetite, speak to your vet.