Older dogs need special food as they grow. Giving them meals that are gentle and full of nutrients keeps them happy and healthy. Ever wonder what foods are best? Discover what makes senior dogs excited, whether it’s crunchy kibble, delicious canned meals, or yummy homemade treats. Keep reading to find out what keeps their tails wagging!
When it comes to selecting the best food for senior dogs, there are a few critical factors to consider. First and foremost, the food must be easy to digest. As dogs age, their digestive system becomes less efficient, and they may struggle to break down certain ingredients. Additionally, senior dogs are prone to dental issues, so soft food may be easier for them to eat.
Another crucial factor to consider is the nutritional content of the food. Senior dogs require a balanced diet that provides them with the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Foods that are high in protein can help maintain muscle mass, while those with healthy fats can support brain function and joint health.
We spent hours researching and testing various types of food to identify the best options for senior dogs. In the following sections, we’ll discuss the top dry kibble, wet food, and homemade options that we recommend for senior dogs.
Best Food for Senior Dogs
As our furry friends age, their nutritional needs change. Senior dogs require a diet that is tailored to their specific needs to ensure they remain healthy and happy. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right food for your senior pup. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best food for senior dogs to make the decision a little easier. Our team has researched and tested various brands to bring you the top options that will provide your dog with the nutrients they need to thrive in their golden years.
1. IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food for senior dogs because it provides a balanced and nutritious diet that supports their unique needs.
Pros
- Real, farm-raised chicken is the first ingredient in this healthy dog food.
- Formulated to support healthy bones and joint health with a balance of key nutrients for large aging dogs.
- Promotes healthy digestion with a blend of fiber and prebiotics.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
- The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.
- The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands.
IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is specially formulated to meet the specific wellness and nutritional needs of senior dogs. The real, farm-raised chicken provides a high-quality protein source that supports muscle maintenance and overall health. The balance of key nutrients, including calcium and phosphorus, helps support healthy bones and joints. Additionally, the blend of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion, while the antioxidants support a strong immune system.
One of the potential downsides of this dog food is that some dogs may not like the taste of it. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for some dogs, making it difficult for them to chew and digest. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other dog food brands, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious pet owners.
Overall, we believe that IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Large Breed Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for senior dogs. It provides a balanced and nutritious diet that supports their unique needs, including healthy bones and joints, digestion, and immune system function.
2. Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your senior furry friend, then Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food is an excellent choice. With real chicken as the number one ingredient, this dog food provides your dog with the protein they need to maintain their muscle mass and strength. It also contains EPA, an omega-3 fatty acid, and glucosamine that support joint health and mobility.
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 dogs may not like the taste
- The kibble size may be too large for smaller breeds
- It may be more expensive than other brands
We’ve been feeding our senior dog Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. He seems to have more energy, and his coat looks shinier and healthier. We also appreciate that it contains prebiotic fiber that supports beneficial bacteria in the intestinal tract, which is essential for good digestive health.
One of the things we love about this dog food is that it comes in a shredded blend, which makes it easier for our dog to eat. The kibble size is just right, and the tender meaty pieces add a delicious flavor that our dog can’t resist. We also like that it’s fortified with guaranteed live probiotics, which helps support our dog’s immune system.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their senior furry friend. It’s made with high-quality ingredients, and it provides your dog with the essential nutrients they need to maintain their health and vitality.
3. ORIJEN Senior Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food for senior dogs who need a nutrient-dense, grain-free diet to maintain healthy weight and joint function.
Pros
- The first five ingredients are fresh or raw chicken, turkey, salmon, whole herring, and chicken liver to provide your dog with a strong source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Contains up to 85% animal ingredients and ORIJEN WholePrey ingredients to mimic what your dog’s ancestors consumed in the wild.
- Made with naturally occurring Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, plus Chondroitin and Glucosamine, to help support your senior dog’s joint health.
Cons
- It is a bit pricey compared to other senior dog food brands.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
- The strong smell of salmon may be off-putting to some dog owners.
ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food is made in the USA with quality ingredients from around the world. It does not contain soy, corn, tapioca, or wheat ingredients.
This dog food is tailored to maintain healthy weight and joint function in senior dogs. It is nutrient-dense and made with the most succulent and nutrient-rich parts of the prey. The freeze-dried coating provides a burst of flavor that dogs instinctively crave.
In conclusion, if you want to provide your senior dog with a high-quality, grain-free diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, then ORIJEN Senior Grain Free Dry Dog Food is the perfect choice for you.
4. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Chicken 12.5-oz can (Pack of 12)
If you’re looking for a natural and tasty wet food option for your senior dog, Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food is worth considering.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the first ingredient to support healthy muscle maintenance.
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility in older dogs.
- Can be fed as a treat, mixed into dry food, or as a meal on its own.
Cons
- More expensive than some other wet food options.
- Some dogs may not like the texture or flavor.
- Contains rice and barley, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
We recently tried Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food with our senior dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real chicken as the first ingredient made us feel good about what we were feeding our dog. We also appreciated that it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility, which is important for older dogs.
Our dog enjoyed the food and we liked that it can be fed in a variety of ways – as a treat, mixed into dry food, or as a meal on its own. However, we did find it to be a bit more expensive than some other wet food options we’ve tried. Additionally, some dogs may not like the texture or flavor, and it does contain rice and barley, which may not be suitable for dogs with grain sensitivities.
Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food for those looking for a high-quality wet food option for their senior dog.
5. Nulo FreeStyle Senior Dog Grain-Free Trout & Sweet Potato
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your senior furry friend, Nulo FreeStyle Senior Dog Grain-Free Trout & Sweet Potato is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The high animal-protein, grain-free formula provides superior nutrition for your senior dog.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin support hip and joint health, which is essential for aging dogs.
- The addition of L-carnitine helps support metabolism of fats for dogs that aren’t as active as they used to be.
Cons
- This premium dog food is relatively expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of trout and sweet potato.
- The 26-pound bag may be too heavy for some pet owners to carry.
Nulo FreeStyle Senior Dog Grain-Free Trout & Sweet Potato is a grain-free senior formula that is made without chicken and egg proteins, making it ideal for dogs with food sensitivities. It also contains pure probiotic strains to aid in proper digestion, and calcium and phosphorus to help your dog maintain strong bones while wholesome vegetables and fruits support optimal immune health.
This dog food is manufactured in the USA and contains no corn, wheat gluten, soy, artificial preservatives, colors, or flavoring. The GanedenBC30 biotic supports healthy gut flora to aid digestion and also enhances metabolism and immune response. Nulo Freestyle Senior also includes L-Carnitine to support weight management and metabolism health.
Overall, we highly recommend Nulo FreeStyle Senior Dog Grain-Free Trout & Sweet Potato for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that provides superior nutrition for their senior furry friend.
6. Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs
If you’re looking for a quality dog food for your senior furry friend, then Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs is a great option.
Pros
- With real chicken as the first ingredient, this dog food is high in protein and energy, which helps keep senior dogs active.
- Made from high-quality natural ingredients, this dog food is free from chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat or soy, making it a healthy option for your dog.
- This dog food contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and overall mobility, which is especially important for senior dogs.
Cons
- This dog food is a bit expensive compared to other dog foods in the market.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
- The kibble size may be too big for some small breeds.
Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs is a great option for senior dogs who need a high-quality dog food that’s rich in protein and energy. This dog food is made from natural ingredients, making it a healthy option for your furry friend.
The first thing we noticed about this dog food is that it contains real chicken as the first ingredient. This makes it high in protein and energy, which helps keep senior dogs active. Additionally, the dog food is free from chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat or soy, making it a healthy option for your dog.
Another great feature of this dog food is that it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and overall mobility. This is especially important for senior dogs who may have joint problems.
However, this dog food is a bit expensive compared to other dog foods in the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and the kibble size may be too big for some small breeds.
Overall, Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs is a great option for senior dogs who need a high-quality dog food that’s rich in protein and energy. If you’re looking for a dog food that will keep your furry friend healthy and active, then this is definitely worth considering.
7. NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food
If you want to give your senior dog a nutritious meal, NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food could be the right choice for you. As we have been using this food for our senior dog for a while, we would highly recommend it to other pet owners.
Pros
- Made with non-GMO ingredients and real chicken as the first ingredient
- Formulated to support joint health and aging immune system with natural sources of glucosamine, chondroitin, and essential antioxidants
- Provides natural fiber for healthy digestion
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Expensive compared to other brands
- May cause digestive issues in some dogs
This dry dog food is specially formulated for large breed senior dogs aged six years and older. It contains natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and essential antioxidants to boost your dog’s aging immune system. The natural fiber in the food promotes healthy digestion, which is crucial for senior dogs. The recipe starts with real chicken as the first ingredient and is made with non-GMO ingredients.
One of the benefits of NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food is that it is made with high-quality ingredients sourced from trusted farmers and suppliers. The kibble is cooked in the USA facilities, ensuring that the product is of high quality. Additionally, the food does not contain chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy.
Our senior dog loves the taste of this food, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health. However, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, and it may cause digestive issues in some dogs. Furthermore, it is more expensive than other brands, which could be a drawback for some pet owners.
In conclusion, if you want to give your senior dog a nutritious meal that supports their joint health, aging immune system, and digestion, NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Large Breed Senior Dry Dog Food could be a great option for you.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best food for your senior dog, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are making the right choice. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a product:
Nutritional Requirements
Senior dogs have different nutritional requirements than younger dogs. They require a diet that is lower in calories and fat, but higher in protein and fiber. Look for dog food that is specifically formulated for senior dogs and meets their nutritional needs.
Ingredients
The quality of ingredients is important when choosing dog food. Look for products that use high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, fish, or lamb, and avoid those that contain meat by-products or fillers. Additionally, look for dog food that contains natural preservatives, such as vitamin E, instead of artificial preservatives.
Texture
As dogs age, they may experience dental issues or have trouble chewing. Choose a dog food that has a soft texture or can be easily softened with water. This will make it easier for your senior dog to eat and digest their food.
Brand Reputation
Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality dog food. Look for brands that have undergone testing and have a good track record of producing safe and healthy dog food.
Price
While price is not always an indicator of quality, it is important to choose a dog food that fits within your budget. Compare prices and read reviews to find a product that provides good value for money.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best food for your senior dog that meets their nutritional needs and keeps them healthy and happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated senior dog foods according to consumer reviews?
There are several senior dog foods that have received high ratings from consumers. Some of the top-rated brands include Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Purina Pro Plan. These brands offer a range of options for senior dogs, including formulas for joint health, weight management, and digestive health.
Which human foods are safe and nutritious for senior dogs?
While it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before feeding your dog human food, there are some safe and nutritious options for senior dogs. These include cooked lean meats, such as chicken or turkey, as well as vegetables like carrots and green beans. Fruits such as apples and bananas can also be given in moderation.
At what age should a dog transition to senior formula food?
Dogs are considered seniors when they reach 7-8 years of age. However, the age at which a dog should transition to senior formula food may vary depending on their breed, size, and overall health. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate time to switch your dog’s food.
What ingredients in senior dog food can help with arthritis?
Senior dog foods often contain ingredients that can help with arthritis, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. These ingredients can help support joint health and reduce inflammation. Additionally, foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, can also be beneficial for dogs with arthritis.
How can I manage my senior dog’s weight through diet?
Managing a senior dog’s weight through diet can be done by feeding them a food that is lower in calories and fat. Look for senior dog foods that are labeled as “weight management” or “light” formulas. Additionally, feeding smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help regulate their appetite and prevent overeating.
What type of food is suitable for older small dogs with dental issues?
For older small dogs with dental issues, wet or canned food may be a better option than dry kibble. Wet food is easier for them to chew and can help prevent further damage to their teeth. Additionally, there are special dental formulas available that can help promote dental health and clean teeth as they eat.
