Food for senior dogs
Senior dogs, also known as older dogs, have specific nutritional needs that differ from younger dogs. As dogs age, their energy requirements, digestion, and overall health change. The right food can help keep your senior dog fit, healthy, and comfortable during this important life stage. This guide covers everything about senior dog food, including when a dog is considered a senior, and what to look for when choosing food.
When is a dog considered a senior?
A dog is considered “senior” when it enters the final stage of its life. This depends largely on the dog’s size and breed, as larger dogs age faster than smaller ones.
Senior age by weight class
-
Small breeds (<22 lbs)
Usually considered senior at 8–10 years -
Medium breeds (22–55 lbs)
Usually considered senior at 7–9 years -
Large breeds (55–88 lbs)
Typically considered senior at 6–8 years -
Very large breeds (>88 lbs)
Often considered senior at 5–7 years due to their shorter lifespan
Specific needs of senior dogs
Older dogs need a modified diet to meet their changing needs. Their diet should focus on:
- Healthy weight management: A lower-calorie diet helps prevent obesity.
- Joint support: A diet enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin can help keep joints healthy.
- Easy-to-digest food: A higher fiber content and easily digestible ingredients support healthy bowel function.
- Muscle support: High-quality proteins help maintain muscle mass.
- Supporting the immune system: Antioxidants and omega fatty acids strengthen the natural defenses.
Signs that your dog needs senior food.
Here are some signs that it's time to switch to senior food:
- Your dog moves less and seems stiffer or slower.
- There is a noticeable change in weight, such as weight gain or loss.
- Your dog is sleeping more or has less energy.
- Dental problems or difficulty chewing.
- Changes in digestion, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation.
Benefits of senior food
Food specifically designed for senior dogs offers many benefits:
- Healthy weight: Due to its lower energy density, senior food helps prevent overweight.
- Improved mobility: Ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin support joints and make movement easier.
- Healthy digestion: Extra fiber and easily digestible ingredients promote proper bowel function.
- Stronger immune system: Antioxidants and omega fatty acids help to strengthen your dog's natural defenses.
Discover our range of senior food and more.
At Fidello, you'll find a wide range of senior dog food specially formulated to meet the needs of older dogs. We also offer grain-free food for dogs with sensitive stomachs, diet food for specific health problems, and a wide selection of snacks to spoil your senior dog.
More for your senior dog at Fidello
In addition to food, Fidello also offers handy accessories and care products for senior dogs. These include things like beds and cushions for extra comfort, non-slip food and water bowls , and dental care products to support healthy teeth.
Looking for the best quality breed-specific dog food? Check out our range of breed-specific dog food, where dog kibble and wet food are specially formulated for a specific dog breed.
Why choose Fidello?
At Fidello, we make caring for your senior dog easier and more enjoyable. Large, heavy bags of food? No problem, we'll deliver them right to your door. Want to get even more out of your purchase? Enter our holiday photo contest and win great discounts. Fidello stands for convenience, quality, and a happy dog – your loyal companion deserves the best!
Offering food in a fun way.
Want to offer food or snacks in a fun way? Then take a look at our fun and playful food and snack dispensers, where your dog has to play and work for its reward.