Senior Dog Food

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Fueling Your Dogs Golden Years with Quality Nutrition

As dogs age, they become more prone to conditions like heart and kidney disease, arthritis and obesity. Senior dogs are often less active and have a slower metabolism which means that they require fewer calories and less fat, but an easily digestible diet, to help them maintain good body condition.

Foods specifically formulated for senior dogs are fortified with key ingredients to support ageing joints, controlled sodium levels to maintain heart and kidney health, added omega fatty acids and vitamins to boost the immune system and support the joints, and higher quality ingredients to help with digestibility and palatability.

What type of food should I choose for my senior dog?

Foods for senior dogs come in a range of complete and balanced options, and the specific choice should be made with your dog's individual needs and preferences in mind. If your dog has underlying health conditions, it's important to consult your vet about the best diet for your dog.

Pet Circle stock a range of top brands which cater for different requirements and tastes, including:

Senior wet foods - wet foods are a popular choice, as they are softer and easier to chew for senior dogs who might have more difficulty chewing due to dental problems or muscle loss around their jaws. Wet food also tends to be more palatable, which can help to entice dogs with poor appetites.

Sensitive stomach diets - senior dogs can be more prone to digestive upset due to their slowing metabolism and digestive processes. Diets specifically formulated for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs can help to reduce digestive upset and help maintain good quality of life as your dog ages.

Joint support diets - arthritis is a common condition in senior dogs, and joint support diets can help to reduce joint pain, and improve mobility and quality of life.

Weight control diets - with their slowing metabolism and reducing activity levels as they age, our senior dogs can be more prone to weight gain. Whilst not specifically designed for senior dogs, weight control diets can help to reduce the health risks associated with obesity.

Find out more in our vet recommended list of the best senior dog food?.

Is wet or dry food better for senior dogs?

There are pros to both wet and dry dog foods, and the choice will depend on individual needs and preferences. Wet foods are highly beneficial for improving hydration and supporting kidney and urinary health, and as they are generally tastier than dry foods, they can help to entice senior dogs to eat.

Dry foods are more convenient and tend to be more cost effective, and can have benefits for dental health. For pets particularly prone to dental conditions, there are special dental diets for maximum effectiveness.

How do I know if my dog is 'senior'?

Large breed dogs over 25kg are classified as 'mature' at 5 years of age, and 'senior' at 8. In contrast, small breed dogs under 10kg are mature at 8, and senior at 12. Find out more about Senior Dog Care for more information and health care tips as your dog ages.

Author info: Dr Gillian Hill Pet Circle Inhouse Veterinarian.

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Fueling Your Dogs Golden Years with Quality Nutrition

What type of food should I choose for my senior dog?

Is wet or dry food better for senior dogs?

How do I know if my dog is 'senior'?

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Senior Dog Food

Fueling Your Dogs Golden Years with Quality Nutrition

What type of food should I choose for my senior dog?

Is wet or dry food better for senior dogs?

How do I know if my dog is 'senior'?

Save up to 5% on selected brands^*
Learn More