What Food is Best for Senior Dogs?
Your dog has now joined senior- hood! Gone are the days your dog would romp all over the yard. His appetite has reduced, and his current hobby is sleeping on the bed!
Even though your dog has developed a gray muzzle and poor vision— you must continue providing it with the best senior dog food.
I know you have seen lots of diets in your local pet shop that all look good- However, don’t choose any dog food since it’s rumored to be the best, doing proper research before you settle on any commercial dog food is crucial.
To make your work easier, we have detailed everything you need to know as you go to choose nutrient-dense dog food for senior dogs.
VIDEO: How To Pick Good Dog Food
What age is a dog a senior?
When a small dog reaches 11-12 years of age, he or she becomes a senior citizen in the canine community. At the age of 10, their medium-sized friends become seniors. At the age of 8, their larger-sized colleagues are seniors. At 7 years old, their giant-breed counterparts are seniors.
Table of Contents
Does Senior Dog Food Make a Difference?
There is no doubt that the answer is yes!
The reasons are:
- High-quality protein sources are in greater amounts than adult maintenance formulas to support lean muscle mass.
- There is also an appropriate caloric balance between fats and proteins.
- Plus additional nutrients, like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to support joint health and mobility.
Dog Food for Senior Dogs
Choosing a proper diet for your senior dog will see your furry friend develop a healthy coat, improved vision, and strong immune system.
I know there is lots of conflicting information all over the internet and in journals about the diet needs of a senior dog. Another thing, AAFCO [1] (who establish standard ingredient definitions and nutritional requirements for pet foods), doesn’t detail well on the best nutrient profile suitable for old dogs. That might confuse you further!
So, here are the key details you need to consider when choosing the best senior dog food.
Quality, Quality, Quality!
Ideally, you want to see a NAMED meat/protein 1st on the label and preferably 2nd and 3rd on the label too!
If it’s meat 1st and 2nd 3rd and 4th are grains (barley, oats, grain) then you are primarily feeding your dog a grain-based food!
Look for nutrient-dense veggies and fruits (carrots, peas, kelp, blueberries, or pumpkin) as well as natural colors and preservatives (rosemary, vitamin C [ascorbic acid], vitamin E [mixed tocopherols]).
While these natural preservatives do not have as long shelf life as chemical ones, they are far safer and better for your dog.
For more info on this and how to read a dog food label, check out our blog on Toxins in Dog Food!
Controlled Calorie Intake
Compared to adults or puppies, elderly dogs have slowed metabolism.
During this phase, they rarely enjoy activities that they once practiced well, therefore overloading your dog with high-calorie dog food for senior dogs will prove fatal.
High calories and inactivity will lead to weight gain. This excess weight will overburden the dog’s vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Thus consider a diet with reduced calories- you can always find this information on the food bag or the dog food company website.
Protein Content
Pet owners, canine nutritionists, and vets never have a standard agreement on whether to give senior dogs food with high protein or not.
Some corners say high protein content might overload the kidney of an elderly dog—whereas other sources advocate for high protein content in the diets for elderly dogs.
Elderly dogs are predisposed to high muscle wasting because of their inactive nature.
In case of that, giving your dog high protein senior dog food will improve muscle mass and promote muscle repair.
Nevertheless, consider the quality of proteins you give your senior dog.
The best senior dog food should stay clear of rendered meats or meat by-products.
During the senior hood phase, you need to pamper your dog with the best meat proteins. More so, your dog deserves it for keeping you happy all these years!
Treats for Senior Dogs
As one of the thumb rules, treats should not take more than 10 % of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Moreover, consider healthy treats that have no high salt content. You can consider natural treats with no preservatives or chemicals that might affect your dog’s quality of life.
Check out our blog on the best dog treats.
The Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs
There is no one-size-fits-all when dealing with the best dog food for senior dogs. What your friend’s senior dog might benefit from might not be the same for your dog. If everything seems confusing, a discussion with your vet can help. The vet can tailor a good diet fit for your old dog.
For example, a dog with heart issues will need a different diet from a dog with urinary tract issues.
Here are some helpful tips to help you pick the best senior dog food for your dog.
Consider Your Dog's Health Issues
As mentioned, senior dogs with health issues will need a different diet than other healthy dog breeds.
For example, a dog with kidney problems needs a diet with controlled sodium and protein levels.
Also, a dog with heart issues will need low sodium dog food for senior dogs, or a renal Support Low Protein diet [2] can ensure your dog has the proper balance to help them maintain optimal kidney or liver health.
Prescription dog food recipes are explicitly formulated to meet the critical nutritional requirements of dogs and are prescribed by veterinarians based on their patients’ needs.
Palatability and Kibble Size
Most senior dog foods have low appetite.
Thus the best senior dog food should be tasty to compel your dog back to the bowl.
However, this dog food should not contain harmful flavors that won’t settle well with your dog’s tummy.
Look for natural flavors and colors and preservatives. Understanding the dog food label is important so you know exactly what you are feeding your dog.
Check out our article, Toxins in Dog Foods!
You will also need to consider the kibble size. The pellets should not be that big or hard for your senior dog to chew. If your dog has few teeth, kibble might not be the best option—choose the best-wet dog food for senior dogs that will still meet its nutritional needs..
High Fiber Content
Constipation is always an issue with senior dogs. You can combat this digestion issue by choosing a diet full of soluble and insoluble fibers.
Fiber will improve bowel movement, ensuring your dog has a well-formed stool.
Consider Dog Food with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and Omega Fatty Acids
The best senior dog food for arthritis or dogs with joint issues will have considerable quantities of glucosamine and chondroitin.
Glucosamine and chondroitin in dog food promote joint health and flexibility beneficial as your dog enjoys its sunset days.
Also, a senior dog expressing vision or memory loss will benefit from a diet enriched with omega fatty acids.
A great product for joint issues in senior dogs is Dr. Mercola Joint Support Dog & Cat Supplement (video above)
- Formulated with seven active ingredients to promote joint mobility, flexibility and range of motion in cats and dogs.
- With collagen and MSM to nourish joint-cushioning cartilage, and vitamin C for antioxidant protection.
- Supports a healthy immune system and combats inflammation with bromelain and green-lipped mussel.
What Senior Dog Food Makes a Difference?
With a market rife with choices, you want to make sure that your dog is getting the best nutriotion possibe.
Don’t worry, the Dog Food Specialists are here to highlight the top contenders so you can make an informed decision about the best senior dog food for your companion!
Best Grain Free Senior Dog Food
Beef & Russet Potato Recipe
Just Food For Dogs only use the finest human-edible ground beef in this healthy dog recipe.
Beef is considered a high-quality source of protein and is also rich in iron and zinc, as well as vitamins B12 and B6.
Beef liver is a nutrient-dense food that contains a concentrated volume of protein and vitamin A.
It’s a rich source of heme iron, the most absorbable form of iron, and is high in bioavailable copper, folate, riboflavin, niacin, phosphorus and zinc.
This high-calorie diet incorporates human-edible ground beef, russet and sweet potatoes, as well as an assortment of fruits and vegetables.
The result is a wholesome, fully balanced ground beef recipe for dogs that’s perfect for active adult dogs and/or underweight dogs.
Key Facts
Beef and Beef Liver for Dogs
Gluten-Free
Grain-Free
No Preservatives
No Growth Hormones
44 Calories per Ounce
Best Dry dog Food for Senior Dogs
ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
With 85% premium animal ingredients, each ORIJEN dog food recipe provides a strong source of essential protein, vitamins and minerals in their most nourishing forms.
It’s a high-protein diet designed to feed your best friend’s carnivorous cravings.
Fresh ingredients preserved solely through refrigeration and raw ingredients frozen at the peak of freshness stay true to their form.
This minimalist approach preserves important nutrients and keeps closer to the diet your canine evolved to eat.
Key Benefits
- Crafted with 85% premium animal ingredients including poultry and fish, for a strong source of essential protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- The first 5 ingredients are always fresh or raw animal protein.
- Packed with WholePrey nutrition featuring nutrient-rich organs.
- Made in the USA with the world’s finest ingredients.
- Freeze-dried coated for a burst of raw flavor!
Senior Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Turkey & Potato Recipe Senior Dry Dog Food
This delicious diet is made from fewer ingredients and selected with care to support dogs with food sensitivities.
All Blue Buffalo Basics recipes start with real meat from a single animal protein source not often used in dog food, plus pumpkin and easily digested carbohydrates.
The senior recipe also includes ingredients like taurine for heart health support plus glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health and overall mobility.
Key Benefits
- Limited ingredient formula doesn’t contain any chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy or eggs—making it a good option for senior dogs with food sensitivities.
- Features a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected to support your pal’s immune system, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance.
- Made with natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals.
- Contains no chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
Best Senior Wet Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior Chicken Dinner with Garden Vegetables
This starts with high-quality protein from tender pieces of chicken, packed with garden fruits and veggies, then enhanced with vitamins and minerals like glucosamine and chondroitin.
Formulated to help support healthy muscle maintenance, this pate-style food is made with wholesome ingredients that do not contain any by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
Key Benefits
- 12-pack of 12.5-ounce cans.
- Starts with real chicken to help support healthy muscle maintenance.
- Serve as a special treat, mixed with dry food or all on its own as an entree.
- Formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility.
- Does not contain any by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
Best Senior Dog Food for Arthritis
Hill's Prescription Diet j/d Joint Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food
Improving your dogs mobility is as easy as feeding the right nutrition.
Being proactive about mobility issues early can avoid the need for more aggressive treatments.
Hill’s Prescription Diet j/d helps your dog walk, run and jump more easily in just 21 days.
Key Benefits
- Improving your dog’s mobility can be as easy as feeding the right nutrition
- Help improve your dog’s ability to run, walk and jump in as little as 21 days with a clinically proven combination of nutrients
- An excellent source of the Omega 3 fatty acid, EPA, to nourish cartilage
- Controlled calorie content and added L-carnitine help maintain a healthy weight and avoid extra stress on joints
- Enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate and controlled calories and added L-carnitine for a healthy and highly palatable formula your dog will love
Veterinary Authorization
This item needs authorization from your veterinarian. Simply provide your pet and vet clinic information at Checkout and we’ll follow up with your veterinarian to confirm.
If you have a copy of your authorization, you can expedite the process by uploading a scan or photo of it to the Prescriptions section in your account or your order confirmation.
You can also email it to vetdiet@chewy.com.
Human Food for Senior Dogs
Frozen Human-Grade Fresh Dog Food
JustFoodForDogs Chicken & White Rice Recipe Fresh Frozen Dog Food
This recipe is the perfect combination of fresh chicken, long-grain white rice, spinach, carrots and apples.
It’s high in calcium and phosphorus, making it perfect for growing puppies, and is nutritionally balanced for the long-term feeding of both puppies and adult dogs.
Chicken thigh meat is an excellent source of protein, vitamins B5 and B6, iron, phosphorus, zinc, selenium and niacin.
It is often overlooked that chicken thigh meat delivers more vitamins and minerals than its white meat counterparts.
REAL INGREDIENTS!
Chicken Thighs, Liver, and Gizzard
Chicken and Rice for Dogs and Puppies
USA-Harvested Whole Rice
Gluten-Free
No Preservatives
43 Calories per Ounce
JustFoodForDogs is the most research-and-education-focused fresh pet food company in the industry.
Their veterinary team teaches the nutrition rotation for veterinary students at Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine.
Best Senior Dog Food for Small Breeds
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.
This Small Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken and is formulated to meet the specific needs of small breed senior dogs.
Key Benefits
- Essential, high-quality protein for healthy muscle maintenance and carbs for energy to stay active
- Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth and special-sized kibble for smaller jaws that promote tartar removal
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility
- Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants for immune system health
- No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals
Best dog food for senior dogs with bad teeth
JustFoodForDogs PantryFresh Beef & Russet Potato Recipe Fresh Dog Food
This isn’t your ordinary ground beef dog food recipe!
This high-calorie diet incorporates human-edible ground beef, russet and sweet potatoes, as well as an assortment of fruits and vegetables.
The result is a wholesome, fully balanced diet that’s perfect for active adult dogs and/or underweight dogs.
And thanks to its innovative “Tetra Pak” packaging, every PantryFresh meal can be stored unopened on the shelf for up to two years, making it the perfect option for traveling or when boarding your dog.
Key Benefits
Beef and Beef Liver
Gluten-Free
Grain-Free
No Preservatives
No Growth Hormones
36 Calories per Ounce
Stored in Your Pantry – Refrigerate After Opening
Best Large Breed Senior Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Large Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.
This Large Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe features delicious, protein-rich deboned chicken and contains the ingredients to support the special needs of large breed senior dogs such as glucosamine and chondroitin.
Key Benefits
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
- Essential, high-quality protein and L-Carnitine for healthy muscle maintenance and carbs for energy to stay active
- Calcium, phosphorus and essential vitamins for strong bones and teeth
- Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants for immune system health
- No corn, wheat, soy or chicken (or poultry) by-product meals
Best Senior Dog Food for Weight Loss
VICTOR Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food
Senior light dog food has low-fat content and reduced calories, perfect for old dogs predisposed to weight gain.
Obesity or excessive weight gain is always a concern for elderly dogs.
Extra weight puts pressure on vital organs like the heart. More so, this excess weight might cause immobility and joint deterioration. That’s why starting your senior dog on such a diet is crucial.
Besides that, senior light dog food has quality proteins that stop muscles from wearing out, common in elderly dogs.
A potent blend of selenium, mineral complexes, prebiotics and probiotics helps support good canine health and well-being.
This multi-protein, nutrient-dense formula is specially formulated for dogs that are susceptible to joint issues.
This diet is ideal for less active paw-tners and dogs that need to reduce overall weight.
Grain-Free Senior Dog Food
While surfing the internet, you will find controversial information about grain-free senior dog food.
What is grain-free senior dog food? Grain-free food is a recipe free of grains like wheat, corn, and sorghum. Even though it’s free of these grains, such a dog food contains other carbohydrate sources instead, such as
- potatoes.
- sweet potato.
- peas.
- amaranth.
- tapioca.
Nevertheless, most pet owners are skeptical about picking a grain-free diet for their dogs. That’s after FDA( Food and Drug Administration), in July 2018, reported that it was investigating reports of DCM [3] (dilated cardiomyopathy) cases in dogs that were on grain-free food.
The FDA [4] received over 500 cases.
After analysis, legumes like lentils and chickpeas were the culprits.
With that said, don’t join the craze of leaving out grains in dog food. Every dog is an individual like we human beings. Some respond well to grains, and others don’t.
If your senior dog has no allergies or sensitivity to grains, then nothing should bar you from letting your dog eat lots of them. However, as in all things, moderation is crucial!
What Is The Best Senior Dog Food For Sensitive Stomachs?
As your dog ages, he might develop a sensitive stomach that needs a specialized diet.
Here is how you can tell your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Excess drooling after eating
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fur loss
- Excess itchiness
The vet will help analyze why your dog has a sensitive stomach. Afterward, the vet might place your dog on a prescription diet tailored for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Nevertheless, if you suspect your dog has a sensitive stomach prioritize quality. Steer clear away from dog food for senior dogs which have artificial flavor, preservatives, and colors . Always look for natural products in the ingredient list.
What Is The Best Senior Small Dog Food?
Senior small dogs need a special diet that will suit their tiny bodies and energy levels.
Here are some tips that will help you choose the best small breed senior dog food
Small Kibble Is the Best
Small dogs have small teeth and tiny throats that might not accommodate big kibble- look for small pellets that promote chewing.
It Should Be a Balanced Diet
The nutrients in this dog food for small senior dogs should be named and balanced.
Digestible Ingredients
The dog food for small dogs would have easy-to-digest ingredients that will not be harsh on your dog’s tummy. Also, avoid brands that include ingredients with hard-to-read names—this is where they hide harmful ingredients that will deteriorate your pet’s health.
To Sum Up, Look For
1. Named protein source (Beef, Chicken, Salmon, etc)
2. Nutrient-Rich Vegetables and Fruit (carrots, peas, kelp, blueberries or pumpkin etc
3.Natural flavours and preservatives (Vit C, vitamin E (mixed tocopherols), or rosemary.
4.Named Fat and Oil Source (salmon oil, coconut oil, etc)
The Best Wet Food for Senior Dogs
Even though dry dog food has high-calorie content, it’s not always the best for senior dogs.
Here is why you might need to give your senior dog wet dog food
- Your old dog rarely drinks water- the high moisture content provides hydration for those pets who rarely visit the water bowl.
- It’s also a good option for those dogs predisposed to urinary tract issues
- The best choice for picky eaters
All dogs love wet food. Thus, canned/wet dog food will be the best option if you have a senior picky eater. You can also mix wet dog food with dry food to enhance the kibble palatability.
- Wet food is suitable for pets with few teeth
During his golden years, your pet might not have lots of teeth. Thus the best option will be wet dog food for senior dogs.
Canned food has lots of benefits. Nevertheless, the best-wet dog food for senior dogs that you choose should not deviate from your dog’s nutritional needs.
Human Food for Senior Dogs
Senior dogs can still get some nutritional benefits from human foods. However, not all human delicacies might be good for your dog. That pizza may be yummy for your pet; however, it may lead to gassiness and diarrhea.
Here is a list of healthy human food for senior dogs:
- Baby carrots
- Broccoli
- Green beans
- Spinach
- Cooked eggs
- Fish
- Pork
- Beef
Even though these foods for humans are nutritious, moderation is key. Remember not to overload your senior dog with many calories. And don’t forget, some foods found in your kitchen can be toxic to dogs. Check out our blog on: 20 foods found in your kitchen that are toxic to your dog!.
Best Senior Dog Food - Final Thoughts
The best dog food for senior dogs will provide the essential nutrients that your dog needs during his sunset years.
When purchasing the best dog food for your senior canine companion, don’t go for a specific brand since you’ve heard it’s the best- your dog’s needs might be different. Consider your dog’s health status, metabolism, and size. Bombarding your dog with any diet, you see out there in the market might not settle well with your pet.
Nevertheless, keep your vet in the loop as you look to transition your pet from adult food to senior dog food.
Did you know that a dog’s gut health has a significant influence on its overall health?
A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract! discover why this supplement is vital for your dog’s immune system and overall health-check out our blog on the best probiotics for dogs.
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_of_American_Feed_Control_Officials
- https://prf.hn/click/camref:1101lkcKC/destination:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2Fjustfoodfordogs-veterinary-diet–
- https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/questions-answers-fdas-work-potential-causes-non-hereditary-
- https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/outbreaks-and-advisories/fda-investigation-potential-link-between-certain-diets-
