Veterinary medicine has made enormous progress over the last few decades. Better nutrition, preventive healthcare, vaccinations and earlier diagnosis of disease all mean that dogs are living longer and healthier lives. Ages that were once considered exceptional are becoming increasingly common.

While genetics play an important role in how long a dog lives, there are many things we can do to support our dogs' health and wellbeing throughout their lives.

Here are 6 ways to help your dog live a longer, healthier life.

1. Regular Health Checkups

Regular veterinary visits can help detect health problems early, when they may be easier to treat.

As your dog gets older, your veterinarian may also recommend additional testing based on their age, breed, size and health history. For example, some older dogs may benefit from additional screening for conditions such as cancer.

Talk to your veterinarian about what preventative care is appropriate for your dog as they age.

2. Feed a Good-Quality Diet

A balanced, nutritious diet is an important part of keeping your dog healthy throughout their life.

Good nutrition also plays an important role in maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight can put extra strain on your dog's organs and joints and may contribute to inflammation and other age-related health problems.

As canine ageing expert Stefano Skert notes, maintaining a healthy weight is especially important as dogs get older.

3. Keep Your Dog Moving

Regular, moderate exercise is important at every stage of your dog's life.

Walking helps maintain a healthy weight, supports mobility and provides valuable mental stimulation. It can also help reduce boredom and destructive behaviours.

As your dog ages, their exercise needs may change. Shorter, more frequent walks may be more appropriate than long or strenuous outings. Let your dog's age, fitness level and health guide the amount and intensity of exercise.

4. Take Care of Their Teeth and Gums

Dental health is an often-overlooked part of your dog's overall wellbeing.

Plaque and bacteria can cause inflammation and painful dental disease. Chronic inflammation and infection in the mouth can also affect your dog's overall health.

Regular dental care at home, along with professional dental assessments when recommended by your veterinarian, can help keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy.

5. Keep Their Brain Active

Mental stimulation is just as important for older dogs as it is for younger ones.

Regular social interaction, training, enrichment activities and opportunities to explore can help keep your dog's mind engaged.

Something as simple as allowing your dog to stop and sniff during a walk provides valuable mental stimulation. Your dog's sense of smell helps them gather information about the world around them.

Puzzle toys, scent games, learning new behaviours and safe social interactions are other great ways to keep an older dog's brain active.

6. Reduce Anxiety and Stress

Chronic stress can affect your dog's overall wellbeing. Anxiety may be caused or worsened by loneliness, boredom, pain, changes in routine or other underlying health issues.

Watch for signs of anxiety such as:

• Whining or vocalizing

• Pacing or restlessness

• A tense body

• Excessive panting or yawning

• Trembling

• Excessive shedding

• Hypervigilance

If you notice changes in your dog's behaviour, don't simply assume they are getting old. Pain and other medical conditions can sometimes cause changes in behaviour.

Talk to your veterinarian if you are concerned and look for ways to make your dog's environment feel safe, predictable and enriching.

Helping Your Dog Age Well

There is no way to guarantee how long our dogs will live, but we can give them the best possible chance of enjoying a long and healthy life.

Good nutrition, regular veterinary care, exercise, dental care, mental stimulation and a low-stress environment all play an important role in your dog's overall wellbeing.

Most importantly, enjoy the time you have together. The goal isn't simply more years — it's more healthy, happy years together.

Source: How to Help Your Dog Live Longer, According to Canine Ageing Experts, MSN, citing canine ageing experts including Stefano Skert of Chelsea's CTvets.