Food For Senior Dog: Aging Dog Diet & Nutritional Needs

After aging, the eating habits and dietary needs of dog start changing. Aging dogs may also have metabolic, immunologic and body composition changes, too. In this article, we will explain some ideal foods that are suitable for the senior dogs.

Are you aware of health issues related to senior dogs? Here are health problems in senior dogs

Tendencies to be overweight

Due to less activity and exercise, many senior dogs gain weight. Obesity is a common problem in the senior dog, and as they do not exercise as much, weight loss can be quite difficult for them. It is much better to not let your canine companion get overweight than to try to make him lose weight when he gets older. If your dog is overweight, then you should strive to get the extra weight off. It is the most important thing that you can do to enhance the quality and length of life for your dog.

• Suitable food ingredients for senior dogs

Dog foods that are suitable for the senior dogs should have the following characteristics:

• Slightly decreased fat- A diet with less fat helps your senior dog maintain a healthy body condition
• Enhanced antioxidant levels- senior dogs can benefit from the antioxidants that provide extra support for their declining immune systems.
• Highly digestible ingredients- The aging digestive system of the senior dogs will benefit from the ingredients that are easy for him to digest.
• Adapted calorie levels- optimized calorie levels help the senior dogs maintain an ideal body condition while supporting joint health
• Lower minerals- Some senior dogs may have high blood pressure, therefore, it is better to give foods that are low in minerals.
• More vitamins- Vitamin B complex has an important function in the nerve-regulation and metabolism. Canines as well as felines can make their own vitamin C out of glucose, though adding extra vitamin C can be beneficial when demand is higher (in case of vitamin E and A shortage).
• Diets with high fiber- High fiber diet helps in easy digestion in the senior dogs.

Supplements for older dogs

Senior dogs have special needs for nutrition, and some of these can be supplied in the form of supplements. Feeding supplement containing chondroitin and glucosamine on daily basis may help support joints of your dog. If your canine companion is not eating a balanced diet, then a mineral/ vitamin supplement is recommended so as to prevent any deficiencies. Some pet owners also like to feed extra antioxidants. As mentioned earlier, fiber products such as wheat bran may also help to reduce the incidence of constipation in the senior pets.

Commercial foods for senior dogs

Various brands make food for senior dogs. These foods have all the ingredients in exact proportion. Some best commercial foods for senior dogs are:

• Fidele Light & Senior Adult Food
• Eukanuba Mature And Senior Large Breed Food
• More Large Breed Senior Dog Food
• Fidele Light & Senior Adult Food
• Hills Science Plan Puppy Large Breed Chicken
• Drools Adult Medium Breed