The 14 Best Senior Dog Foods in 2023

This (updated) guide lists all of the best senior dog foods this year.

When our dogs enter their golden years, it’s our responsibility to find the BEST nutrition for them.

Embracing a diet that enhances their overall quality of life and extends their lifespan is crucial for our senior dogs. And while we simply adore our senior four-legged companions, it’s important to acknowledge that they’re not puppies anymore.

Vigilance is required to address their evolving nutritional requirements. If you’re in search of top-notch dog foods tailored to older dogs, you’ve come to the right page. We’ve chosen our top options based on the standards we’ve set in accordance with the 40-point inspection.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in.

The Best Senior Dog Foods

#1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food

Rating:

Top 5 Ingredients:  1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Brown Rice, 3. Barley, 4. Oatmeal, 5. Chicken Meal

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,403 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 18% | Fat (min.) 10% | Fiber (max.) 7% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

The Life Protection Formula from Blue Buffalo is my top choice for sustaining a senior dog’s well-being. It’s nutritionally balanced, specifically for older dogs, and a great choice for satisfying the needs of your puppy at heart.

Including high-quality real meat, vegetables, and fruits, it’s sure to satisfy your dog’s taste buds as well as his nutritional needs. This power-packed recipe’s balanced nutrient profile offers your dog a savory meal that helps with digestion. This formula also contains garden vegetables and wholesome grains. Not to forget the protein content and chelated minerals present in the blend, which guarantees better nutrient absorption for greater health benefits

#2. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Senior Chicken Dinner Canned Dog Food

Rating:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Broth, 3. Carrots, 4. Brown Rice, 5. Oatmeal

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,119 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 7.5% | Fat (min.) 4.5% | Fiber (max.) 2% | Moisture (max.) 78%
• Form: Wet

Dogs can become grumpier as they age. While they are transitioning, a wet food option like Blue Buffalo Homestyle Chicken Dinner can appeal to their taste buds and fulfill their nutritional needs. This one is made from real deboned chicken to support basic body functions — muscle repair, hormone production, and repairing ligaments/tissues.

Moreover, it contains veggies like carrots and peas to deliver essential minerals. Antioxidant-rich fruits like cranberries and blueberries are also added for immunity strengthening. Since older dogs are prone to joint problems, the wet food also features glucosamine and chondroitin to rebuild cartilage. It is completely free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives, making it a perfect choice for dogs of all sizes and age. 

#3. ORIJEN Senior Grain-Free Dog Food

Rating:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Turkey, 3. Whole Mackerel, 4. Whole Red Lentils, 5. Whole Pumpkin

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,630 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 38% | Fat (min.) 15% | Fiber (max.) 8% | Moisture (max.) 12%
• Form: Dry

To keep your senior dog lean and muscular, Orijen has designed this protein-rich diet that’s made from almost 85% animal ingredients. Most of the protein content comes from deboned chicken and turkey meat, both highly nutritious sources that encourage muscle nourishment and energy maintenance. The food is also coated in freeze-dried liver, giving it a fantastic taste that will leave your dog licking their bowl.

Apart from that, most of the recipe list is made up of wholesome greens, lentils, and beans. These act as sources of carbohydrates, antioxidants, and additional protein. The food also contains multiple fruits like apples, berries, and pumpkin, all of which deliver loads of vitamins and minerals that assist your dog’s aging body. 

#4. Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dog Food

Rating:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Ground Whole Grain Barley, 3. Carrot, 4. Dried Plain Beet Pulp, 5. Natural Flavor

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,435 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 10.5% | Fiber (max.) 5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

One of the main reasons to recommend Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dog Food is that it delivers almost every nutrient a senior dog could need. From protein sourced through real chicken to antioxidants, prebiotics, and more; the food ensures your dog gets all the amino acids they require to maintain muscle and stay active.

The formula also contains prebiotics that improve gut health and enhance nutrient absorption. The recipe is enriched with nutrients that support bone health and keep the joints functioning properly. Antioxidants in the food also help strengthen immunity, and fibers improve digestion.

#5. Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Whole Grain Brown Rice, 4. Whole Grain Sorghum, 5. Chicken Fat

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Large, Giant breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,457 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 22% | Fat (min.) 10% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

A large breed dog ages differently than regular breeds — they grow more susceptible to joint problems and muscle breakdown. Luckily, Nutro has developed the perfect food for such dogs. This meal contains loads of protein-rich chicken and glucosamine for joint support. For starters, it uses deboned chicken for optimal absorption of protein and helps with rapid muscle repair.

Furthermore, the recipe includes fiber-rich brown rice and sorghum for excellent digestive health and enough energy to power the bulkiest dogs. Chondroitin sulfate is also present in the formula to keep your dog’s joints in healthy condition. Dogs also get the added advantage of non-GMO ingredients and not having to consume wheat, soy, corn, and other filler ingredients.

#6. Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Senior Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Turkey, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Ground Brown Rice, 4. Carrots, 5. Spinach

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Extra Small, Small Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,478 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 25% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

Nourish your senior toy-sized pups with the wholesome Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Dog Food. It’s made from a combination of healthy grains and real meat to support your dog’s energetic spirit and muscles. Turkey is the main protein choice due to its excellent reputation with allergic dogs, while brown rice and oats are chosen due to their high digestibility. 

Joint problems are not specific to large breeds, which is why the food also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to keep them limber and active. Omega fatty acids are also included in the formula to nourish your dog’s coat and give them a youthful appearance. Lastly, fillers and artificial preservatives are eliminated from the recipe to prevent allergic reactions or indigestion. 

#7. Go! Solutions Carnivore Grain-Free Chicken + Duck Senior Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Meal, 2. De-Boned Chicken, 3. De-Boned Turkey, 4. Lentils, 5. Apples

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,756 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 32% | Fat (min.) 14% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

Diseases and finnicky eating habits can make senior dogs lose weight quickly. Luckily, the protein-rich Go! Solutions Carnivore Dog Food is here to fix that. It’s made from nearly 87% animal ingredients, most of which includes high-quality meat from chicken and trout to kickstart muscle growth. Being grain-free, the food uses lentils and chickpeas to fuel your dog and place them in a caloric surplus. 

No senior formula is complete without joint supplements. Go! Solutions features glucosamine and chondroitin from green mussels so your dog can play without aching joints and bones. It’s also enriched with taurine to promote heart health, as well as probiotics and prebiotics for digestive support.

#8. VICTOR Senior Healthy Weight Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Beef Meal, 2. Whole Grain Brown Rice, 3. Whole Grain Millet, 4. Chicken Fat, 5. Peas

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,385 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 27% | Fat (min.) 11.5% | Fiber (max.) 4.5% | Moisture (max.) 9%
• Form: Dry

It’s natural for your older dog’s activity level to fall as they show signs of aging. However, maintaining the ideal weight for your four-legged friends in his senior years shouldn’t be a problem if you have Victor Senior Healthy Weight dry dog food on hand. 

Rich in chondroitin and glucosamine, this diet supports great bone and joint health to encourage your big buddy to stay active and adventurous. It is an excellent choice for pet parents with less active adult dogs as it helps maintain weight without compromising on high-quality nutrients.

#9. Nom Nom Now

Rating:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Turkey, 2. Brown Rice, 3. Eggs, 4. Carrots, 5. Spinach

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,479 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 10% | Fat (min.) 5% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 72%
• Form: Fresh

A customized fresh food diet from Nom Nom is far superior than any other senior dog food in the market. The company allows users to select from four recipes; beef, chicken, pork, and turkey. Each of these recipes is then customized according to the age, weight, height, and activity levels of your senior dog so they receive a well-balanced, nutritious diet.

Not only that, but these meals are also home-delivered within hours of cooking to your doorstep, and can be refrigerated for later. They’re full of natural ingredients like brown rice, potatoes, carrots, peas, and fresh meat. Even though the overall cost of feeding your dog Nom Nom is higher, it’s still worth the extra benefits and long-term health of your pooch.

#10. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Senior Chicken & Sweet Potato Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Meal, 3. Turkey Meal, 4. Sweet Potatoes, 5. Garbanzo Beans

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,300 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 28% | Fat (min.) 10% | Fiber (max.) 5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

It’s quite common for older dogs to develop food sensitivities and allergies; and giving them a diet not specifically formulated for seniors could be bad for their health. To ensure your gray-muzzled pup gets the best nutrition, one that supports their gut health without causing any triggers, you can rely on this recipe to deliver. If you are looking for an option that’s gluten-free, grain-free, corn-free, soy-free, wheat-free, and also helps with sensitive digestion, this limited-ingredient diet by CANIDAE is an ideal pick.

Made from only 9 ingredients to eliminate all the possible allergens that could cause sensitivity in your dog, this recipe is crafted from the best, high-quality ingredients. As a bonus, dogs absolutely love the great taste of this kibble made from chicken, sweet potatoes, and garbanzo beans as primary ingredients.

#11. Nulo Freestyle Trout & Sweet Potato Grain-Free Senior Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Deboned Trout, 2. Turkey Meal, 3. Salmon Meal, 4. Yellow Peas, 5. Sweet Potato

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,359 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 30% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

This high-protein, grain-free recipe is formulated with nutrient-dense ingredients to support an older dog’s health. It’s an ideal diet for dogs with chicken and egg sensitivities because the protein in this formula is derived from turkey meal, deboned trout, deboned turkey, and salmon.

Also rich in natural vitamin supplements, calcium, and phosphorous, the kibble works to strengthen your dog’s skeletal structure and supports optimal immune health.

#12. Eukanuba Senior Lamb 1st Ingredient Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Lamb, 2. Brewers Rice, 3. Wheat, 4. Lamb Meal, 5. Ground Grain Sorghum

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,591 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 27% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 3.5% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

Joint issues can make senior dogs lethargic and significantly decrease their quality of life. That’s where Eukanuba Senior Lamb Dog Food comes in. Its specially enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate — both of which are responsible for repairing cartilage and keeping your dog active and adventurous even in their older years. 

The recipe also contains high-quality lamb protein to maintain muscle mass and rice to fuel your dog’s energy reserves. DHA and antioxidants are also added to keep your dog sharp and disease-free in old age. Eukanuba also provides defense against dental issues with their unique crunchier kibble design. 

#13. Nutro Wholesome Senior Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients:  1. Chicken, 2. Brewers Rice, 3. Whole Brown Rice, 4. Chicken Meal, 5. Split Peas

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,569 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 24% | Fat (min.) 12% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 10%
• Form: Dry

Your four-legged friend is going to love the flavors of this wholesome, clean-feed formula diet. This one by Nutro is a specified senior dog recipe suitable for all breeds. The nutrient-rich diet helps your dog with a number of aging complications such as memory loss and mobility issues. The nutrients are derived from a blend of high-quality ingredients to formulate a diet that supports cognitive and joint health in your senior dogs.

This diet is also suitable for dogs that develop food-related sensitivities as they grow older. Expertly formulated GMO-free ingredients and extract protein from farm-raised chicken help your senior to maintain a healthy metabolism. Rich in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, this recipe helps to keep your dog’s skin in shape and their coat shiny.

#14. Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Chicken & Rice Dog Food

Ratings:

Top 5 Ingredients:  1. Chicken, 2. Poultry By-Product Meal, 3. Brewers Rice, 4. Whole Grain Corn, 5. Whole Grain Wheat

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, Medium, Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 3,791 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 29% | Fat (min.) 14% | Fiber (max.) 3% | Moisture (max.) 12%
• Form: Dry

Keep your aging dog fun and active by giving her a diet that perfectly matches her nutritional requirements at this age. Packed with high levels of protein and other essential nutrients, this recipe has tons of amazing ingredients to help your dog feel satisfied, healthy, and happy during daily activities.

Also rich in natural prebiotic fiber, the blend is a great addition to a sensitive dog’s diet.

How to Switch Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick

Related Guide:

• List of all of the dog food guides
• The must-read dry dog food reviews
• Guide to the best raw diet

The Best Senior Dog Food — A Buyer’s Guide

Nutrition is a highly important factor that cannot be ignored across the lifespan of your beloved dog. And when it comes to feeding your senior dog, it should be as important as feeding yourself or a family member. Even when old age takes a toll on your senior’s health, you can still keep your dog happy, active, and healthy by ensuring they receive the best nutrition that will keep their immune system strong, their joints flexible, coat shiny and sleek, and their digestive system smooth.

It is, however, important to note that different breeds may hit the ‘senior’ stage at different ages and switching to a specified senior diet right away may not be appropriate. The key is to watch and observe if there are clear signs of aging before making that transition.

In this buyer’s guide, we will discuss all the important aspects related to buying the best senior dog foods to save you from getting all overwhelmed by the selection you can pick from.

Feeding Your Senior Dog a Special Diet

Decreased energy is often one of the first signs we notice in our dogs as they age. This can be a sign of a decline in the efficiency of your dog’s internal organ function, which affects your senior’s activity level and overall well-being.

Joint problems like arthritis cause discomfort and pain while moving and playing about and can contribute to your senior’s lack of desire to engage in these activities. If this is the case, then feeding them too many carbs for energy can be a mistake.

As far as the senior diet is concerned, the first thing you need to do is reduce their carbohydrates and rely more on fats to give them a highly concentrated form of energy. Older dogs are also likely to benefit if you reduce their calorie intake.

Since their movement is restricted, providing the same amount of calories as before can lead to weight gain and other health problems associated with excessive weight.

Fiber is another component that you must include in your older dog’s diet as it improves digestion, reduce sensitivities, and encourages efficient bowel movements.

As far as protein is concerned, make sure you stick to only high-quality sources. Protein plays a critical role in your dog’s health maintenance at all life stages, and this is where you need to be extra careful with the protein-based ingredients in your older, sensitive dogs.

Last but not least, a senior’s special diet should also contain chondroitin and glucosamine, as these substances work to relieve joint problems and even improve the flexibility of the joint capsule.

Common Health Problems of Older Dogs

It is quite common for your grey-muzzled partner to develop medical problems in the later stages of their lifespan. Besides seeking help from your veterinarian, you should also be mindful of these health problems, as they are clear signs of aging in dogs and also an indication that your dog needs to switch to a more specific diet to help fight these issues with the right nutrition.

Some common health issues and symptoms include:

• Skin problems and lumps
• Vision problems or blindness
• Sudden weight loss or weight gain
• Bad breath, dental problems, excessive drooling
• Memory loss
• Altered behavior/irritability
• Personality changes
• Loss of muscle mass
• Sleeping problems
• Increased thirst – indicating kidney disease
• Impaired mobility
• Osteoarthritis

Make sure you keep an eye out for these symptoms as your senior canine enters into their golden years. Providing your dog with the most suitable diet you can at the senior stage can lead to benefits in their quality of life. It is also a good time for more frequent checkups to see if the food you are giving him is making any difference to their overall well-being.

What to Look For In The Best Senior Dog Foods

Picking from the wide variety of food for your aging best friend is not easy, especially if your pet is suffering from a medical condition.

Here are a few important things to consider when choosing the best senior dog food for your dog.

Carry Out an Assessment

To know the specific dietary needs of your older paw-pal, it is important to find out about their current health condition. Seeking help from a veterinarian and getting an assessment done beforehand is extremely helpful. Your vet can give you specific advice about the nutritional requirements of your dog, depending on his current health profile.

Choose High-Quality, Rich Protein Sources

Not only should the diet you pick be rich in protein, but it should also come from high-quality protein sources. Protein serves as the most crucial macronutrient in aging dogs and can help with building a strong immune system, replacing age-damaged tissues, and even benefit if the canine has kidney problems.

Add Wholesome Grains to the Diet

Most pet parents prick their ears at the mention of the word ‘grain’. While a grain-free diet is highly recommended for pooches with digestive issues and a weaker immune system, wholesome grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal serve as phenomenal sources of amino acids that are a must for an elderly canine diet.

Steer clear of the Artificial

Whether it is the color, flavor, or preservatives, don’t be fooled by the smart marketing tactics that try to cover up these unnecessary fillers, which can be particularly harmful to your older dog. Always read the labels and beware of anything that’s artificially synthesized.

What To Avoid In Senior Dog Foods?

Amongst all dog foods available in the market, some are just straight-up low-quality formulas that can ruin your dog’s health. Here’s what you need to look for to avoid such dog foods:

• BHT and BHA: Both BHT and BHA have known carcinogens and should be avoided at all costs. They’re typically used for preserving fats and can be found near fat-related ingredients in the recipe list.
  
• Meat by-products: By-products consist of all the waste or non-meat portions left from an animal. Since these have little protein in them, we advise you to avoid dog foods that primarily contain meat by-products and choose formulas that use real meat or meat meals.
  
• MSG: Monosodium Glutamate is normally used as a taste enhancer in different foods. But sometimes, it can trigger a dangerous allergic reaction in both humans and dogs. That’s why we recommend that you avoid any dog food with MSG in its ingredient list.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what age does my dog enter his senior life stage?

A dog’s age and longevity vary between breeds. Smaller breeds are considered a senior between ages 9 and 11, a medium-sized breed between ages 7 and 9, while a large breed dog may start showing signs of aging after hitting 6.

What are the common signs of aging in dogs?

Our dogs show the signs of aging much like we do. Symptoms such as a decline in physical condition, dropped activity levels, food sensitivities, digestive problems, inefficient organ function, a decline in mental and sensory function, and a weakening immune response.

How many calories should I feed my senior dog?

The caloric requirements of a dog changes through the different life stages, increasing when the dog is growing up and becoming more active, and decreasing as they become less active during senior years. For a senior dog of an average weight, the recommended calories fall between 800 and 1000 calories keeping the size of their breed in mind. This will vary if your dog is overweight or underweight.

How’s do the nutritional requirement of senior dogs different from adult dogs?

Aging brings reduced activity and organ efficiency in senior dogs. Digesting high-calorie meals becomes challenging, potentially causing weight gain due to lowered activity levels. Tailored senior dog food addresses these changes with improved nutrient balance, higher digestibility, added joint support, easier-to-chew textures, and enriched with triglycerides, antioxidants, and essential omega fatty acids. These elements collectively foster better health during your dog’s senior years.

Does my senior dog need more protein?

Absolutely. Senior dogs need protein like younger ones, as aging can cause muscle loss. Choose a protein-rich diet to counter this, aiding mobility. Aiming for around 75g of protein per 1000 calories is ideal. Adjust for overweight seniors with lower protein intake.

Is it necessary to switch to a senior dog’s diet once my pooch starts showing signs of aging?

For dogs, their dietary needs start to change as they get older, and it is important to switch to dog food that’s specifically designed for seniors to meet their unique nutritional requirements. Making the switch in time can put you at peace, knowing that your dog is getting the best diet in this crucial stage of life.

What’s the best way to transition to a senior food diet?

The key is to make the transition slowly. This is the same approach that you must take while making any food switches in your dog’s diet. Replace ¼ of their current food with the new one. Gradually increase the amount until your dog becomes completely comfortable with the new recipe.

How do I determine if the food I have picked is suitable for senior dogs?

Every dog is different and may react to the new formula differently. You may pick the best food options available for senior dogs, but there is still a possibility that your dog isn’t comfortable with the new formula. The key is to observe if the new diet is having a positive impact on the deteriorating health of your dog. If the aging symptoms continue, consider switching to another brand. If you’re unsure, please consult with your veterinarian.

What should I look for in a complete and balanced senior dog’s diet?

The glucose metabolism of your aging dog changes with time. This can affect attention, memory, and trainability. When choosing the right dog food that’s both complete and balanced for your senior buddy, look for an option that has high levels of protein and lower levels of fat. Glucosamine, omega fatty acids, enhanced botanical oils, and antioxidants are essential ingredients as well.

Can I feed regular adult dog food to my senior dog?

If your adult dog’s food has the appropriate nutritional balance as recommended for senior dogs, you can continue to feed the regular adult dog food to your older dog. It is also important to check the ingredients in the recipe to ensure it does not include allergens that could be detrimental to your dog’s health.

Should I eliminate carbohydrates completely from my senior dog’s diet?

No, carbohydrates should be a part of your aging pet’s diet but it is important to understand that not all carbs are created equal. Older dogs may find it difficult to digest cereal grains such as corn, wheat, and barley, which can also cause intestinal gas, allergies, flatulence, vomiting, and diarrhea. When it comes to feeding your dog carbs, stick to high-quality whole grains that contain complete grain kernel. Examples include buckwheat, quinoa, whole wheat, brown rice, and oatmeal.

What are the benefits of feeding my pooch a senior dog diet?

Specifically formulated senior dog foods are lower in calories and rich in balanced nutrition to create a feeling of satiation. Such recipes are also low in fat content to avoid causing weight gain. This keeps your dog healthier and happier.

How is regular dog food different from senior dog food?

The difference in calorie content, ingredients, and nutrient profiles is what makes regular dog food different from senior dog food. This is the main reason why switching to a special senior diet once your dog becomes a senior is highly recommended.

What should I feed my overweight senior dog?

Choose a calorie-control formula without compromising on the nutrition. You cannot deny the fact that your aging dog needs a certain amount of nutrition for health maintenance. Fortunately, you can find some options in the market that claim to help with the weight management of senior dogs. Compare your options. Also, control the portion size you are feeding your dog. Eliminate all the excess food and treats and stick to a routine meal with controlled calories.

Related: Best Dog Foods for Weight Loss

What are the common health problems that my dog is likely going to face at a senior life stage?

While this varies from breed to breed, some common health problems that you might witness in your aging dogs may include gum disease, arthritis, diabetes, sudden weight loss, blindness, dementia, kidney disease, and in the worst case, cancer.

What do I feed my skinny senior dog?

Nourish your lean senior dog with a nutrient-rich, calorie-dense diet without hesitation. Yet, exercise caution with calorie intake, considering the decrease in daily activity typical of older dogs. Overfeeding can lead to dangerous weight gain or obesity, particularly in this life stage, which should be avoided.

Does my senior dog need exercise and activities?

Indeed! The decline in health and other joint-related problems can lead to a decline in the activity level of your dog. They may not be as playful and hyper as they were when you first had them. But it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t encourage your senior dog to play and exercise. Pay special attention to their physical well-being and invest some time and effort to ensure your good girl stays active.

Does breed matter in adjusting the nutrition for senior dogs?

Some of the best senior dog foods in the market are suitable for small, medium, and large breeds, making it an easier choice, especially if you have several dogs of different breeds. You can also adjust the nutrition based on the portion size by adjusting it to the size of their breed and feeding the recommended amount of calories to maintain a healthy weight.

Can I offer puppy food to my senior dog?

While the nutrient profile of puppy food and senior dog food can be similar – since dogs in both life stages require a high level of nutrition – the calorie content in puppy food is very high and, therefore, not suitable for senior dogs. Feeding such a calorie-dense recipe for your big dog can lead to weight problems.

Choosing Nothing But The Best

To ensure that your dog’s living his best life even at an older age, providing him with the best diet is essential. In an effort to help you narrow down your options and make a wise decision, we have listed and reviewed the 14 best senior dog foods in this article.

With a maximum customer approval rating and the best-sourced protein, I believe these options are great for providing your big guy with the nutrition they need to keep that tail wagging and maintain excellent health.

References & Resources:

• Senior Dogs: Caring & Tips
• Senior Dog Food: Meeting Aging Canines’ Nutritional Needs
• Tips for Caring for Senior Dogs