Senior dogs have different dietary requirements. Veterinarians weigh in on what to look for when shopping for your canine companion.
As your dog gets older, finding the right senior dog food is an important part of keeping your stay-at-home buddy happy. We’ve previously covered the best dog food to consider, as well the best dry dog foods and even dog treats — but how do you decide what’s best for an older dog?
“Pets age at different rates than humans age,” says KT Boyle, DVM, of the Banfield Pet Hospital, noting that large breed dogs like Great Danes can be considered senior at six years old but smaller breeds like miniature poodles may not become seniors until they turn 10 years old. While age is a factor, Boyle suggests keeping an eye on your dog’s energy level, whether or not they have white hair on their face and whether you notice a blue haziness or cloudiness, known as nuclear sclerosis, in their eyes. Talk to your vet if you notice your dog slowing down or exhibiting physical changes to determine if a change in diet could help. To that end, we consulted animal experts on how to shop for senior dog food and compiled some of the best senior dog foods available now.
How to shop for senior dog food
If you’re thinking about switching your dog’s food to recipes oriented for senior dogs, Boyle suggests a slow transition to prevent upsetting your pup’s stomach. Gradually reduce the ratio of old food to new food every few days. If your dog is vomiting or has diarrhea during the switch to a new food, put in a call to your vet.
The number of calories in senior dog food is a good place to start when you’re shopping. Your dog’s metabolism may be slowing down and they may simply not need as many calories as they did when they were younger. A conversation with your vet can help determine how many daily calories your dog needs based on its breed, weight, age and levels of activity. In order to keep track of how much your pet is eating, “measure portions and limit treats to 10 percent or less of your pet’s daily intake,” Boyle recommends, adding you should look for a nutritional adequacy statement from the Association of American Food Control Officials (AAFCO) on a label of dog food. Keep inmind that while terms like “organic” are regulated, there is no specific guidance from the AAFCO about food for senior dogs.
Your dog’s health is a factor when trying to pick the right senior dog food, too. For example, an older dog may need a specialized diet if they have kidney disease, liver disease or arthritis. And while some senior foods have supplements like essential fatty acids or glucosamine for joint disease, Boyle notes that “the amount of supplement in a diet is very limited, so additional supplementation may be needed.”
Pay special attention to your dog’s coat, look for “patchy hair loss, excessive dandruff or the appearance of a dull, non-shiny, coat.” Boyle notes that “skin problems resulting from nutritional issues are generally caused by a nutritional deficiency.” This is where a chat with your vet could help determine if fatty acid supplements or a dietary change could improve your dog’s coat or skin issues.
What about wet food versus dry food?
While some dogs with dental issues may find wet food easier to eat, dry food is more convenient and doesn’t spoil easily. A call to the vet will help line up your dogs’ needs with the right food and — Boyle recommends letting your dog try both wet and dry options. “Switching from dry to wet food — or vice versa — can be more difficult if they are picky eaters,” Boyle says. “So it can be a good idea to expose pets to both types of food during their lifetime.”
What about grain-free senior dog food?
Before buying grain-free dog food, consult your veterinarian. As NBC News has reported, the FDA opened an investigation in 2018 to consider a potential connection between grain-free diets and a heart condition known as canine dilated cardiomyopathy. “Grains — when properly processed — can be nutritionally valuable and provide a source of fiber and minerals,” Boyle says.
Best dog food for senior dogs
1. Eukanuba Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food
2. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley + Rice Recipe
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe
4. Iams Proactive Health Mature Adult Chicken & Whole Grains Recipe
5. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Senior Farm-Raised Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato Recipe
6. The Farmer’s Dog
7. Royal Canin Small Aging Wet Dog Food
8. Diamond Naturals Senior Formula Dry Dog Food
9. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Stew With Beef & Vegetables
10. Nom Nom
Source: Nbc News