You love your dog and naturally want him to be healthy and carefree in his golden years, just as he's always been. To make sure of this, follow these five tips:

A High Quality Diet

Your senior dog needs a good food that's high in nutrients, but likely lower in calories. Unless your older dog is very active, ask your vet about a food suitable for senior dogs who may not be as rambunctious as they once were. While it's very important he eats a well-balanced diet, the food you fed him in his younger years may not be the most appropriate now.

Regular Exercise

Of course, your senior dog isn't going to be jumping through hoops and chasing toys the way he once did, but he still needs regular exercise. A nice walk two or three times a day should do it, so stroll around the block a few times with him first thing in the morning, midday if your work schedule allows and definitely after dinner. These walks won't just be healthy for your dog, they'll also be good for you and whomever else brings him out for walks.

Maintaining A Healthy Weight

Too many people make excuses for their dog's weight, particularly as they age. This can lead to a number of health related complications if you're not careful. Be honest about what's going on with your older dog and listed to what your vet tells you about an ideal weight. If the dog is slow to get up, reluctant to exercise and expanding in his roundness at the same time, consider putting him on a restricted calorie diet. Since he is older, though, you need to follow more careful health guidelines.

Great Dental Care

Just like people, dogs need extra care of their teeth as they age. Offer your dog low-calorie chews that can help remover tartar build up on his teeth, or cookies that are specially designed to clean a dog's teeth. Consider a toothbrush, if you're brave and the pooch is tolerant - it can go a long way in preventing dental problems.

Annual Checkups

Even if your older dog appears to be in good health, make sure you take him to the vet on a yearly basis. The vet will evaluate his general health, weight, dental situation and other issues you may have missed or not be qualified to diagnose.

Your dog will live a longer, healthier life when you take good care of him. As he gets older, this is more important than ever.