Nutritional needs vary for every dog, and senior dogs are no exception. As our canine companions enter their golden years, their dietary needs must be modified to ensure their health and vitality. After all, they require special attention to their nutrition to support their aging bodies and maintain a high quality of life.
When are dogs considered seniors, and what do senior dogs need in their diet?
This comprehensive guide will explore the essential senior dog diet requirements. It will also shed light on a dog’s transition to its golden years and the intricacies of nourishing a senior dog with arthritis.
When is a Dog Considered a Senior?
There is no medically agreed-upon age when a dog can be considered a senior. While every dog is different, their size, breed, and weight are major factors.
Generally, smaller breeds tend to age more slowly and are considered seniors around 10-12 years of age. On the other hand, larger breeds have a shorter life expectancy and are deemed a senior at around 5-6 years old.
Being a senior dog doesn’t necessarily mean they become weak and prone to medical conditions. In fact, many dogs are healthy even when they reach their senior years.
Some common signs of aging include vision problems, lumps and skin issues, weight loss or gain, and dental symptoms such as bad breath and excessive drooling. As your dog nears its golden years, you should be more attentive to these symptoms as it indicates the need for more regular checkups.
Senior dogs must visit the vet twice yearly to get the medical attention they need–such as physical exams and blood work–to detect changes in organ functions and other internal issues. It will also help you understand what changes in their nutrition you should do.
What Do Senior Dogs Need in Their Diet?
With all the changes happening in a senior dog’s body, their diet must be modified. After all, they have unique dietary needs that differ from puppies and adult canines. Some of the changes include:
- Higher fiber for better gastrointestinal health
- Fewer calories as they won’t need much energy like younger pups
- Higher quality protein sources: to maintain ideal body weight without straining organs
- Omega fatty acids: to help joints, skin, and coat
- Antioxidants: slow down aging and milden symptoms
Food Guide for Senior Dogs with Arthritis
Most dogs will develop arthritis as they age in one or more joints. Wear-and-tear breaks down the cushiony cartilage between their joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. While the effects of arthritis are inevitable, there are some dietary changes you can do to slow its progression and reduce symptoms.
This food guide includes common whole food, supplements, and diet options to treat senior dogs with arthritis.
Fatty Proteins: No
One of the many concerns of senior dogs with arthritis is weight gain, and fatty proteins can contribute to that. Being overweight can complicate their condition. While fatty protein strengthens muscles to protect joints, it can cause your furry friend to carry extra weight. It’s best to opt for lean proteins, such as chicken, turkey, or grass-fed meat, so your senior dog can still enjoy its benefits without the risk of complications.
Sardines: Yes
Sardines is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit joint, heart, and cognitive health. Your senior dog will also enjoy protein, which can help reduce muscle loss.
As your furry friend ages, it becomes picky with what it eats. Sardines can help pique a fickle appetite, especially for senior dogs with arthritis. Its delicious fish taste can entice them to enjoy their meals.
However, sardines are high in fat and sodium, so they should only be given to your senior dog in small amounts a few times a week. Otherwise, they worsen diagnosed and undiagnosed pancreatic and kidney issues.
Grains: No
Grains can cause complications apart from joint problems, such as skin allergies, yeasty ears, urinary tract infections, and other intestinal issues. In fact, many processed commercial dog food contains grains which can cause a fluctuation in your dog’s blood sugar levels, resulting in painful swelling.
However, we do not recommend going for a completely grain-free dog food diet. A balanced and varied diet ensures your pet receives all the nutrients it needs, some of which come from grains. Lack of certain sustenance from grains can lead to heart problems. It’s best to consult your veterinarian before changing your senior dog’s diet.
Salmon: Yes
Another seafood ideal for senior dogs with arthritis is salmon. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. However, similar to sardines, they should also be fed in small amounts.
Remember never to give your pet raw salmon as it contains a parasite that is deadly to them but harmless once cooked. Otherwise, you can opt for canned salmon in water because they are already cooked and soft enough to eat.
Fish Oil: Yes
If you prefer a mess-free and easier way to relieve joint pain, we recommend a fish oil supplement. They come either as an oil you can pour over your pet’s food for added flavor and nutrients or as a chewable treat.
Chicken Feet: Yes
Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two building blocks of joints. They are naturally produced in a dog’s body, and supplementing them can help slow cartilage degeneration.
Various sources of these building blocks, such as duck and chicken feet. Although they contain a generous amount of protein, they are also high in fat, which may not be appropriate for dogs prone to pancreatitis.
While veterinary nutritionists always warn about the danger of feeding dogs bones, such as splinters and choking, dehydrated chicken feet are different. They comprise mostly cartilage, connective tissue, and skin, with almost no bones. Their dehydration also makes them soft and easy to chew and digest.
Corn: No
Corn has nutritional benefits despite being considered a filler in a dog’s diet. It should be taken in moderation because of its high carbohydrate content. While it may give a quick source of energy, it can lead to sensitivity that results in inflammation. The reactions aren’t immediate, but they will gradually worsen swelling over time.
Beef Trachea: Yes
Similar to chicken feet, the trachea or windpipe is made of cartilage rings, making it an excellent source of glucosamine and chondroitin for senior dogs with arthritis. We recommend supervising your dog while it enjoys a trachea. While they can be a natural teeth cleaner for some canines, others may struggle with long-lasting treats.
Salts, Sugars, and Additives: No
Processed food contributes to inflammation, and all manufactured dog foods are processed to some extent. If you don’t have the budget or luxury of time to home cook meals for your dog, you can select commercial dog food, provided they don’t contain added salts, sugars, and artificial additives. Remember to read the label first before buying.
Keep Senior Dogs Healthy During their Golden Years
Providing proper nutrition for our senior canine companions is fundamental to ensuring their continued health and happiness. By understanding what senior dogs need in their diet and modifying it according to their needs, you can support their aging bodies, boost their immune systems, and manage any health conditions that may arise, including arthritis.
Remember to consult your veterinarian before making any gradual dietary changes and transitioning your senior dog to a new diet. With the right approach to nutrition, you can ensure your furry friend the best possible quality of life as they enter their golden years.
Visit the TPLO Info blog to learn more about dog health care.
