what is the best dog food for senior small dogs

By Isabella Storyclaire

last updated September 16, 2024

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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.

Top 10 Best Senior Dog Foods for Small Breeds in the UK

Rank

Brand

Key Features

Ingredients

Expert and Customer Insights

James Wellbeloved Senior Small Breed

Single source of protein, Hypoallergenic, Supports healthy digestion and joints

Turkey meat, Wholegrain rice, Chicory extracts, Sunflower oil, Cranberries and spinach

Highly rated by UK buyers, Ideal for dogs with allergies, Improves vitality, mobility, and digestion, Some concerns about premium price but overall excellent value for money

Eukanuba Grain Free Complete Dry

Grain-free, Supports skin, coat, joints, immunity, and digestion

Ocean fish, Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, Fruit and vegetables, Glucosamine and chondroitin

Glowing reviews for quality and effectiveness, Ideal for picky eaters and dogs with digestive issues, Noted improvements in coat, activity levels, and joint stiffness, Premium price justified by outstanding nutrition

Iams Complete Dry Dog Food For Senior

Supports 7 signs of healthy vitality, Tailored for aging small breed dogs

Fresh chicken, Whole grains, Fruit and vegetables, Glucosamine and omega oils

High ratings for quality and suitability, Real chicken as the first ingredient, Improves activity levels and digestion, Offers good value for money, though not as premium as some other brands

Percuro Hypoallergenic Dog Food Dry

Hypoallergenic and sustainable, Insect-based protein, Supports skin, coat, joints, and digestion

Black soldier fly larvae, Chickpeas, Sweet potato, Carrots, Spinach

Transformative for dogs with allergies, Eco-friendly and sustainable choice, Premium price, but effective for sensitive dogs, Owners report significant improvements in symptoms of intolerant dogs

Pooch & Mutt Health & Digestion

Grain-free, Supports digestive health and overall wellbeing

Salmon, Sweet potatoes, Chickpeas, Spinach, Blueberries

Praised for improving digestive issues, High-quality ingredients like fresh salmon, Suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, Higher cost balanced by savings on potential vet bills

7 Best Senior Dog Foods for Small Breeds in 2024: Reviews & Top Picks

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Learn more

When dogs age, their bodies go through changes and dont function the same as they once did. Normal bodily functions start slowing down and wearing out with time. Eventually, they feel less excited to do some of their favorite things, like going for walks or playing tug-of-war.

The best way to ensure your dog stays healthy in their old age is to feed them food made specifically for seniors. Its even more beneficial to feed them senior dog food that is specific to their breed size. Every dog requires a specific set of nutrients that is best for their age and body type. If youre ready to make the transition to old age easier for your pup, then check out this list of senior dog foods for small breeds complete with in-depth reviews.

A Quick Look at Our Favorites in 2024

The 7 Best Senior Dog Foods for Small Breeds

1. Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food Subscription Best Overall

Crude Protein:	710%
Crude Fat:	46%
Crude Fiber:	12%

Nom Nom takes the best overall choice of senior dog food for small breeds because it is based on fresh and human-quality ingredients. These nutritious and healthy meals come in a variety of recipes. Nom Nom is committed to making healthy meals for dogs of all ages considering the breed, size, weight, age, and level of activity of each dog. Most of these fresh recipes have between 7% and 10% protein content, and 7277% moisture to keep healthy hydration levels. The recipes are based on real meat protein sources such as turkey, chicken, pork, and beef mixed with healthy vegetables like carrots, peas, and spinach for fiber and micronutrients. The food is conveniently portioned and individually packaged into single servings.

We recommend trying the variety pack that they offer with no subscription necessary, this allows you and your dog to choose your favorite one! For sure, your dog will absolutely love it, and they offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on their recipes! If you dont see a noticeable change in your pet, youll get your money back.

This food is subscription-based and conveniently delivered to your doorstep! And while it is more expensive than most commercially available dog food brands out there, it is worth every penny!

Pros

Fresh ingredients
High-quality protein from real meat
Tailored for your dog
Delivered at your doorstep

Cons

Might not be available in your area

2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dog Food Budget Buy

Crude Protein:	18%
Crude Fat:	10%
Crude Fiber:	7%

Blue Buffalo is one of the most trusted brands on the dog food market. It doesnt only produce foods for senior dogs but is committed to making healthy meals for animals of all ages. This Life Protection Formula recipe from Blue Buffalo is free from grains and focused on balancing the right vitamins and minerals for your pet. It is one of our favorite choices of senior dog food for small breeds because of the superior ingredients. One of the first listed is real chicken, but it also contains healthy fruits and veggies. The protein is of high quality, and the recipe uses L-carnitine to support joint health and maintain muscle mass.

This food is certainly more expensive than some other brands out there but a great brand for all senior dogs.

Pros

Real meat
High-quality protein
Supports joints and muscles
No grains

3. NULO Freestyle Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Crude Protein:	30%
Crude Fat:	12%
Crude Fiber:	5%

Nulo is higher in price point, but the Freestyle Senior Grain-Free dog food is an exceptional option to give to your small breed senior pooch. The recipe uses excellent sources of trout and other animal protein to help maintain muscle development, plus the formula is also grain-free with added probiotics for digestion. The recipe is free from chicken or eggs since many senior dogs can have allergic reactions to it. Nulo focuses on your dog and keeping them at their best as they age, and many customers also report that theyve noticed a big difference in joint pain in their dogs after switching to this food.

Pros

Helps joint pain
High-quality protein sources
Chicken and egg-free
Grain-free

4. Nutro Natural Choice Senior Dry Dog Food

Crude Protein:	24%
Crude Fat:	12%
Crude Fiber:	4%

Nutro has more than one recipe for senior dogs, and this Natural Choice Senior recipe puts real chicken right at the top of the ingredient list. The dry food is full of healthy essential fatty acids to keep their coats and skin healthy as they age. The recipe is also enriched with vitamin E and antioxidants to keep your dogs immune system fully functioning properly well into old age.

There are some reports of dogs having some issues with digesting this food, and it may cause nausea or diarrhea in some pooches.

Pros

Healthy omega fatty acids
Boosts immune system
Real chicken protein

Cons

May cause digestive issues in some dogs

5. Wellness Complete Health Senior Dry Dog Food

Crude Protein:	22%
Crude Fat:	10%
Crude Fiber:	4.25%

Wellness Complete Health Senior dry dog food uses fresh ingredients that are cooked in small batches to preserve nutrients. Some of the top ingredients are deboned chicken for a great source of animal protein, as well as barley and oatmeal to aid digestion. There are also additives like essential omega fatty acids to help with senior hip and joint mobility, plus taurine for heart health.

While there are some great ingredients, there are also some complaints about the addition of pea to the formula. However, the kibble is too hard for some senior dogs.

Pros

Fresh ingredients
Supports heart health
Aids in hip and joint mobility

Cons

Kibble is too hard for some senior dogs

6. CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Senior Dry Dog Food

Crude Protein:	28%
Crude Fat:	10%
Crude Fiber:	5%

The creators of Canidaes Grain-Free PURE senior dog food has simplicity in mind when they created this kibble. Each bag is full of probiotics for immune support and features nine simple, healthy ingredients, including essential omega fatty acids for skin and coat health. Because of the premium ingredients, though, compared with other brands, this food is a fair bit more expensive.

A handful of customers reported that this food gave their pooch some digestion issues, including gas and loose stools.

Pros

Probiotics
9 simple ingredients
Omega fatty acids

Cons

Pricey
May cause digestive issues

7. Merrick Grain-Free Senior Dog Food

Crude Protein:	30%
Crude Fat:	12%
Crude Fiber:	3.5%

Merricks Grain-Free Senior dog food also uses deboned chicken as its primary source of protein and a high 30% protein content overall. Sweet potatoes are another star of the recipe and an excellent source of carbohydrates. With the many healthy vitamins and minerals included in this grain-free recipe, it is a safe and healthy choice overall for senior dogs.

However, it is higher in calories than many other senior foods and might not help your pooch maintain a healthy weight. On top of that, some dogs are sensitive to the rich ingredients. If it is important to you, not all the ingredients used are from the United States, although the kibble itself is made in the US.

Pros

Gluten-free
No artificial flavors or preservatives

Cons

Not all the ingredients are from the USA
Higher in calories
Some dogs are sensitive to recipe

Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Senior Dog Foods for Small Breeds

Your dog has given you years of happiness and companionship, and one of the best ways to repay the favor is to give them high-quality dog food as they enter old age. The problem is that not many people are aware that seniors require special food. It is easy to pick kibble based on a brand name, but thats not always the best criterion to rely on.

Tips for Choosing Quality Food for Small Senior Breeds

High-Protein, Low-Fat Diets

When dogs age, they dont have the same vigor as they used to. Their bodies start to slow down, they dont move as much, and their metabolism drops. One of the best ways to combat weight gain is to keep them on a diet that is high in animal protein and low in fat. If you know nothing else about senior dog food, this is one of the most important aspects to consider.

Veterinary Recommendations

It always helps to consult a veterinarian any time youre buying dog food. These professionals have much more insight into what dogs of a specific age and breednot to mention their individual medical historyshould be consuming on a regular basis. Senior dogs can be suffering from a number of degenerative or metabolic diseases and need a diet catered to their unique condition. The nutrient profile of a healthy senior dog will be very different from that of a senior dog with kidney disease, so consult with your veterinarian to find out what is the best option for your dog.

Balancing Their Diet

Not every senior dog is going to struggle with the same issues, so try not to rely on kibble alone. When you offer a mix of dry and canned dog food, you can keep moisture levels up and aid in your dogs digestion. Theyll also appreciate the savory taste of canned food every once in a while.

Stay Away From Harmful Ingredients

The ingredients list should be as clean as possible and isnt something you want to skim over. While the cleaner recipes can sometimes be more expensive, it is worth it to know your dog isnt going to suffer from eating foods full of artificial flavors and preservatives.

Final Verdict

As your dog moves into their golden years, it helps them feel more energized and healthier overall if they are eating high-quality food formulated for their age and breed size. The above reviews are excellent choices for small senior dogs and come highly recommended by dog lovers around the world. We have concluded that the best overall senior dog food for small dogs comes from Nom Nom. There are also brands like Blue BuffaloPurpose dog food and NULO Freestyle Senior Grain-Free dog food that work for any budget you may have. When you feed your senior dog these recipes, they are going to look and feel better well into old age!

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