quality dog food for senior dogs

Best Dog Food For Senior Dogs

A long life is the result of good genes, good care, and good luck. While a few four-leaf clovers never hurt anyone, chances are its a little late to worry about good genes once youve welcomed a dog into your heart. That leaves good care as the one thing you can control now. And a big part of good care is good nutrition.

However, there are issues when it comes to feeding your senior dog. Neither the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nor the National Research Council have determined official dietary requirements for aging dogs. Its partly because senior dogs vary so much in their individual needs. That may explain why commercial foods for seniors vary so widely in nutrient levels.

Nobody expects you to be a nutritionist just to pick out a bag of dog food. But you should be aware of just a few important factors that apply to most senior dogs. This will help you choose the best dog food for your senior dog.

Dont Restrict Protein

This matter is widely misunderstood. Many people still believe senior dogs should eat less protein. We now know the opposite is true. Healthy seniors need more protein, not less, in order to fuel muscle. Loss of muscle mass is a major problem in older dogs. Some seniors lose so much muscle they can no longer walk unassisted.

Older dogs need about 50 percent more protein to maintain muscle mass compared to younger ones. But, diets formulated for adult maintenance diets often dont have enough protein to satisfy these needs. Veterinarian Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, recommends 28 to 32 percent protein on a dry-matter basis for healthy older dogs, especially in those cases where weight loss is needed.

Consider Calories

Younger seniors tend to be overweight. But, very old dogs tend to be underweight. A 2011 study found that calories in senior foods varied widely, ranging from 246 to 408 calories per cup. So, the same senior food may be a great choice if your dog needs to lose weight. But it may be a bad choice if they need to gain weight.

Dont forget that the time to consider calories is well before old age sets in. Two benchmark studies conducted by major dog food companies Purina and Waltham both found that restricting calories throughout life improved longevity and reduced illnesses. Essentially, good care for senior dogs starts in youth.

Feed For Organ Health

Other factors to consider are senior dog health problems such as heart and kidney disease. For both conditions, youll want a low-sodium food. But, that same 2011 study found that sodium levels in senior foods ranged from 33 to 412 mg/100 kcal. For kidney disease, youll want low phosphorous, but thats not even mentioned on any label. The 2011 study found phosphorous levels varied by threefold in the senior foods they examined, but were on average higher than their representative adult maintenance food.

Prescription diets are available for heart, kidney, and other diseases that take into account these nutritional needs. However, even those foods may have wide ranges of nutrients. Any dog food manufacturer should be able to provide these numbers to you on their website or with a simple phone call. While youre at it, ask them about the credentials of the people formulating their foods. If they cant provide either, thats clue number one that you should find another product.

Add Supplements

Some senior foods include supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin in an effort to combat osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, the evidence that these supplements actually work is limited. However, they wont hurtexcept maybe your wallet.

On the other hand, omega-3 fatty acids probably play an important role in senior diets because they may help combat both osteoarthritis and especially cognitive losses. If you are adding your own to your dogs diet, aim for the amount of EPA and DHA combined to be in the range of 700 to 1,500 mg. Build up starting at the low end and cut back if your dog has any diarrhea or vomiting.

Theres probably more to the recipe than simply EPA and DHA, however. Research conducted at Purina tested Beagles between the ages of 9.5 and 11 years of age that were fed either a standard diet or one supplemented with antioxidants, B vitamins, fish oil, and L-arginine for six months. The dogs fed this Brain Protection Blend performed significantly better on a series of mental tasks, especially the more difficult ones, compared to the dogs not receiving the blend. The tasks involved determining which one of several shallow wells contained food when the cue was a marker either next to it, near it, or displaced at an angle; or seeing how well they did on a task requiring them to discriminate right, left, and center, and then relearning which side was correct in order to receive a reward.

Make Food Palatable For Senior Dogs

There are practical aspects of feeding your dog to consider, too. Senior dogs may have dental problems that make chewing difficult or uncomfortable. These dogs should first be treated for whatever problem they have, but if that is impossible or unsuccessful, consider wetting their food or feeding them canned or soft food. Simply feeding a smaller kibble size may help if youre feeding dry food.

Senior dogs may be uncomfortable bending down to the food bowl or standing for long periods to eat. Try serving their meals on a raised platform or encourage them to eat lying down.

Very old dogs often lose their appetite. Warming the food can increase its aroma and may help stimulate the appetite; cooling it may make it less nausea-inducing in queasy dogs. At some point you may have to abandon your goal of a healthy balanced diet and just feed him whatever he will eat. The wait until hes hungry enough tactic doesnt work in seniors because their hunger mechanism may not be working correctly. Besides, its a little late to be worried about spoiling himand even if you do, doesnt he deserve it?

This column first appeared in theSeptember/October 2019 issue of AKC Family Dogmagazine.

The best senior dog food of 2024, with advice from veterinarians

What to look for in senior dog food

Our experts say the following criteria are important to consider when shopping for senior dog food:

AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for adult maintenance or all life stages: The AAFCO is a nonprofit organization that recommends nutritional profiles based on an animal's life stage. They don't approve pet foods or establish specific standards for senior dog foods. However, choosing a senior food formulated for adult maintenance or all life stages ensures the recipe fulfills the recommended protein, fat, and nutrient requirements of adult dogs. The best dog foods for senior pups will also contain beneficial extras such as glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and have fewer calories per serving than adult dog foods.

Ingredient list: Labels list ingredients by weight, so the first few ingredients generally make up the majority of the food's weight. "There are no particular ingredients that senior dogs should avoid," says Luisana. However, she recommends grain-inclusive foods over grain-free foods due to the potential link between grain-free dog foods, especially those containing peas, and dilated cardiomyopathy.

Guaranteed analysis: Rather than fixating on dog food ingredient lists, our experts say to examine the guaranteed analysis of important nutrients, including protein, fat, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Adult dog food must have a minimum of 18% protein and 5.5% fat to fulfill a dog's nutritional needs. As the AAFCO doesn't set specific standards for senior dog foods, the guaranteed analysis of these foods can vary significantly between recipes. Before selecting a food, our experts recommend asking your vet about the best food for your senior pup.

Healthy extras: The best senior dog food will contain extra ingredients that support their unique needs. For example, Freeman and Welborn highlight the potential benefits of antioxidants in supporting healthy aging. Welborn suggests a diet rich in antioxidants, such as Purina Bright Minds, if your dog experiences cognitive dysfunction. Other healthy extras for seniors include joint-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin.

Calorie content: A dog's metabolism typically slows as they age, and many seniors are less active. So, senior dog foods usually contain fewer calories than adult formulations, according to Churchill. Freeman adds that overweight senior dogs are at greater risk of weight-related conditions like arthritis and diabetes. That said, feeding your dog less food could result in a nutritional deficiency. That's why Freeman recommends switching to a low-calorie senior diet or a weight-management diet based on guidance from your vet.

Breed-size formulation: The best food for your senior pup may depend on their size. Our experts say small and large breed seniors have different health risks and may also require different calorie amounts and kibble sizes. Buying food specific to your pup's size helps ensure they get a recipe formulated for their needs.

Feeding-trial tested versus formulated foods: The best senior dog foods have been formulated and in some cases, feeding-trial tested to meet the AAFCO's nutritional standards for adult maintenance or all life stages. If your dog's food has an AAFCO label, you'll know the recipe fulfills the recommended protein, fat, and nutrient requirements for adult dogs. A label indicating feeding trials confirms the food's safety and palatability based on testing with a group of dogs.

Expert formulations: The dog food brands we recommend meet quality control standards. In other words, the brand employs a full-time board-certified veterinary nutritionist and potentially a PhD-level animal nutritionist, as recommended in the WSAVA guidelines.

Next-level ingredients: Next-level ingredients refer to those farmed or caught through humane and sustainable farming or harvesting practices. Although these ingredients may not offer extra nutrition to your pet, choosing pet food with ingredients like farmed raised meats, cage-free eggs, and sustainably caught fish helps you support a pet food company that prioritizes both animal welfare and sustainable practices.

Best Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change, and its essential to feed them the right food to keep them healthy and happy. One of the most critical aspects of senior dog nutrition is choosing the right type of food. Dry dog food is a popular choice among pet owners because its easy to store, doesnt require refrigeration, and is often more affordable than wet food.

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for senior dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, its essential to select a formula thats specifically designed for senior dogs. These formulas are typically lower in calories and fat and higher in fiber, which can help maintain a healthy weight and support digestive health.

Another critical factor to consider is the quality of the ingredients. Look for formulas that contain high-quality proteins, such as chicken, fish, or lamb, as well as whole grains and vegetables. Avoid formulas that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or by-products.

We spent hours researching and testing various dry dog food formulas to identify the best options for senior dogs. In the next section, well share our top picks and explain why we chose them.

Best Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs

As our furry friends age, their nutritional needs change. Its important to provide them with a diet that supports their aging bodies and keeps them healthy and happy. Thats why weve compiled a list of the best dry dog food options for senior dogs. Our team of experts has carefully researched and tested these products to ensure they meet our high standards for quality and nutrition. Whether your senior pup has specific dietary needs or just needs a little extra support, weve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

1. IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food

If youre looking for a dry dog food for your senior dog, we highly recommend IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food.

Pros

• Formulated with real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient to support healthy bones and joints with a balance of key nutrients for senior dogs.
• A blend of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion.
• No artificial preservatives, flavors or fillers, for complete and balanced nutrition.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Not suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or allergies.
• A bit more expensive compared to other brands

We have been using this dry dog food for our senior dog and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The real chicken as the first ingredient provides the necessary protein to keep her muscles strong and healthy. The blend of fiber and prebiotics has also helped regulate her digestion, which was a concern for us as she has had previous digestive issues.

We appreciate that IAMS has created a product specifically tailored to the needs of senior dogs, with a balance of key nutrients to support healthy bones and joints. We also like that it is complete and balanced nutrition, without any artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers.

While it may be a bit more expensive compared to other brands, we believe that the quality of the product justifies the cost. Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for your senior dog.

2. Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs

We highly recommend the Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs. This dry dog food is a great choice for senior dogs who need immune system support and digestive health.

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein, including real chicken as the number 1 ingredient
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health
• Hard kibble mixed with tender meaty pieces create a delightful experience for your dog

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the bag looks nearly identical to the regular adult food and caused confusion
• A few customers have reported that the food made their dog sick
• The price has gone up, making it less affordable for some customers

Pros

• Made with high-quality protein, including real chicken as the number 1 ingredient
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health
• Hard kibble mixed with tender meaty pieces create a delightful experience for your dog

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the bag looks nearly identical to the regular adult food and caused confusion
• A few customers have reported that the food made their dog sick
• The price has gone up, making it less affordable for some customers

We have used this dog food for our senior dog and have noticed a significant improvement in his health. The high-quality protein and probiotics in this food have helped support his immune system and digestive health. Our dog loves the taste and texture of the hard kibble mixed with tender meaty pieces.

The prebiotic fiber in this food also helps support beneficial bacteria in your dogs intestinal tract. We appreciate that this food is made in the USA and is only shipped within the US and to APO/FPO addresses.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs for senior dogs who need immune system support and digestive health.

3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 15-lb 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you want a high-quality dry dog food for your small breed senior dog, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with real chicken first and enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to help your dog thrive.
• Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support overall mobility.
• Features special small-bite kibble to promote tartar removal with chewing.

Cons

• May be more expensive than other brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Contains rice, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies.

We recently tried this dry dog food with our senior Chihuahua, and he loved it. The small-bite kibble was easy for him to chew, and we noticed an improvement in his mobility after a few weeks of eating this food. We also appreciate that Blue Buffalo uses high-quality ingredients and excludes chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

While this dry dog food is more expensive than some other brands, we believe its worth the investment for the quality ingredients and health benefits. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so its important to introduce this food gradually and monitor your dogs reaction. Additionally, this food contains rice, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain allergies.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food for small breed senior dogs who need a balanced and nutritious diet.

4. Diamond Naturals Senior Real Meat Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend purchasing Diamond Naturals Senior Real Meat Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food for your senior dog.

We have been using Diamond Naturals Senior Real Meat Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food for our senior dog and have been very satisfied with the results. Our dog has more energy and a shinier coat since we started using this product.

The quality of the ingredients used in this product is top-notch. We appreciate that Diamond Pet Foods uses only the highest quality products in their formulas and that they are manufactured in state-of-the-art facilities in the USA.

We also like that this product provides a healthy source of vitamins, proteins, fats, and carbs that are essential for our dogs overall health. We have noticed a significant improvement in our dogs energy levels since we started using this product.

However, we do want to point out that this product may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dogs diet.

In conclusion, we highly recommend Diamond Naturals Senior Real Meat Recipe Natural Dry Dog Food for your senior dog. It is a high-quality product that provides essential nutrients for your dogs health and wellbeing.

5. Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs

If youre looking for a high-quality dry food for your senior dog, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs.

Pros

• With real chicken as the first ingredient, this protein-rich diet provides the energy older dogs need to stay active
• Made with premium, natural ingredients and free from chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy
• Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and overall mobility, as well as LifeSource Bits to boost your dogs immune system

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food
• Can be more expensive than other brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

Weve been feeding our senior dog Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs for several months now, and weve noticed a significant improvement in her energy levels and overall health. The real chicken and natural ingredients provide the perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients to keep our dog feeling lively and youthful.

The addition of glucosamine and chondroitin has also helped support our dogs joint health, which is especially important as she gets older. And we love that the food contains LifeSource Bits, which provide an extra boost to our dogs immune system.

While the food is a bit more expensive than some other brands, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the noticeable improvement in our dogs health make it well worth the price. Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs to anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dry food for their senior dog.

6. Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe 22 lb. Bag Grain Free 22 Pound (Pack of 1)

If youre looking for a high-quality dog food for your senior dog, Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Real deboned chicken is always the first ingredient, which provides high-quality protein to build and maintain healthy muscle tissue and energy levels for senior dogs.
• With 77% of protein from animal sources, this healthy dog food offers the ideal combination of protein and healthy fats to help a dog maintain optimal weight and increased energy.
• This grain-free dog food is formulated with fewer calories and fat to help aging dogs maintain a healthy weight, and L-carnitine to support a healthy metabolism.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.
• This dog food is more expensive than some other brands.

Weve been using Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food for our senior dog for a few months now, and were very happy with it. Our dog loves the taste, and weve noticed that her coat is shinier and her energy levels are higher than they were before. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with whole foods and contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

One thing to note is that the kibble size is a bit larger than some other brands, so it may not be suitable for dogs with smaller mouths. Additionally, while we think the price is reasonable for the quality of the product, it may be more expensive than some other brands on the market.

Overall, if youre looking for a high-quality dog food for your senior dog, we highly recommend Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe.

7. Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula

If you want to keep your senior dog healthy, active, and happy, Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula is a great choice. It is a high protein dog food that starts with real chicken as the number 1 ingredient and supports strong muscles, including a healthy heart. The MCT-rich vegetable oil nourishes and promotes mental sharpness and showed an increased average activity level of over 20 percent in dogs seven and older.

Pros

• The dry dog food features a highly digestible formula.
• Four antioxidant sources in this Purina dog food support a strong immune system.
• Natural sources of glucosamine for dogs help support his joints.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.
• The bag may not be resealable

We have been using this Purina ONE senior dog food for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in our dogs overall health and energy levels. The kibble is crunchy and meaty, providing the taste and texture that dogs love. The natural sources of glucosamine and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals help support his shiny coat, healthy skin, and joint health.

The highly digestible formula ensures that our dog is getting all the nutrients he needs without any fillers or artificial flavors or preservatives. The four antioxidant sources in this Purina dog food support a strong immune system. We also appreciate that this dog food is made in the USA and is 100 percent complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs.

In summary, if you are looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your senior dog, Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula is definitely worth considering. It provides all the essential nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy and active, and the taste and texture will keep him coming back for more.

8. Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food

If youre looking for the best dry dog food for senior dogs, Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food is a great option. Our dog has been eating this food for a few months now and weve noticed improvements in his joint health and digestion.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real chicken, which provides high-quality protein for your dogs muscles and overall health.
• The natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin help support your dogs joint health, which is especially important as they age.
• The formula contains essential antioxidants that help support your dogs aging immune system, as well as natural fiber for healthy digestion.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so its important to monitor your dogs reaction when introducing it.
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs, so be sure to choose the appropriate size for your dogs breed and age.
• The price point may be higher than other dry dog foods, but the quality of ingredients and benefits to your dogs health make it worth the investment

Overall, we highly recommend Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food for any senior dog in need of joint support and overall health benefits.

9. Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food

If you want to give your senior dog a healthy and nutritious meal, then Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Made with non-GMO ingredients and real chicken as the #1 ingredient.
• Provides essential antioxidants for your dogs immune system.
• Supports strong bones and joints with calcium.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• A bit pricey compared to other dog foods.
• May cause digestive issues for some dogs.

We have been using Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food for our senior dog for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health. The kibble is easy for her to chew, and she seems to enjoy the taste.

One of the things we love about this dog food is that it is made with non-GMO ingredients, which gives us peace of mind knowing that our dog is getting a healthy and nutritious meal. The real chicken as the #1 ingredient also ensures that she is getting a high-quality protein source.

Another great thing about Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food is that it provides essential antioxidants for our dogs immune system. As she gets older, her immune system becomes weaker, so its important to give her the support she needs to stay healthy.

The calcium in this dog food also helps to support strong bones and joints, which is essential for senior dogs. Our dog has had joint issues in the past, so we are happy to see that this dog food is helping to keep her joints healthy.

While there are some downsides to this dog food, such as the price and the potential for digestive issues, we think the benefits outweigh the negatives. Overall, we highly recommend Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their senior dog.

10. VICTOR Purpose Senior/Healthy Weight

If youre looking for a weight management dog food that is perfect for older, less active dogs, and adult dogs that need to achieve weight loss, then VICTOR Purpose Senior/Healthy Weight is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The high-quality protein in this nutrient-dense dry dog food is derived from premium-quality beef, fish, and chicken meals.
• It contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote long-term hip and joint health.
• L-Carnitine helps in converting fat to energy for lean muscle development.

Cons

• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds.
• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• It is not eligible for international shipping.

We have been using VICTOR Purpose Senior/Healthy Weight for our older dog who needed to lose weight. We were impressed with the high-quality ingredients, including gluten-free grains, which helped in supporting lean muscle development. Our dog also had joint issues, and we noticed a significant improvement in his mobility after switching to this dog food.

The proprietary VPRO Blend of supplements, vitamins, and minerals that have been designed to help maximize the genetic potential of every dog, regardless of breed, age, or activity level, is another significant advantage of this product.

Overall, VICTOR Purpose Senior/Healthy Weight is a fantastic choice for weight management, hip and joint health, and overall well-being for senior dogs.

11. Hills Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult 7+ for Senior Dogs, Small Bites, Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe, 5 lb. Bag 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If youre looking for a dry dog food that is specifically formulated for small breed dogs age 7 and older, then Hills Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites dry dog food is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated for specific aging needs of small dogs age 7 and older
• Easy-to-digest ingredients help support energy levels and keep a healthy immune system
• Balanced minerals for heart and kidney health

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Expensive compared to other brands
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions

We recently tried Hills Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites dry dog food for our senior dog and were impressed with the results. The small kibble was perfect for our little dog, and the chicken flavor was a hit with her. We noticed an improvement in her energy levels, and she seemed to enjoy mealtime more than before.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is on the expensive side compared to other brands, but we believe its worth the investment for the quality ingredients and health benefits. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so its important to monitor their reaction and adjust accordingly.

Overall, we highly recommend Hills Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites dry dog food for small breed dogs age 7 and older. Its made with natural ingredients, provides balanced minerals for heart and kidney health, and is formulated to support the energy levels of mature dogs.

12. Hills Science Diet Senior Dog Food

We highly recommend Hills Science Diet Senior Dog Food for small-breed senior dogs. This dry dog food is specially formulated to support the aging process of small dogs, providing them with balanced minerals, omega-3s, and omega-6 fatty acids.

Pros

• Supports joint and mobility using omega-3s from fish oil
• Provides balanced minerals for heart, kidney, and bladder health
• Nourishes healthy skin and shiny coat with omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with allergies to chicken
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May be more expensive than other senior dog food brands

This dry dog food is designed to help maintain your senior dogs healthy skin and shiny coat, while also providing them with necessary antioxidants to support their immune system. The kibble is small enough for small-breed dogs to easily chew and digest.

We appreciate that Hills Science Diet Senior Dog Food is made with natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. It is also specifically formulated to support immune, joint, kidney, and heart health in senior dogs.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality senior dog food for your small-breed dog, we highly recommend giving Hills Science Diet Senior Dog Food a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for senior dogs, there are a few key features to consider to ensure that your furry friend is getting the nutrition they need to thrive in their golden years.

First and foremost, its important to look for a product that is specifically formulated for senior dogs. These types of foods are designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of aging dogs, including lower calorie counts and higher levels of joint-supporting nutrients like glucosamine and chondroitin.

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the ingredients used in the food. Look for products that list high-quality protein sources like chicken, beef, or fish as the first ingredient, and avoid foods that contain fillers like corn or wheat.

In addition to protein, senior dogs also require higher levels of certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and beta-carotene, to support their immune systems and overall health. Look for foods that contain these important nutrients in appropriate amounts.

When it comes to choosing the best dry dog food for your senior pup, it can also be helpful to consider any specific health concerns they may have, such as dental issues or digestive sensitivities. Some products may be better suited to these needs than others, so be sure to read labels carefully and consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns.

Overall, by taking the time to carefully consider your senior dogs nutritional needs and choosing a high-quality product that meets those needs, you can help ensure that your furry friend enjoys a happy, healthy, and comfortable retirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to switch to senior dog food

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. Senior dogs require a different balance of nutrients than younger dogs. Typically, it is recommended to switch to a senior dog food when your dog reaches the age of 7. However, this can vary depending on breed and individual health concerns. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best time to switch your dog to a senior dog food.

Wellness CORE Senior Dog Food

Wellness CORE Senior Dog Food is a popular choice for senior dogs. It is made with high-quality protein sources and contains a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support your dogs overall health. It is also grain-free, which can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities. However, it is important to note that every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another.

Best senior dog food for arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition in senior dogs. Look for a senior dog food that contains glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support joint health. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Dog Food and Hills Science Diet Senior Dog Food are both good options for dogs with arthritis.

Consumer Reports best senior dog food

Consumer Reports recommends Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Senior Dog Food as the best senior dog food. It contains a blend of nutrients that can help support cognitive health in senior dogs. However, it is important to note that every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another.

Chewy Senior Dog Food

Chewy Senior Dog Food is a good option for senior dogs. It is made with high-quality ingredients and contains a blend of vitamins and minerals to support your dogs overall health. It is also available in a variety of flavors, so you can find one that your dog enjoys.

Best senior dog food for weight loss

If your senior dog needs to lose weight, look for a senior dog food that is lower in calories and fat. Hills Science Diet Perfect Weight Adult 7+ Senior Dog Food is a good option for dogs who need to lose weight. It is made with high-quality protein sources and contains a blend of vitamins and minerals to support your dogs overall health. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before starting a weight loss program for your dog.