His muzzle is greyer than before, and his gait is a bit slower than it once was not long ago. Otherwise, he remains the faithful companion he has always been, but you are beginning to realize that he is getting up there in years. Is there more you can do to help him age comfortably and with dignity? Definitely!
Feeding your older dog correctly is the most important thing you can do for your senior pooch. As dogs age, their calorie and nutrient requirements change, much like ours do. With the wide variety of healthful senior diets available, it makes sense to give your beloved canine every feasible advantage to allow them to live the longest, healthiest, and happiest life possible.
At what point a dog becomes a senior depends on their size. Small breeds are considered seniors around nine years old, medium and large breeds at seven years old, and giant breeds at five years old. Old age is not just about the physical age of the dog; it encompasses many different aspects of the aging process. Some breeds, like the medium-sized Bulldog, have a lifespan of only nine years, meaning they are considered senior dogs at around five or six years old. Dogs suffering from chronic conditions such as epilepsy, colitis, and diabetes also age more quickly, as do dogs that have experienced accidents resulting in broken bones, which can lead to accelerated arthritis.
Other indicators of advancing years include:
- More grey on the muzzle
- Inability to hold the bladder as long
- Less energy; tires more quickly
- Developing lumps and bumps
- Loss of hearing
- Increased agitation
- Getting ‘lost’ in their own yard or house
What Are Senior Diets for Dogs?
Senior diets differ from regular adult foods in several ways. Protein levels are lower, as are sodium and phosphorus levels, reducing the workload on the kidneys. This also helps to regulate blood pressure and support overall heart health. Senior food is generally more calorie-dense, allowing older dogs to eat less volume while maintaining the same or only marginally lower caloric intake. Ingredients tend to be more digestible, avoiding those that can be hard on older digestive tracts—less beef and wheat, more chicken and rice. There may also be an increase in vitamins and minerals, as older digestive systems do not process nutrients as efficiently.
Senior diets are formulated with increased palatability since dogs’ senses of smell and taste decline with age, requiring more enticing food to pique their interest. These diets also often include higher levels of specific nutrients—such as glucosamine hydrochloride for joint health. There is even a brain diet designed to assist with cognitive dysfunction and other aspects of neurological aging.
For the typical healthy older dog, a general senior diet should sufficiently slow the hands of time. Always buy the best quality food you can afford, as the quality range between brands can be staggering. However, if your dog has a previously diagnosed condition that may require or benefit from a specific type of food, consult your vet about available options that might be better suited for them. Anticipating medical conditions and feeding accordingly can significantly impact the speed and severity of any problems. For example, if you have an active eight-year-old Australian Shepherd who has participated in agility for its entire life, you can anticipate more joint wear and tear than the average Aussie would experience. Why not feed them a joint diet formulated to alleviate the symptoms associated with arthritis? Or consider the six-year-old Labrador who was hospitalized for acute renal failure after ingesting rat poison. Putting her on a kidney diet to lessen the load on her compromised kidneys will help immeasurably in the long run. Always make these changes with your veterinarian’s consent and discuss ways to combat old age in your senior dog.
How you feed your senior can also make a difference. Older dogs typically do better on smaller, more frequent meals, so breaking their food intake into three meals instead of two is a healthier choice. Some owners switch to canned food as their dog ages, worried about old teeth and kibble. Instead, try adding warm water to the kibble and letting it soak for a minute—the heat and moisture will entice your dog to eat, and the added water content is invaluable for overall health. You can also mix in a bit of canned food with their kibble if necessary; however, monitor their stool, as soft food can cause diarrhea in some dogs. Keep an eye on your dog’s weight, and rather than feeding a fixed amount each day, adjust based on their current condition. If they seem to be gaining weight, feed a little less; if they appear thin, add a few extra kibbles. Most owners don’t notice weight changes until they become significant, so use this method to maintain their ideal weight consistently instead of making drastic adjustments.
Your best friend is getting older, but the last few years can also be the best ones together. Senior dogs have a unique character and charm, making them fun and interesting companions, even if they can’t chase the Frisbee or take long walks like they used to. Enjoy these senior years together, and feed your dog right to ensure they are long and happy!