Table of Contents
Take Our 30‑Second Quiz
Introduction
Just because your dog’s muzzle has turned gray doesn’t mean their spirit has slowed down. Many senior dogs still have that puppy sparkle — whether it’s a wagging tail, a spontaneous zoom across the living room, or a mischievous grin that says, “I’ve still got it.”
This quick quiz will help you discover how much “puppy” your senior dog still has inside. Grab a pen, print this page, and tally your answers to see your dog’s “Forever Puppy” score.
Why It Matters
As dogs age, their energy levels and play styles change, but their desire for fun, connection, and exploration never truly fades. Recognizing your senior dog’s personality type helps you tailor their play, nutrition, and care to keep that tail wagging for years to come.
Whether your pup is a mellow snuggler or a playful trickster, this quiz celebrates the joy and individuality of your lifelong companion.
The Quiz
| # | Question | A | B | C |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | How often does your senior dog try to start playtime? | A: Every day — still loves a good fetch! (3 pts) | B: Occasionally, when the mood strikes. (2 pts) | C: Rarely — prefers naps over toys. (1 pt) |
| 2 | When you bring out a new toy or treat, your dog… | A: Gets excited and runs to check it out! (3 pts) | B: Sniffs it first, then decides. (2 pts) | C: Looks unimpressed — “Been there, done that.” (1 pt) |
| 3 | How does your dog act on walks? | A: Pulls ahead, eager to explore every scent. (3 pts) | B: Walks calmly beside you, tail wagging. (2 pts) | C: Strolls slowly, taking frequent breaks. (1 pt) |
| 4 | How often does your dog do something silly or mischievous? | A: All the time — keeps me on my toes! (3 pts) | B: Sometimes, but usually well‑behaved. (2 pts) | C: Almost never — too wise for that now. (1 pt) |
| 5 | How does your dog greet you when you come home? | A: Full‑body wiggles and happy barks! (3 pts) | B: Tail wag and a calm hello. (2 pts) | C: Opens one eye, gives a lazy tail flick. (1 pt) |
| 6 | How does your dog react to new people or pets? | A: Curious and friendly — loves to meet everyone! (3 pts) | B: Polite and calm, but not overly excited. (2 pts) | C: Prefers to observe from a distance. (1 pt) |
| 7 | What best describes your dog’s energy level most days? | A: Still zooms around like a puppy! (3 pts) | B: Balanced — enjoys playtime and naps equally. (2 pts) | C: Mostly mellow, loves slow cuddles. (1 pt) |
Your Scorecard
Add up your points for each question:
| Question | Points |
|---|---|
| 1 | ____ |
| 2 | ____ |
| 3 | ____ |
| 4 | ____ |
| 5 | ____ |
| 6 | ____ |
| 7 | ____ |
| Total | ____ / 21 |
Results: What’s Your Dog’s “Inner Puppy” Score?
| Score Range | Result | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 17–21 points | Forever Puppy | Your senior dog’s energy could power a small city. They may have a few gray hairs, but their zest for life is unstoppable. Keep encouraging play, short adventures, and omega‑rich foods like salmon to support those joints and keep that sparkle alive. |
| 12–16 points | Balanced Buddy | The perfect mix of wisdom and whimsy. Your pup knows when to play and when to rest. Keep their mind active with puzzle toys, gentle walks, and nutritious meals that support joint and brain health. |
| 7–11 points | Golden Oldie | Your senior prefers cozy naps and slow strolls — and that’s perfectly fine. Focus on comfort, gentle enrichment, and lots of love. That spark in their eyes says it all: they’re still your puppy at heart. |
Keep That Puppy Spark
No matter your dog’s score, every senior deserves care that matches their spirit. Here are a few ways to keep tails wagging and hearts happy:
- Play, but make it gentle. Short play sessions or scent games keep them engaged without overdoing it.
- Feed for energy and comfort. Omega‑3‑rich foods like salmon support joints, digestion, and coat health.
- Keep their mind active. Puzzle toys, hide‑and‑seek, and teaching simple tricks can work wonders.
- Prioritize comfort. Soft bedding, joint supplements, and cozy spaces help them rest well.
Nutrition Boosts for Senior Energy
As dogs age, their metabolism and nutritional needs shift. A diet rich in healthy fats, lean proteins, and antioxidants can make a world of difference.
Consider adding:
- Salmon or sardines for omega‑3s
- Pumpkin for digestion
- Blueberries for antioxidants
- Oats for gentle fiber
If your pup enjoyed the quiz, they might love trying our Raw Salmon & Oats Energy Mix for Senior Dogs — a simple, omega‑rich recipe that supports energy, joints, and digestion.
Senior Dog Brain Games
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical activity. Try a few of these easy enrichment ideas:
- Hide treats around the house for a “sniff and seek” game.
- Use a muffin tin and tennis balls to create a simple puzzle feeder.
- Teach a new trick or refresh an old one — it builds confidence and keeps their brain sharp.
Even five minutes of brain work a day can help keep your senior dog’s mind young.
Senior Dog Comfort and Wellness
Senior dogs thrive when their environment supports their changing needs.
- Choose orthopedic beds or memory foam mats for joint support.
- Keep food and water bowls at a comfortable height.
- Use ramps or stairs to help them reach favorite spots safely.
- Maintain a gentle grooming routine to keep skin and coats healthy.
Small changes can make a big difference in their comfort and independence.
Vet’s Note: When to Check In
A playful spirit is a wonderful sign, but it’s important to stay mindful of your dog’s health.
Schedule a vet visit if you notice:
- Sudden changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs
- Increased thirst or bathroom accidents
- Behavior changes, confusion, or restlessness
Regular checkups and open communication with your vet help ensure your senior stays happy and healthy.
Celebrate Your Senior’s Joy
Every senior dog has their own rhythm — some still chase balls, others chase dreams in their sleep. What matters most is the love you share and the joy they bring every day.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
