Nutrition for Older Pets

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COULD WHAT YOU FEED YOUR DOG ADD YEARS TO THEIR LIFE?

Just maybe!! Read on…

According to one monumental lifetime study, lean-fed dogs (i.e., those fed 25% fewer calories than their littermates during their lifetime) lived 15%—or nearly two years—longer and experienced fewer age-related changes. While similar benefits may be possible with fresh or raw food diets, more extensive research is needed. What we do know is that your dog’s food fuels not only their activities but also their health. And, as your dog ages, they especially need nutritious, digestible, and appropriate nutrition for maintaining body condition, strength, and vitality.

Let’s take a closer look at how you can accurately satisfy your senior dog’s appetite and nutritional needs.

Those Special Seniors: Nutrition For Older Pets

Animal-based, high-quality protein remains the number one nutrient for senior dogs, as it maintains muscle mass, fuels every internal process, and supports overall health. Senior dogs may also benefit from higher levels of key nutrients, including inflammation-reducing omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants such as vitamins C and E to prevent oxidative damage. Additionally, overweight or less active senior dogs require fewer calories to prevent further weight gain and reduce obesity-related health risks. Conversely, some seniors may need increased fiber or probiotic supplements to ensure a healthy and well-functioning digestive system. Finally, if your dog has a health condition, ask your veterinarian about your dog’s individual nutritional requirements, as many disease processes and their treatments can alter your dog’s dietary needs.

Nutrition for Older Pets –Everything in moderation? Understand the meaning of a complete and balanced canine diet

Excessive or inadequate nutrient intake can have devastating health consequences for dogs. But, you can easily ensure your senior dog is consuming the ideal ratio of protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals—look for a food that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards. These products will feature an AAFCO statement pronouncing the diet as “complete and balanced” on their label.

How frequently should my dog eat? Less is more

Don’t tell my dogs, but there is a brand new study coming out of the Dog Aging Project which proves that pets fed just once daily have fewer health issues than dogs fed more frequently.

Dry, fresh, or raw? Determining the best dog food type for your senior

Although legions of people in online forums passionately disagree, the best dog food type for your senior dog is the one they do well on. While each type—including dry or kibble, fresh food, raw diets, and wet or canned food—has its merits, there is little validated information about the superiority of any particular canine diet. No matter which type speaks to you, the final determination of what to feed your dog should be based on ingredient quality, your dog’s response, and whether the price point fits in your budget.

As a general rule, look for a dog food diet that contains recognizable animal-based proteins, whole-food nutrient sources (e.g., produce, oils), few to no synthetic or artificial ingredients, and is low in carbohydrates, as these can trigger inflammation and are not necessary in the canine diet.

Making the switch: Safely transitioning your senior dog to a new food

As dogs age, their digestive systems can become sensitive to change. If you’re preparing to switch your senior dog’s diet, transition gradually over 7 to 10 days. Each day, add a small amount of new food and remove an equal portion of the old food. As long as your dog shows no digestive distress signs, continue increasing the quantity of new food each day until the switch is complete. If your dog begins vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, gas, or bloating, take a step back and transition more slowly.

Nutrition for Older Pets –Use your dog’s body condition to determine their meal portions

While mathematical equations can determine your dog’s daily caloric intake, it’s often easier and more effective to rely on your dog’s body condition to decide their meal portions. Regularly assessing your dog’s body mass can help you fine tune your dog’s feeding regimen and ensure their portions meet the necessary goal (e.g., weight gain, weight loss, or current weight maintenance).

Use a body condition scoring system, such as this one, at least once a month and adjust your dog’s food intake according to the results.

How will I know? Determining if your dog’s food is working

An appropriate senior dog diet is one that is not only palatable, but highly digestible—ensuring that your dog’s body can effectively absorb and apply the necessary nutrients. To determine if your dog’s diet is performing well, routinely assess your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. This includes:

Healthy skin and coat
Optimal body condition
Appropriate energy
Regular small bowel movements

Alternatively, if you notice digestive issues, itching or dry skin, dull coat, or behavior changes, your dog may require a diet adjustment. Consult your veterinarian for guidance and a proper diagnosis before changing foods.

Make mealtime fun: Use puzzle toys to create a mentally engaging experience

Your senior dog’s meal time is a great opportunity to add enrichment and fun to their day, while promoting slower eating. Introduce toys that encourage your older dog to use their mind and body to access or sniff out hidden food. Options include:

Motion activated toys that wobble, role, or spin and randomly release dry food
Lick mats for spreadable soft food
Fabric or silicone snuffle mats that encourage sniffing and problem solving to access hidden food

Ensure your senior dog’s success by starting with beginner-level puzzles before moving on to more complex challenges.

Your senior dog has been with you through all of life’s ups and downs. Now, it’s your turn to support them through their life changes. Select an age-appropriate high-quality food that promotes optimal health, customize portion sizes, and monitor their health, and you can help make every day the best day ever for your senior dog.

Ready for more tips and insights on how to help your dog live longer? Download our free ebook, browse the Helping Pets Live Longer article library, and explore our line of life-enhancing supplements.