https://www.chewy.com/education/dog/food-and-nutrition/senior-dog-diet
*Dogs are OMNIVORES.
Senior dog diets are designed to accommodate the changing nutritional needs of aging dogs, although there are no standardized nutrient requirements specifically for this life stage.
These formulas often feature reduced calorie content to help manage weight and may include additional supplements to support joint, digestive, or cognitive health.
However, the nutrient profiles of senior dog foods can vary significantly, making it essential to evaluate each product based on its ingredient composition and nutritional adequacy.
As dogs age, their bodies become less efficient at processing certain nutrients, particularly protein, which plays a critical role in maintaining muscle mass.
Senior dogs may also benefit from joint-supporting ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Additionally, lower calorie diets are often recommended due to decreased activity levels, though energy needs can differ based on breed, size, and health status, so individualized assessments are important when selecting food.
Specialized diets are available to address common health issues in older dogs, including obesity, joint discomfort, sensitive digestion, kidney disease, heart conditions, and cognitive decline.
The decision to switch to a senior specific formula should be based on the dog’s individual condition rather than age alone, and changes in diet should always be made gradually.
Feeding guidelines should be adjusted based on caloric content and the dog’s specific requirements, with veterinary oversight to ensure nutritional balance and health maintenance throughout the senior years.
Chewy editorial team helps to uncover the important truth - as dogs grow older, their nutritional needs may shift, but not every senior dog requires a specialized diet.
The team explains in details when a diet change is truly beneficial, ensuring pet parents can make thoughtful, informed choices to support their dog’s health and happiness in the years that matter most.
