Senior Dog Food
When should I switch my dog to senior food?
Senior dogs have a number of specific nutritional requirements. Their bodies are likely to lose muscle mass. Aging often causes dogs to become less active, which can lead to obesity. Senior dogs are also known to experience a decline in kidney function, immune function, metabolism, and more.
Pet parents often wonder when they should start feeding their dog senior food. The age at which a dog is considered a “senior” depends upon his or her breed. Life expectancy can vary greatly from one breed to the next - for example, a Maltese, a small breed dog, would have a higher life expectancy than a Rottweiler, which is a large breed dog. If you have a giant breed dog, you may want to consider switching to a senior diet around the age of 5. Average dogs are considered seniors around age 7 or 8. If you notice any signs of aging, such as weight gain or reluctance to exercise, be sure to talk to your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. Your vet will be able to confirm whether or not it’s a good time to switch to a lower-calorie senior dog food formula.
What are the advantages of senior dog food?
Older dogs need senior food because it is formulated to meet their nutritional needs. However, certain dogs may have health conditions that make them a poor candidate for the nutrients in senior dog food. That’s why it’s important to speak to your veterinarian before making the switch.
For the average, healthy senior dog, the best food will be one that offers lower calories, adequate protein and fat, and a high fiber content. Senior formulas also provide the vitamins your dog needs to thrive at his or her advanced age. The nutrient makeup of senior dog food will vary from one brand and formula to the next, but these are the common characteristics among most of the options available today. Certain senior dog foods are also easier for your dog to chew, which can be helpful for dogs with fewer teeth or for the “lazy chewer.” Senior food can make a dramatic difference in your geriatric dog’s overall health.
What are the best senior dog foods on the market?
Blue Buffalo is one of the best-loved names in pet food. Their Life Protection Formula is a dry food that comes in a delightful chicken and brown rice flavor, and it’s targeted to meet the needs of your senior dog. Allivet also carries two senior dog food options from their Wilderness line - a grain-free chicken dry food recipe, or a grain-free turkey and chicken grill flavor, which comes in a wet formula. Wet foods are a great choice for geriatric dogs because they’re soft and easy to eat. They also tend to appeal more to finicky eaters.
Canidae is another best-selling pet food brand. At Allivet, you’ll find their canned Platinum Less Active formula, which comes in a lamb and fish flavor and is made specifically for overweight or senior dogs. This formula is also available in a dry variety. Another incredible Canidae product for seniors is their PURE Senior dry food. It comes in a savory real chicken, sweet pea, and garbanzo bean flavor. Each of these foods is formulated with your older pet’s nutritional needs in mind.
Nutro is yet another favorite among discerning pet parents. Allivet carries three dry foods made just for senior dogs. Opt for a product from their Essentials line, which comes in a lamb and rice flavor or a chicken, brown rice, and sweet potato flavor. Another option by Nutro is their Ultra Senior dry food, which contains proteins from salmon, lamb, and chicken to satisfy your dog’s appetite.
Allivet also carries a number of other top-quality brands and foods. Try the biologically-appropriate senior formula made by Orijen, which contains fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Take a look at the Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets JM Joint Mobility dry food (available only with a prescription) if your older pup is dealing with limited mobility or joint concerns. Consider the SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity Senior formula by Purina ONE, made for dogs over the age of 7.
Allivet carries a number of nutrient-rich foods for your senior dog. With the top names in pet food and a variety of irresistible flavors, you’re sure to find the best food for your senior dog. Whether you’re wondering if your dog should eat dry food or you’d like to offer wet food to whet his or her appetite, there’s a perfect food for your older pet at Allivet!