The market is flooded with senior dog foods and it is difficult to know which one to pick.
We are on the same mission as you – keep our senior pups healthy and happy for many many years and find the best dog food for your dog’s needs
In this piece, we will suggest some of the best senior dog foods and talk about what is healthy and when and why to switch to senior dog food.
Before we start let’s go through ingredients that make dog food healthy, and at the same time take this list as our criteria for choosing these 15 senior dog foods:
- Lean Protein
- Healthy Fats
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole Grains
- Supplements
If you are looking to know more about senior dog nutrition, we created a Complete Guide To Senior Dog Nutrition, feel free to check it out when you get a chance.
With this in mind let’s begin.
Best Senior Dogs Foods
1. Blue Buffalo senior dog food: Life Protection Formula™
Blue Buffalo’s senior dog food formulas contain real proteins, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your aging dog’s immune system. It also includes glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and is free from chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, and soy
Blue Buffalo Senior Dog Food: Life Protection Formula™ is made without artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, making it a healthier option for your furry friend.
The kibble is small in size making it easier for senior dogs to chew and digest.
LifeSource Bits are not exposed to too much heat to prevent nutrient loss.
Food is designed to provide balanced nutrition for senior dogs. It contains real chicken and brown rice, a formula rich in high-quality protein, and contains wholesome grains for energy.
Key Ingredients and Nutrient Profile
The main ingredients in Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Dry Dog Food are deboned chicken, brown rice, blueberries, fish oil, flaxseed, chicken meal supplements, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) states that this formula meets the nutritional requirements for adult maintenance.
The guaranteed analysis shows that the food contains a minimum of 18% protein, 10% fat, and 7% fiber, with a maximum of 10% moisture.
Best for
- Immune system health
- supporting your dog’s muscle maintenance and energy needs
- cognitive function support
- joint health and mobility
Reviews
Pet owners report that their senior dogs love the taste of Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Dry Dog Food, and that it has helped improve their pet’s energy and overall health.
The added glucosamine and chondroitin are particularly beneficial for dogs with joint issues, and the formula’s antioxidants can help support a strong immune system.
Some pet owners have noted that the kibble is quite large, which may make it difficult for senior dogs with dental issues to chew.
2. Purina Pro Plan: Adult 7+ Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice
Purina Pro Plan features a range of senior dog foods, for various needs and conditions. For this article, we selected complete food for healthy senior dogs.
Purina Pro Plan senior dog food Adult 7+ Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice is a high-quality dry food designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for older dogs.
It features real chicken as the main ingredient and is blended with rice and other wholesome ingredients to provide a balanced and nutritious diet for your furry friend.
The shredded blend kibble is made with a mix of tender pieces and crunchy bits, providing a texture that dogs love.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
The main ingredients in Purina Pro Plan Senior Dry Dog Food are real chicken, rice, whole grain wheat, corn gluten meal, and poultry by-product meal. The formula also includes added vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids to support brain and cognitive health.
It also includes selenium for immune system support, as well as glucosamine and EPA for joint health.
The recipe contains no artificial colors or flavors.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) states that Purina Pro Plan Senior Dry Dog Food meets the nutritional requirements for adult maintenance.
The guaranteed analysis shows that the food contains a minimum of 26% protein, 12% fat, and 4% fiber, with a maximum of 12% moisture.
This food is best for
- immune system support
- joint health
- cognitive health
Reviews:
Many pet owners have reported positive results after switching their senior dogs to Purina Pro Plan Senior Dry Dog Food.
The high-quality protein from real chicken helps to maintain muscle mass, while the added vitamins and minerals support overall health and well-being.
The joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and EPA can be particularly beneficial for senior dogs with joint issues.
Some pet owners have noted that the kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs, or that their dogs did not enjoy the flavor as much as other brands.
Overall, Purina Pro Plan Senior Dry Dog Food is a good option for pet owners looking for a balanced and nutritious diet for their aging dogs.
3. Nutro Natural Choice: Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Nutro senior dog food Natural Choice Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is a dry dog food made with real chicken as the first ingredient and brown rice as the main source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin E and selenium, to support your senior dog’s immune system. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joints and mobility.
This formula also contains a blend of natural fibers to support healthy digestion.
Nutro Natural Choice Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, making it a healthier option for your furry friend.
The kibble is small in size, making it easier for senior dogs to chew and digest.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
The nutrient plan for Nutro Natural Choice Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is designed to provide balanced and complete nutrition for senior dogs. According to the product label, this dog food provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 25% minimum
Crude fat: 12% minimum
Crude fiber: 4% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Calcium: 0.9% minimum
Phosphorus: 0.7% minimum
Vitamin E: 60 IU/kg minimum
Glucosamine: 150 mg/kg minimum
Chondroitin sulfate: 350 mg/kg minimum
These values are formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult maintenance.
Best for
- immune system support
- joint health
- healthy digestion
Reviews
According to customer reviews, many dogs love the taste of this dog food and experience improved energy levels and mobility after switching to it.
Some reviewers also noted that their dogs experienced healthier skin and coats after eating Nutro Natural Choice Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe.
Overall, Nutro Natural Choice Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe is a high-quality dog food that provides balanced and complete nutrition for senior dogs.
4. Royal Canin: Medium Aging 10+ Pouch Dog Food
Royal Canin senior dog food selection features a plethora of specialized formulas for all sizes, ages, and breeds.
Foods are made with highly digestible proteins and added fiber to promote optimal digestion and support overall health.
Royal Canin Medium Aging 10+ Pouch Dog Food is a wet dog food specially formulated for medium-sized dogs aged 10 years and older.
We specifically selected this small pouch bag because it is affordable and the best way to test the food.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
The formula includes chicken, pork by-products, and wheat gluten. It also contains a blend of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin C, and beta-carotene, to support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Royal Canin Medium Aging 10+ Pouch Dog Food provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 7.5% minimum
Crude fat: 4.5% minimum
Crude fiber: 1.9% maximum
Moisture: 82% maximum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 0.8% minimum
This dog food is also formulated with EPA and DHA, which are omega-3 fatty acids that support brain and cognitive health, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
Best for
- immune system support
- healthy digestion
- joint health
- cognitive health
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs enjoy the taste of the food and experience improved mobility and overall health after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the wet texture of the food makes it easier for their senior dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Royal Canin Medium Aging 10+ Pouch Dog Food provides a nutrient-rich and balanced option for senior dogs, with a focus on joint, digestive, and immune health support.
5. Hill’s: Healthy Advantage Adult 7+ dog food
Hill’s science diet senior dog foods are my personal go-to. The brand was recommended to me 14 years ago by the vet, and I haven’t looked back ever since.
This veterinarian-recommended brand is made with high-quality ingredients, antioxidants for a strong immune system and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
Hill’s Healthy Advantage Adult 7+ dog food is a dry dog food formulated for adult dogs aged 7 years and older.
Key ingredients and Nutrient profile
This dog food includes chicken, brown rice, barley, and a blend of natural fibers, including beet pulp and flaxseed, to support healthy digestion. Additionally, this formula is enriched with vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, to support immune system health.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Hill’s Healthy Advantage Adult 7+ dog food provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 19.5% minimum
Crude fat: 11.5% minimum
Crude fiber: 4.5% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Calcium: 0.7% minimum
Phosphorus: 0.6% minimum
Vitamin E: 400 IU/kg minimum
Glucosamine: 400 mg/kg minimum
Chondroitin sulfate: 300 mg/kg minimum
This dog food is also formulated with omega-6 fatty acids to support skin and coat health, as well as natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
Best for
- joint health support
- digestive health support
- immune system support
- sensitive stomach support
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs enjoy the taste of the food and experience improved mobility and overall health after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the smaller kibble size is easier for their senior dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Hill’s Healthy Advantage Adult 7+ dog food provides a balanced and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on joint, digestive, and immune health support.
6. IAMS™: HEALTHY AGING LARGE BREED
IAMS senior dog food Healthy Aging Large Breed is a dry dog food specially formulated for large-breed senior dogs aged 8 years and older.
This dog food is best for large-breed senior dogs who may require additional support for their joint, digestive, and immune health. It is also suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
This dog food includes chicken, whole-grain barley, and whole-grain sorghum. It also contains a blend of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and beta-carotene, to support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, IAMS Healthy Aging Large Breed provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 24% minimum
Crude fat: 11% minimum
Crude fiber: 5% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 1.99% minimum
This dog food is also formulated with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support joint health, as well as L-carnitine to help maintain a healthy weight.
Best for
- joint health support
- digestive health support
- immune system support
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their large breed senior dogs enjoy the taste of the food and experience improved mobility and overall health after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the larger kibble size is easier for their larger dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, IAMS Healthy Aging Large Breed provides a balanced and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on joint, digestive, and immune health support.
7. Diamond: SENIOR DOG CHICKEN, EGG & OATMEAL FORMULA
Diamond senior dog food Chicken, Egg & Oatmeal Formula is a dry dog food specially formulated for senior dogs aged 7 years and older.
Key ingredients and nutritive profile
Key ingredients in this dog food include chicken, egg products, oatmeal, and brown rice. It also contains a blend of vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, to support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Diamond Senior Dog Chicken, Egg & Oatmeal Formula provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 25% minimum
Crude fat: 11% minimum
Crude fiber: 4.5% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Calcium: 1% minimum
Phosphorus: 0.8% minimum
Vitamin E: 150 IU/kg minimum
Glucosamine: 300 mg/kg minimum
Chondroitin sulfate: 100 mg/kg minimum
This dog food is also formulated with added L-carnitine to help maintain a healthy weight, and omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to support skin and coat health.
Best for
- immunity
- general health
- joint support
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs enjoy the taste of the food and experience improved mobility and overall health after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the smaller kibble size is easier for their senior dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Diamond Senior Dog Chicken, Egg & Oatmeal Formula provides a balanced and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on joint, digestive, and immune health support.
8. Orijen: SENIOR
Orijen’s senior dog food Senior formula is a biologically appropriate diet that includes a variety of fresh, whole meats like free-run chicken and turkey, cage-free eggs, and wild-caught fish.
It is also fortified with botanicals to support immune health and has added glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and fresh and raw fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, and spinach, to provide a complete and balanced diet for your senior dog.
This dog food is also formulated with a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It is free from grains, gluten, and potato, and contains no artificial preservatives or additives.
Key ingredients and nutritive profile
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Orijen Senior provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 38% minimum
Crude fat: 15% minimum
Crude fiber: 8% maximum
Moisture: 12% maximum
Omega-3 fatty acids: 1% minimum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 3.2% minimum
Glucosamine: 1400 mg/kg minimum
Chondroitin sulfate: 1200 mg/kg minimum
Best for
- joint health support
- digestive health support
- immune system support
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs love the taste of the food and experience improved energy and mobility after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their senior dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Orijen Senior provides a high-quality and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on joint, digestive, and immune health support, and a commitment to using only the highest-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
9. Canidae: PURE Dry Dog Food
Canidae senior dog food PURE Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato and Garbanzo Bean Recipe is a dry dog food specially formulated for senior dogs aged 7 years and older.
This dog food includes chicken, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans, peas, and lentils. It is also free from grains, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Key ingredients and nutritive profile
On the product label, Canidae PURE Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato and Garbanzo Bean Recipe provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 28% minimum
Crude fat: 10% minimum
Crude fiber: 5% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 2.5% minimum
Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.4% minimum
This dog food is also formulated with a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
Best for
- sensitive stomachs or allergies
- suitable for dogs who require a grain-free diet for optimal health
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs enjoy the taste of the food and experience improved energy and digestion after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their senior dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Canidae PURE Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Garbanzo Bean Recipe provide a high-quality and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on digestive health and a commitment to using only the highest-quality, globally sourced ingredients.
10. Nulo: FreeStyle High
Nulo senior dog food Freestyle Senior Trout & Sweet Potato Recipe is a high-protein dry dog food specially formulated for senior dogs aged 7 years and older.
This dog food is also formulated with a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
Food includes trout, turkey meal, salmon meal, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas. It is also free from grains, soy, corn, wheat, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Nulo Freestyle Senior Trout & Sweet Potato Recipe provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 30% minimum
Crude fat: 12% minimum
Crude fiber: 5% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.65% minimum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 2.75% minimum
Glucosamine: 900 mg/kg minimum
Chondroitin sulfate: 600 mg/kg minimum
Best for
- joint support
- sensitive stomach
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs love the taste of the food and experience improved energy and mobility after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their senior dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Nulo Freestyle Senior Trout & Sweet Potato Recipe provides a high-quality and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on protein and joint health support, and a commitment to using only the highest-quality, globally sourced ingredients.
11. Taste of the Wild: Ancient Stream Canine Recipe
Taste of the Wild senior dog food Ancient Stream Canine Recipe is a high-protein, grain-free dry dog food that is made with real smoked salmon as the first ingredient.
This dog food is also formulated with a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s immune system and overall health. It contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
Food includes salmon, ocean fish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. It is also free from grains, corn, wheat, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream Canine Recipe provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 25% minimum
Crude fat: 15% minimum
Crude fiber: 3% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.8% minimum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 2.4% minimum
Best for
- dogs that require high protein diet
- sensitive stomach and allergies
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their dogs love the taste of the food and experience improved digestion, energy, and coat condition after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream Canine Recipe provides a high-quality and nutrient-rich option for dogs, with a focus on protein from real fish and a commitment to using only the highest-quality, globally sourced ingredients.
12. NutriSource: Senior Recipe
NutriSource senior dog food Senior Recipe is a dry dog food specifically formulated and designed to provide a complete and balanced diet that supports your dog’s overall health and wellness.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
Food includes chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal, and peas. It also contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, NutriSource Senior Recipe provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 26% minimum
Crude fat: 12% minimum
Crude fiber: 6% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.4% minimum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 2.2% minimum
This dog food is also free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. It is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients sourced from around the world.
Best for
- dogs with reduced energy needs
- sensitive stomach
- weight loss
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs love the taste of the food and experience improved energy, digestion, and coat condition after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, NutriSource Senior Recipe provides a high-quality and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on real chicken and a commitment to using only the highest-quality ingredients.
13. Fromm: REDUCED ACTIVITY & SENIOR GOLD
Fromm senior dog food Reduced Activity & Senior Gold is a dry dog food that is specially formulated for senior dogs or dogs with lower energy needs. This dog food provides a complete and balanced diet that helps maintain your dog’s overall health and wellness.
This dog food is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers. Fromm is committed to using only the best ingredients and avoiding artificial additives, fillers, and by-products.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
Food includes duck, chicken meal, brown rice, pearled barley, oatmeal, and potatoes. It also contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Fromm Reduced Activity & Senior Gold provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 23% minimum
Crude fat: 11% minimum
Crude fiber: 3.5% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.6% minimum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 2.1% minimum
Best for
- overall health and wellness
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs love the taste of the food and experience improved digestion and coat condition after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their dogs to chew and digest.
Overall, Fromm Reduced Activity & Senior Gold provides a high-quality and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on real meat and a commitment to using only the highest-quality ingredients
14. Wellness: Complete Health Senior
Wellness senior dog food Complete Health Senior is a dry dog food specially formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition for senior dogs. It is designed to support the unique nutritional needs of older dogs to help them maintain their health and vitality.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
Food includes deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, peas, and sweet potatoes. It also contains a blend of fruits, vegetables, and botanicals to provide a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
According to the nutrient profile on the product label, Wellness Complete Health Senior provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 22% minimum
Crude fat: 10% minimum
Crude fiber: 4% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-3 fatty acids: 0.75% minimum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 2.75% minimum
This dog food is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. It also does not contain any wheat, corn, or soy, which are common allergens for dogs.
Best for
- maintaining healthy weight
- joint support
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs love the taste of the food and experience improved digestion, coat condition, and energy levels after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their dogs to chew.
Overall, Wellness Complete Health Senior is a high-quality and nutrient-rich option for senior dogs, with a focus on real meat and a commitment to using only the highest-quality ingredients.
15. Eukanuba: SENIOR MEDIUM BREED DRY DOG FOOD
Eukanuba senior dog food Medium Breed Dry Dog Food is specially formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition for senior dogs of medium-sized breeds weighing between 24 and 55 pounds.
Key ingredients and nutrient profile
This dog food includes chicken as the first ingredient, as well as chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, and barley. It also contains a blend of vegetables and fruits to provide a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Eukanuba Senior Medium Breed Dry Dog Food provides the following guaranteed analysis:
Crude protein: 27% minimum
Crude fat: 12% minimum
Crude fiber: 5% maximum
Moisture: 10% maximum
Omega-6 fatty acids: 2.5% minimum
This dog food is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. It also does not contain any soy protein, which is a common allergen for dogs.
Best for
- complete care
Reviews
Customer reviews of this dog food are generally positive, with many customers reporting that their senior dogs have improved digestion, energy levels, and coat condition after switching to it.
Some reviewers noted that the kibble size is small and easy for their dogs to chew.
Overall, Eukanuba Senior Medium Breed Dry Dog Food is a high-quality and nutritious option for senior dogs of medium-sized breeds, with a focus on real meat and a commitment to using only the highest-quality ingredients.
Is Senior Dog Food Necessary?
Many pet owners wonder if senior dog food is necessary.
The answer is yes.
Senior dog food is formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of aging dogs. Older dogs need fewer calories than younger dogs, and their digestion slows down, making it harder for them to process some ingredients. Senior dog food helps address these issues by providing the right balance of nutrients and ingredients that are easy to digest.
Does senior dog food make a difference?
Yes, senior dog food can make a difference in the dog’s health and well-being of older dogs.
Here are some specific benefits of the best senior dog food:
- Joint Health: As dogs age, their joints may become stiffer and less flexible, leading to discomfort and even mobility issues. Senior dog foods contain ingredients that help support joint health and alleviate pain.
- Digestive Health: Older dogs may experience digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea, and senior dog food can help address these problems. Senior dog foods contain natural sources of fiber like brown rice, peas, and carrots, which can promote healthy digestion and bowel movements.
- Reduced Caloric Density: Senior dogs tend to be less active than younger dogs, so they require fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Senior dog foods are formulated with lower caloric density to prevent weight gain and promote healthy body conditions.
- Immune System Support: Older dogs may have weakened immune systems, which can make them more susceptible to illness and disease. Senior dog foods often contain added antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene, which can help support immune function.
- Dental Health: Senior dogs’ teeth may become weaker and more prone to dental problems like gum disease and tooth decay. Some senior dog foods are formulated with kibble that is specially designed to help clean teeth and promote oral health.
- Kidney Health: Older dogs are more prone to kidney disease, and senior dog food may contain reduced levels of phosphorus, which can help support kidney function.
When to Switch to Senior Dog Food:
It is recommended to switch to senior dog food when your dog is 7 years or older.
However, the age at which you should switch to senior dog food can vary depending on the breed and size of your dog.
Some senior dogs won’t eat senior dog food due to health issues, however, there are many options to make food more tasty and appealing.
Large breed dogs may need to switch to senior dog food earlier than small breed dogs.
Ingredients to look for in senior dog food: takeaways
When shopping for senior dog food, look for ingredients that support joint health, digestion, and overall health.
Here are some ingredients included in the best senior dog food:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin: These ingredients help support joint health and mobility.
- High-quality protein: Look for dog food that contains high-quality protein from sources like turkey, chicken meal, or beef to help maintain muscle mass.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These fatty acids are essential for healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall health.
- Antioxidants: Senior dog food with antioxidants like blueberries, cranberries, and omega-3 can help support the immune system and overall health.
- Fiber: Fiber is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation in older dogs.
Choosing the right food for your senior dog is important for their health and well-being.
By understanding the nutritional needs of senior dogs and the options available, you can make an informed decision about what food will best suit your dog’s individual needs.
Consulting with your veterinarian can also help you determine the best diet for your senior dog.
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