Best Senior Dog Food
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What’s the Best Food for Older Dogs?
As your dog’s muzzle begins to turn grey, you might find yourself asking… what’s the best dog food for a senior?
On this page…
We’ll share The Dog Food Advisor’s best senior dog foods for 2024… and we’ll answer the 8 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding older dogs.
Many of the outstanding senior recipes listed below were chosen by our research team because they contain:
- Above-average protein
- Below-average calories
- No high-risk preservatives
While others (like fresh and wet recipes) were selected because they’re soft and easy to chew… which makes each a safe option for dogs with missing teeth or other dental issues.
In addition…
None is considered a repeat offender when it comes to deadly aflatoxin in its recent recall history.
Which makes each an ideal choice for older dogs.
Best Senior Dog Food April 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for senior dogs for April 2024.
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1. Ollie Chicken with Carrots Dog Food
A veterinarian-designed meal that’s optimized for your dog’s age, weight, breed size and activity level. Made with 100% human-grade ingredients. Ollie chicken with carrots is one of 4 fresh recipes included in our review of the Ollie product line.
This Ollie recipe is human-grade and gets most of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 11% fat and 44% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 30%.
An exceptional fresh canine diet. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, carrots, peas, rice, chicken liver Type Grain-inclusive, fresh Protein Percentage 37% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"My 15 yr old Yorkie loves the chicken flavor and no longer needs an enticement to eat. I am so glad I tried this food."
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2. Nom Nom Beef Mash Fresh Dog Food
If you’ve always wished you could feed your dog a homemade meal but without all the hard work, this Nom Nom recipe makes it possible… and easy.
Beef Mash is one of 4 fresh wet recipes covered in our review of the Nom Nom Dog Food product line.
Nom Nom Beef Mash gets most of its animal protein from fresh ground beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 35% protein, 17% fat and 40% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
This human-grade recipe has been designed for all life stages (including seniors) by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Beef Mash and Turkey Fare formulas have lower fat-to-protein ratios than the other recipes… which may make them safer picks for older dogs.
An exceptional, grain-free option… ideal for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet that’s as close to homemade as you can get. Not cheap. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas Texture Wet Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 35% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at NomNomNow"Mya has suffered from colitis & IBS for many years, and she's also the pickiest with food. Since being on Nom Nom she is eating much better & has perfect poop!!!"
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3. The Farmer's Dog
Here’s an easy way to feed your senior pet a close-to-homemade meal… that’s perfectly balanced and designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Turkey Recipe is one of 4 fresh formulas rated in our review of the complete Farmer’s Dog product line.
This Farmer’s Dog formula is human-grade and gets most of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 19% fat and 40% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Unlike brands that use computer programs to verify their nutrient content…
The Farmer’s Dog was tested using a method we consider superior to AAFCO’s own gold standard system… live feeding trials conducted on real dogs of multiple breed sizes and ages over a 6-year period.
Which makes this recipe a top pick for seniors of all breeds. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, chickpeas, carrots, broccoli, spinach Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at The Farmer's Dog"Lola has put on a lot of weight in her old age, but since switching to TFD, she’s lost 10 lbs and is playing again! It's nothing short of miraculous."
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4. Raised Right Dog Food
Raised Right Beef is one of 11 fresh recipes included in our review of the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus… especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only -
5. We Feed Raw Turkey Patties
Turkey Patties is one of 6 frozen raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.
This We Feed Raw Turkey Patties derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free, frozen raw Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
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6. JustFoodForDogs
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support received the Dog Food Advisor’s rating of 4.5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this range made by Just Food For Dogs, a company founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Shawn Buckley.
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support derives the bulk of its protein from pork, which is naturally rich in all 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 33% protein, 5% fat and 55% carbohydrates. . . with a fat to protein ratio of 15%.
This Pantry Fresh range is vet-recommended, fresh, human-grade food. They can be stored safely for up to two years (refrigeration is only required once opened).
Read our review of the full Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Pork, quinoa, kale, carrots, apples Texture Wet Type Fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
"First time in years my 11yr old JRT hasn’t had to deal with runny eyes and itchy skin!!! I can’t recommend this enough!!! "
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7. Wellness Core Senior Dog Food
If you’re searching for a low-calorie, balanced diet that’s ideal for an older dog, look no further than Wellness Core Senior. It’s one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.
Wellness Core Senior derives the lion’s share of its meat protein from fresh turkey and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 13% fat and 43% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
Core Senior is a grain-free formula boasting lots of omega-rich salmon oil, glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health… with optimal calories for weight control. A premium recipe for older dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, chicken meal, lentils, dried ground potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have 3 senior dogs and recently saw the notification from the FDA and the veterinarians at UC Davis regarding grain free diets not having enough Taurine for dogs hearts. Knowing one of my senior dogs has an enlarged heart I was very concerned. I switched from another top rated food to this one because it has added Taurine. They love the taste and have not skipped a beat as far as their palates or stools so I am very happy."
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8. Open Farm Senior Dog Food
Supporting healthy joints and mobility for aging dogs, Open Farm Senior is one of 21 dry recipes represented in our review of the Open Farm product line.
This Open Farm formula gets most of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 14% fat and 44% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
A high in protein option made with fresh ingredients. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, chicken, sweet potato, ocean whitefish meal, peas Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 34% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at OpenFarmPet.com"We have a senior dog who has a sensitive belly. His poops have been much better since we transitioned from his prescription dog food to Open Farm Senior. Whether its breakfast or dinner our senior eats it all up and doesn't even need a topping like stew...although we do sneak a little fresh chicken in there from time to time."
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9. Orijen Senior Dog Food
Looking for a grain-free formula that’s dominated with animal protein? Then, this dog food deserves serious attention. Orijen Senior is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.
Orijen Senior takes the greatest share of its meat protein from fresh chicken, turkey and fish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 17% fat and 32% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
From its beginnings, Champion Petfoods, the legendary maker of Orijen, has always advocated for a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” diet… a proven design which makes this food a top choice for seniors. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, turkey giblets (liver, heart, gizzard) Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Best food I ever fed my two greyhounds. They absolutely love it. When you have senior dogs and one of them is very finicky, you start to pull your hair out. Then you come across a food that they devour. My one greyhound has stomach issues so bad that I have to switch foods often. However, he has never eaten other foods the way he enjoys this brand. Hats off to Origen. Thank you sooooo much! Highly recommend."
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10. Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Senior Chicken and Rice
Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), a disease similar to Alzheimer’s in humans, is becoming increasingly common in older dogs. For those concerned about this serious health issue, this one-of-a-kind senior formula stands head and shoulders above any other dog food we’ve come across.
Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind product line.
This Pro Plan senior recipe sources the bulk of its animal protein from fresh chicken and poultry meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 16% fat and 43% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 48%.
In addition, Bright Mind includes glucosamine and DHA for healthy joints and prebiotic fiber to support digestion.
But what really excites us about this recipe is the fact it contains MCT, a fatty-acid derived from certain vegetable oils. Studies have shown that MCT can improve cognitive function (thinking) in older dogs… which makes it a welcome ingredient in this… or any… senior recipe.1
The thoughtful, scientific design of Pro Plan Bright Mind makes it an ideal choice for many older dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, poultry by-product meal, rice, whole grain corn, corn gluten meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I was disturbed when my vet told me my baby girl is now elderly and needed to change food. Absolutely thrilled with the change to Bright Mind! Enough energy to keep with the puppy! I saw a change in the first week and almost young pup acting after 2 weeks!"
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11. Go! Carnivore Senior Formula
With every one of its first 5 ingredients sourced from animal protein, Go! Senior makes a rare and extraordinary grain-free option for older pets. It’s one of 5 dry recipes included in our review of the Go! Solutions Carnivore product line.
This Go! Carnivore formula gets the largest part of its meat protein from multiple poultry meals and salmon meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 16% fat and 41% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
With no wheat, corn or soy and the addition of glucosamine and chondroitin to support hip and joint health, this GMO-free brand is a solid choice for your senior dog. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Go! Carnivore Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, de-boned chicken, de-boned turkey Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Recently switched my senior dog, Kuma (17 years young), to this brand and product line. AMAZING RESULTS!!! She is old, and sleeps MOST OF THE DAY, but when she is up she has a new pep in her walk, wants to play again, and is at the door waiting for me when I come home from work (been a few years since that has happened). She has a new sunny disposition since I switched to this brand."
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12. Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Senior Dog Food
Older dogs can benefit significantly from L-carnitine and the other special anti-aging ingredients found in Nulo Freestyle Senior. The product is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.
Freestyle Senior sources the bulk of its animal protein from fresh trout as well as turkey and salmon meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 13% fat and 45% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
The formula also includes L-carnitine for improved weight control as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints… making this recipe a great option for senior dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned trout, turkey meal, salmon meal, yellow peas, sweet potato Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My Newfie/Aussie senior lady is used to great-tasting food, and she absolutely adores this food! Initially, she liked the smaller kibbles dry; however, she has had a number of teeth pulled and decided she wanted it softer. Now, I add some warm water, and Moka cleans her bowl. I feel good about the ingredients and quality. I really like the bag it comes in, as it prevents a dog-food smell in Moka's "dining room" and is sturdy (i.e., no tearing)."
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13. Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Senior Dog Food
For those who value a simple, grain-inclusive formula that contains no plant-based protein boosters, Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult makes an excellent choice for older dogs. This classic senior diet is one of 16 dry recipes included in our review of the Iams ProActive Health product line.
Iams Mature Adult derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 12% fat and 54% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
ProActive Health is a time-proven, grain-inclusive brand offering several different senior recipes. Each includes L-carnitine to help your pet burn fat… which makes it easier to keep your older dog at a healthy weight. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Iams Proactive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain sorghum Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have been very pleased with Iams Mature Adult dog food. I have a mini schnauzer that is 10 years old and displaying early blindness, nausea and nervousness. She seems to be feeling much better, nausea wise, after slowly switching her to this food. She has been eating this food for 6 months now and I see a huge improvement on her energy levels. I highly recommend this food."
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14. Victor Purpose
Fortified with multiple antioxidants and an effective fat-burning supplement, Victor Senior makes a great option for an older dog. It’s one of 6 dry recipes included in our review of the Victor Purpose product line.
Victor Senior Healthy Weight derives the dominant portion of its animal protein from beef meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 13% fat and 50% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 43%.
This low-cost, reduced calorie formula is also enhanced with L-carnitine for effective weight control as well as glucosamine and chondroitin to support healthy joints. A balanced, budget-friendly option that’s ideal for your aging pet. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Victor Purpose Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef meal, whole grain brown rice, whole grain millet, grain sorghum, chicken fat Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have a Lab/golden mix and she was pushing obesity. No matter what I tried, i couldn't get the weight off of her. This food has been excellent for her! Shes lost weight and it's a bonus for her joints. Shes 7 years old now. I'm so glad we switched!"
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15. Chicken Soup for the Soul Senior Wet Dog Food
Classic Mature Paté is one of 10 wet recipes covered in our review of the Chicken Soup for the Soul wet product line.
This finely-chopped Paté senior formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 18% fat and 40% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
We like the fact this classic wet design contains no corn, wheat or soy and that it’s 100% free of artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. And the super-fine texture makes it ideal for dogs with missing teeth or dental problems.
A top wet food ideal for picky seniors. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Chicken Soup for the Soul Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, turkey broth, turkey, chicken liver Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 34% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My little senior girl really loves this brand. I love that it is pate because she doesn't have teeth and I always worry about choking."
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16. Diamond Naturals Senior Dog
Boasting an optimal balance of protein, fat and micro-nutrients, Diamond Senior makes an exceptional, low-cost option for older dogs. It’s one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
This Diamond Senior formula sources the major portion of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 12% fat and 52% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
With glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints as well as L-carnitine for weight control, this makes an affordable option from a safety-conscious company.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My almost 13 year old Aussie was really slowing down, not really interested in playing anymore, etc.. I've been mixing her old food with the Diamond Naturals for a couple of weeks to slowly change over and can tell a difference already! Now she wants to play in the mornings and afternoons when I get home - not for long, but c'mon, she's 13! I will be ordering this for her from now on."
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17. Canidae Grain-Free Pure Senior Formula
It’s not uncommon for an older dog to suffer from a sensitive stomach. So, for some, a limited ingredient diet like Canidae Grain-Free Pure, can offer a great solution. It’s one of 10 dry recipes included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure product line.
Canidae Pure Senior acquires the dominant share of its animal protein from fresh chicken as well as poultry meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 11% fat and 50% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 36%.
Although suitable for all seniors, Canidae Grain-Free Pure was specially formulated for dogs with food sensitivities. Because of it’s a limited ingredient design, this particular diet is free of many common canine allergens… like corn, wheat, soy or grains. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Canidae Grain Free Pure Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 31% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"It is very difficult to find a healthy senior dog food with High protein, lower fat, a good amount of omega 3/6, chrondroitin, glucosamine, calcium, and other vitamins. This is it! I fed my dog Precise Naturals and when the company owner passed away, so did the product. I had to find another good for my 12 y/o large mix breed. I’ve found it. She loves it; she’s a healthy weight, shiny soft coat, and energetic. If your hesitant, I was too, but so glad this was what I went chose for her."
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18. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Senior Wet Recipe
Senior Chicken Dinner is one of 12 wet recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo wet dog food product line.
This Blue Buffalo Homestyle wet formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 20% fat and 37% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
It’s worth noting this senior design includes both glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. And the recipe is 100% free of corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
A top wet option for older dogs, especially those with dental problems or chewing issues. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Dog Food (Wet) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 34% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My senior pup (10 years old; small 10lb terrier mix; missing teeth) LOVES this food! She gets so excited when it's breakfast or dinner time, and she hops up and down knowing she gets to eat this food. It's a nice pate blend of chicken, peas and carrots, and it doesn't smell! Sometimes wet food can smell horrible, but this seemingly has no odor at all. I highly recommend."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to switch to a senior food without making your dog sick
In this video…
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help lower your dog’s risk of getting sick when you switch your senior to a new food.
When is a dog considered a senior?
Not all dogs get grey hair around their muzzles. In fact, many are as playful as a puppy for their entire lives.
In fact…
You may have noticed that small dogs seem to age more slowly than large dogs. It’s true. A small dog can live to be as old as 20 years. But a large dog can reach maturity much sooner.
So, how do you know when your dog has entered her golden years?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association…2
“…small dogs are generally considered senior at 7 years of age. Larger breed dogs tend to have shorter life spans… and are often considered senior when they are 5 to 6 years of age.”
Of course, all dogs are different. A healthy diet, regular exercise and good dental care can help extend your dog’s middle age phase.
How old is my dog in human years?
Larger dogs age at a faster rate than smaller dogs. So, use the American Kennel Club chart below to discover your dog’s age in human years.
Do older dogs need more protein... or less?
Despite what you may have heard…
An older dog needs more protein in her diet than a younger dog. That’s because (like humans), seniors need to replace wasting muscle mass as they age.
What’s more…
A dog food rich in meat-based protein will not strain a healthy, older dog’s kidneys. However, if your dog has already been diagnosed with kidney disease, be sure to ask your vet about prescribing an appropriate diet.
Although adult dog foods can legally contain as little as 18%, all our recommended senior brands above contain at least 27% protein.
Should all older dogs eat senior food?
No. In most cases, that’s not necessary. In fact, if your older dog is healthy and eating a quality, balanced diet, there’s no reason to switch to a senior dog food.
Just be sure the food you’re currently feeding contains an above-average amount of meat-based protein and moderate calories.
What's the #1 cause of food-related illness in seniors?
Although it contributes to health issues in dogs of all ages…
Obesity is the #1 cause of chronic disease and premature death in seniors.
Extra weight means your dog’s joints have to work harder… and they may already be inflamed from arthritis, hip dysplasia or a luxated knee cap.
Unfortunately, dogs are naturally more prone to obesity as they age. According to the National Research Council of the National Academy of Science…3
“Because of decreased physical activity and slowed metabolism, older dogs need 20% fewer total calories than do middle-aged adult dogs.”
So, a low calorie food can help your dog lose or maintain her weight without feeling hungry all the time.
How much food should I feed my senior dog?
Since every animal is unique…
It’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “perfect” for each dog… and each brand.
So, start with the package’s feeding instructions… or the amount suggested by our dog food calculator. If you use the calculator, be sure to use the “senior” setting to estimate an appropriate serving size for your older dog.
Either method will work because you’re using it only as a starting point.
Then, over time…
Adjust that serving size up or down to reach and maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
How do I determine my dog's ideal weight?
Keeping your senior at ideal weight can help you significantly extend your pet’s life.
A 14-year landmark study found that…
Dogs fed to ideal body condition lived 1.8 years longer than their overweight litter mates.
That’s nearly 2 extra years of life…
Just for keeping your dog close to her ideal weight based on her Body Condition Score. This process is explained in the following short video.
Remember, every dog is different. If you’re feeding the recommended amount, but your dog is not losing weight (or if she’s always hungry), you may need to make some adjustments.
Talk to your vet if you’re unsure of your dog’s ideal weight and body condition.
What can I do to satisfy my picky eater?
One way to enhance your dog’s appetite is to add tasty “toppers” to her food. Mixing a few tablespoons of a quality canned food to your dog’s kibble can help.
Fresh, raw or cooked chicken or beef can also get your dog to drool over their meals again. Eggs are another popular appetizer… scrambled or boiled with no salt, oil or seasonings, of course.
Toppers can safely make up about 10-20% of your dog’s diet. You’ll need to be mindful of added calories and nutrients.
