Looking for the best senior dog foods? You have come to the right place. Dogs hit the senior mark at different ages depending on their breed type. Their youth dwindles and they begin to experience changes in their bodies.
Metabolism, mobility, activity reduces whereas hearing and eyesight may not be as good as were at the puppy and adult years. However, growing old does not mean dogs cannot spend their golden years in perfect health and happiness.
A balanced diet is a key contributor to achieve this. It is, therefore, necessary to switch to the best senior dog foods for this life stage. With a large pool of brands to choose from, here is a list of the best senior dog foods to help you pick the best for your friend.
#1) CANIDAE All- Life Stages Dry Dog Food
Five dry dog foods make up the Canidae All-life stages formula. These recipes draw significant protein content from real meat or fish. Choosing food with good protein content guarantees your pet access to essential amino acids for healthy skin, muscles, tendons, cartilage and ligaments.
To complement this, there are plant-based proteins used in the foods that promote smooth digestion and keeping the risk of contracting diseases low. When combined, plant and animal protein sources can meet your dog’s protein and amino acid level requirements.
The considerable amount of fiber ingredients in this recipe helps eliminate chances of constipation which can be an issue in senior dogs. As one of the best senior dog foods, this food also strikes a proper balance between vitamins and minerals that are good for healthy skin, bones and vision. If you are a parent to several pups that are in different life stages, this is just the package you need to grab.
What we Like
- Available in different recipes
- Rich in protein content for healthy muscle building and repair
- Soluble fiber to ease the digestive process
- Easy to absorb minerals for optimal functioning of skin, bones and eyes
#2) AvoDerm Advanced Senior Dog Food
As one of the best senior dog foods, AvoDerm is specially put together for older dogs and looks to keep them in the right state of health as they enjoy this season of their life.
A great source of protein, correct amounts of fats, and optimal concentration of minerals are some of the benefits of choosing lamb and chicken formulas. Your buddy will munch this food down to its last kibble courtesy of the yummy taste of lamb.
AvoDerm Advanced Senior Health senior dog food is a welcome relief to dogs that suffer skin complications like itchiness as it uses avocados, a rich source of Omega acids.
Avocados also contain oils that keep skin elastic and healthy as is required. Chicken meal, an ingredient in the food, is a natural glucosamine source that maintains cartilage tissue and healthy joints that ensure the mobility of your senior fog.
It is also considered lean meat therefore good for weight management, boosts energy and amino acid levels brought in by other ingredients. Free from byproduct meals, corn, wheat, or soy this formula is among the best senior dog foods to choose from.
What we Like
- Natural source of glucosamine for healthy joints of geriatric dogs
- Lean meat with a low-calorie count
- Rich in natural oils and amino acids from avocados for shiny lustrous skin and coat
- High-quality meat proteins used as the first ingredient
#3) Instinct Raw Boost Senior Dog Food
Your once vibrant and buoyant puppy is now advanced in years but still requires the same love and affection received all through the years. Ensuring they are well-fed is one such way of showering them with love and Instinct Raw Boost Senior Dog Dry Food is here to assist you with that. With a good rating in the market, it is one of the best senior dog foods available for older pups.
This one-of-a-kind formula gets its share of proteins from animal sources such as chicken. There are no controversial ingredients only great nutrition to support lean muscle build-up, healthy metabolism and strong joints.
Among other ingredients, this dog food has potassium chloride which works to ensure nerves and muscle functions, vitamin C that metabolizes carbohydrates, proteins and fats.
Riboflavin supplement, a form of vitamin B works to release energy from food consumed to keep your senior dog fueled. Just as members of one body, all the ingredients in this dog food work together to deliver the best nutrition for your dog.
What we Like
- Formulated for senior dogs
- Uses protein as the primary ingredient
- Well-balanced nutrient profile for all-round health
- Made with trusted ingredients free from artificial additions
#4) Wellness Complete Health Senior Dog Food
As a leading producer of one of the best senior dog foods, Wellness Pet Foods are crafted to look out for the well-being of your dog. Treat your canine to this delicacy that derives its lion’s share of protein from deboned chicken.
Chicken delivers a taste that appeals even to picky eaters. This is also a low-salt dog food that helps keep cardiac functionality at its best. The ingredients used are free of artificial preservatives. Mixed tocopherols, a type of vitamin E, are drawn from fresh fruits and veggies and they act as natural preservatives.
The nutrients are drawn from various natural sources to bring a perfectly balanced diet for the senior dog. Ground barley, for instance, is high in fiber, low in cholesterol and a source of energy as it a carbohydrate.
Garlic powder which is low in cholesterol is sifted in and its continued presence in your dog’s food will be a bonus to his skin health. This is because over time it builds up and enters the oils in his coat and doubles up like a flea and tick repellant.
From deboned chicken, you not only get chondroitin and glucosamine to soothe the dog’s joints but also calcium for strong teeth, heart and healthy brain. Manganese is present in the food to boost the calcium content for the maintenance of bones and cartilage.
In the kibble, your dog gets a potassium-rich meal that is important for the liver and kidney organs. It also works with calcium for strengthened neural function. Blueberries make up some of the low-calorie fiber-rich fruits used. Vitamin C, K and antioxidants from the fruits are very beneficial as well. Treat your sidekick to this dog food and watch his health flourish as the days go by.
What we Like
- All-natural dry dog food
- Contains healthy wholesome grains
- Low salt diet beneficial to cardiac health
- Free from genetically modified products, meat byproducts and artificial fillers
#5) Blue Buffalo Homestyle Canned Senior Dog Food
If your canine buddy shows a preference for wet food then Blue Buffalo Homestyle Canned Dog Food is the way to go. It is a good alternative to dry dog food and will leave your pup well-nourished and thrilled for the day’s activities. The delicious succulent chunks in the can are derived from either real meat, poultry, or fish all of which are rich origins of protein.
Potatoes bring in modest amounts of carbohydrates and are easy to digest. Vitamins, minerals and fiber ranging from vitamin B12, copper amino acid chelate and brown rice are carefully blended to deliver healthy nutrition for senior dogs.
The formulation in this food is well-balanced and furnishes your pooch with the required nutrients. Look no further for the best senior dog food for your elderly pup.
What we Like
- Suitable for picky eaters
- Goes well with Blue Buffalo dry dog foods
- Fortified with minerals and vitamins for healthy nutrition
- Contains protein-rich chunks dipped in tasty nutritious gravy
#6) Diamond Naturals Senior Dog Food
Diamond Naturals formulas are crafted in a safety-conscious environment to deliver quality food for your dog and are among the top sellers in the best senior dog foods category.
This particular formula boasts of its K9 proprietary probiotic that aids digestion reduces allergic reactions to food and generally boosts the immune system. Protein is sourced from chicken, chicken meal and eggs that supply your dog with energy and amino acids for beautiful healthy skin.
Whole-grain brown rice, the easy-to-digest carb also boosts these energy levels. Glucosamine, L-Carnitine and taurine are combined in the meal to ensure the healthy functioning of bones, joints and the heart.
Fruits like oranges and papaya have been used in the formula for their high fiber content that smoothens the digestive process, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium quantities that boost immunity.
Oranges are also low in sodium which is a bonus to the health of your senior dog. Kale and spinach are some of the leafy greens thrown into the formula that enhance vision, detoxify the body and help ward off possible infections and disease.
What we Like
- Real Chicken as the primary protein source
- Contains proprietary K9 probiotic that supports digestion
- Fresh fruits and vegetables to boost immunity
- Rich in glucosamine, taurine and L-Carnitine for a healthy heart, bones and joints
#7) Nutro Ultra Senior Dog Food
Pouring this flavorful food into your dog’s feeding bowl will see to it that he receives nourishment from an array of nutrient-rich ingredients. Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food provides protein from either chicken, lamb, or salmon.
All three are great for lean muscle formation and healthy weight management. Chicken has an abundant supply of Omega 6 that promotes healthy skin. It also releases glucosamine for good bone health.
Lamb has a sufficient amount of dietary fat, is good for dogs with allergies and has a great taste that makes it palatable even to choosy eaters. Salmon has EPA and DHA, Omega 3 fatty acids, that have anti-inflammatory properties, reduce joint issues and promote healthy cognitive functioning. Salmon also produces collagen that is good for the digestive tract.
Carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals from this blend of ingredients bring that all-around diet approach for your aging dog. This dog food has been processed with the elimination of wheat, corn, soy and artificial additions.
It is suitable for all breed sizes. With a comfortable 4 out of 5 stars on various pet food websites, make the twilight years of your buddy count by choosing this dog food for him.
What we Like
- Uses lean animal proteins to meet energy and lean muscle formation requirements
- Uses naturally sourced ingredients
- Provides a well-balanced diet
- Free of artificial additions and byproducts
#8) Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Dog Food
The next product on our best senior dog food recommendation list is this formula from Blue Buffalo. Like in the majority of senior dog foods, protein is the primary ingredient sourced from real meat.
Brown rice and oatmeal feature in this food to supply energy for the body and are good for dogs that suffer from a sensitive gut. Used in the formulation is turmeric which aids digestion by breaking down dietary fats, is a great antioxidant and deals with any pains associated with joints.
Fish oil and dried kelp on the other hand nourish your pet’s skin by reducing flakiness, itchiness and any allergies that may come about thereby promoting a silky coat all year round.
Dried kelp is also known to boost iodine levels in the dog’s body which translates to healthy thyroid function. These are among the many ingredients that your dog will benefit from through the consumption of this food. Blue Buffalo also prides itself in LifeSource Bits, a unique blend of nutrients that are enhanced by rich antioxidants for optimal nutrition.
What we Like
- Made with easily digestible ingredients
- Suitable for all breed sizes
- Good for joints and skin health
- LifeSource Bits that are antioxidant-rich for optimal health and nutrition
#9) Orijen Senior Dog Food
Dogs tend to have a natural carnivorous bias that craves a taste of fresh meat now and then. Orijen Senior Dry Dog Food acknowledges this fact and works to deliver satisfaction for this craving while maintaining high-quality nutrition.
Their packages contain fresh or raw meats ranging from chicken, turkey, eggs and fish. These meats teem with a protein content that promotes the formation and maintenance of healthy muscles. Being lean meat sources they also ensure healthy body weight.
As one of the best senior dog foods, this grain-free dog food incorporates among other ingredients turnip greens that help stimulate kidney function, metabolism and a healthy nervous system.
Your dog will also benefit from fresh fruits and vegetables abundant in vitamins and minerals supply. Rosehips also used as an ingredient equip your dog’s body with inflammation-fighting antioxidants. Every other ingredient in this food is specifically picked and molded into a well-balanced diet which is what your senior dog needs.
What we Like
- Contains fresh raw real meat from animal sources
- Lean meats are used to maintain healthy body weight
- Grain-Free dog food
- Good for healthy kidney and nervous system functionality
#10) Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Senior Dog Food
No matter how old your dog gets, it will always be a cute puppy in your eyes. Help them retain their youthfulness by gifting them a diet from the best senior dog food you can get.
With this Nulo Freestyle recipe, you will get all that and more. As one of the best senior dog foods, this dog food offers tasty animal meat treat brimming with protein to keep your pooch fueled throughout the day.
Glucosamine and chondroitin which are the building blocks of cartilage are present in this food and are beneficial to the bone and joint structure in your pet’s body. Your dog friend gets L-carnitine that is a key player in metabolism that focuses on promoting healthy body weight, improved liver and brain health.
A boosted metabolism process also delivers required energy levels that keep his muscle mass in good condition and he can retain his ability to perform tasks and engage in daily activities like the training routine.
If you are looking for a grain-free diet that gives quality nutrition then Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Senior Dog Food should be top on your list.
What we Like
- Grain-Free dog food that is good for dogs with gastrointestinal issues
- Supports healthy joint and bone structure
- L-carnitine that helps keep your dog by supporting a healthy metabolism process
- Great for liver and brain function in senior dogs
See Also
- Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Grain-free Dog Food
- Best Indoor Dog Gates
- Collapsible Dog Crates for Travel
- Best Dog Car Barriers
- Plastic Dog Crates for Large-Sized Dogs
Best Senior Dog Foods Buying Guide & FAQsv
Factors to Consider when picking the Best Senior Dog Food
Nutritional Needs
Generally, manufacturers in the pet food industry presently offer a variety of dog food formulations specially put together for the senior life stage. They mainly consist of reduced-fat and calorie amounts. This is because your dog’s metabolism rate is slower and this means energy requirements are at a low too.
There is a reduced amount of fat burned by their bodies once they reach their senior years and having them consume some foods may render them overweight and obese as they can’t burn this fat as much as they did when they were younger.
Rich fiber is also found in senior dog food recipes to improve gastrointestinal health and reduces the chances of constipation. Backed by correct levels of protein, carbohydrates and vitamins these are some of the features to look out for in dog food regarding your dog’s nutritional requirements.
Senior Dog Diet and Health Problems
Pre-existing conditions and those that emerge during your dog’s senior years should be considered before settling on any dog food. Dogs with specific conditions may require a special diet preferably one recommended by a veterinarian.
For instance, a dog with heart disease may need low-calorie senior dog food to keep his weight in check. If on the other hand, they have diabetes, you need to keep your selection focused on diets that will keep their glucose levels low.
Arthritis and joint problems are among the common problems that emerge as your dog ages and picking out the best dog food will go a long way in helping them work out these issues.
Supplements and Senior Dog Food
Good senior nutrition aims to help reduce the effects of aging on your pup. Supplements are considered an essential element for healthy aging. Go for a quality senior dog food that contains supplements that will benefit your dog.
If you want to add on to the already present supplements it is important to first consult your vet then with approval, go ahead to purchase and feed them to your dog. Alternatively, you can opt to use fruits and vegetables like blueberries and apples to top up the supplement content in the dog’s diet.
Current Food
Most dog food brands have on sale senior versions of already existing adult dog foods. This eases the transition from adult to senior dog food, you just have to purchase the senior version while staying within the same brand.
Switching from one brand to another may bring about digestive upsets and therefore sticking to the same brand will help reduce the chances of this happening.
However, if the brand lacks a senior version, go for dog foods with close similarity to the current food your dog is consuming that is about nutrients and ingredients profile. For example, if your pup is on a beef recipe look for food with beef amongst its ingredients.
Breed or Size
Available in the market are dog foods designed for specific dog sizes and breeds. Ingredients and nutrients are specifically put together with breed sizes in mind. It is recommended to go for dog food that is specialized for dog size or breed. For instance, if you have a large dog the ideal choice would be large breed senior dog food.
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Tips to Help Feed your Senior Dog
After grabbing these delicacies for your four-legged bud, here are some tips to assist you with feeding him;
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Stimulate their Sensory Organs
As time goes by the senses of dogs are not as sharp as they used to be and the dog may not be excited about meal times as he did before. Your main aim should therefore be to make the food in the bowl as irresistible as possible.
You can mix wet and dry dog food to bring in the gravy broth and wetness that could appeal to your pet. Alternatively, you can warm up their food a little to bring out the smell of the flavors used in the food. It also softens the food making it gentle on his dental.
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Keep Meal Times Interesting
You can become inventive by coming up with new ways or games during feeding times. For example, scatter feeding where you place food on different parts of the house or even outside then letting your dog fetch and eat.
By following this trail, he will not only be staying nourished, but it also helps him stay active which reduces boredom and is good for the brain. You could also hand feed your dog.
This method is beneficial especially to dogs that love to eat fast and goes a long way in helping dogs that are overweight lose some pounds. It serves as a good opportunity to bond with your dog as well. Alternating these feeding methods or ideas that you have will have your dog always looking forward to mealtimes.
See Also: Homemade Dog Food for Senior Dogs
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Pay Attention
Perhaps your furry friend is struggling to reach his food because age is catching up with him. If you are observant or attentive you will notice this and act to assist accordingly.
For instance in this case you can get your dog an elevated feeding bowl or even custom raise it for him at a height that is comfortable for his back. Observing his feeding patterns might let you know the particular times of the day he enjoys eating and resort to feeding him then.
The current food may not be appealing to them anymore and you try a change. Loving your dog child means that you should pay keen attention to his behavior and needs.
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Increase Activity Levels
Just because your dog is getting older does not mean he cannot still participate in activities. You can still take them out for walks, runs, or even short swims. Care should only be taken not to overwhelm the body. These activities stimulate appetite and are good for mental stimulation.
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Cheer Him on!
This works especially with picky eaters. Dogs love to please their owners and cheering them on will encourage eating. Your dog will happily gobble up his food because he knows it makes you happy.
Related Post: Best Dog Food for Boxers
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Senior Dog Foods
Q: Why is a Special Diet Really Necessary for Senior Dogs?
Caring for the senior dog is almost like caring for a puppy with both stages being equally important. However, unlike laying a good foundation like in the puppy stage, you are now working towards keeping away any threats from it.
It is therefore important to go for dog foods that are specially formulated for senior dogs that are made to keep them strong and healthy for as long as possible.
Q: At What Age Should I Switch to Senior Dog Food?
It majorly depends on your dog’s breed, genetic makeup and state of health. Most dogs are considered to be seniors from age seven and above. Switching him to a senior diet helps to keep up with his changing body needs as he ages.
However, if you are not sure whether to start off or not on the senior dog food you can consult with your vet for proper guidance on how and when to make the switch.
Q: What are Some of the Physical Signs that My Dog Has Hit the Senior Stage?
This process happens gradually and you begin to notice him experiencing difficulty in areas he once thrived in. Activity slows down and you may notice that the dog has put on weight. If the pup is bumping into objects it may be an indicator of deteriorating vision which is also a common occurrence in the senior life stage.
Degradation of joints may cause pain or stiffness and your pet could be showing difficulty in moving from one point to another. There is also a loss of senses and the list continues but these are the most noticeable signs that mark the onset of old age in dogs.
Conclusion
They brought us joy during their youthful years and if continually well-fed dogs at the senior stage continue to bring their warmth into our lives. This review reflects what you will come across in the market and we hope it helps you make an informed decision when purchasing the best food for your doggie.