Age, they say, is just a number—and that goes for our canine companions, too. With regular veterinary care, a healthy lifestyle and plenty of love, your senior dog can live their best life and make the most of their golden years.
One of the most important parts of a healthy lifestyle? Nutrition. Just like humans, dogs require a nutritious, high-quality diet to thrive, and their dietary needs change throughout the course of their life. If your four-legged friend is getting older and wiser, it’s time to reevaluate their diet and ensure they’re set up for success with the best senior dog food.
Why Do Older Dogs Need Senior Dog Food?
Some things about your dog will never change—for example, the way they look at you when you walk through the door, or the way their ears perk up when they hear the word “bacon.”
However, dietary needs change as our dogs age, explains Dr. Jessica Herman, DVM, a small-animal veterinarian based in Shelbyville, Kentucky.
“It is very important to feed your dog appropriately for [their] life stage,” says Dr. Herman. “Senior pets require a lower-calorie product that is high in fiber and has a higher-quality protein. Our aging pets do not exert the same amount of energy as they did when they were puppies, nor are they growing, and do not require high-calorie foods.”
At what age is a dog considered a “senior”? Different breeds age at different paces, so there’s no “magic number,” but the breakdown below provides general guidelines:
- Small breeds: 10-12 years old
- Medium breeds: 8-9 years old
- Large breeds and giant breeds: 6-7 years old
Many senior dog food formulas contain joint supplements. For this reason, Dr. Heather Frankfurt, DVM, a veterinarian at Hillside Veterinary Clinic in Dallas, Texas, advises having a conversation with your veterinarian about your dog’s changing dietary needs around age 7, and possibly even younger.
“I recommend all dogs over the age of 7 be on a joint supplement,” she says. “For larger breed dogs, I recommend them starting one at an even earlier age.”
What Is Senior Dog Food?
There’s no single senior dog food that’s best for all aging dogs. Instead, the best dog foods formulated for seniors typically contain a combination of the following features to promote wellness and address age-related conditions:
Fewer calories: Because older pets typically have lower activity levels and exert less energy, senior formulas usually contain fewer calories to help maintain a healthy weight, explains Dr. Frankfurt. In addition to dangerous health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes, excess weight can lead to arthritis in aging joints. “Obesity is something I take quite seriously, because of the toll it takes on our pets’ bodies,” she says. “Weight is a topic I discuss quite frequently.”
More fiber: Additional fiber helps promote gastrointestinal health and can be beneficial for pets with a sensitive stomach, while having the added benefit of helping pets feel fuller while consuming fewer calories.
More protein: Muscle mass tends to decrease with age, which is why many senior formulas contain increased amounts of animal protein. “Quality proteins help to maintain healthy muscle mass to keep mobility, and are important for elderly dogs,” says Dr. Herman.
Joint supplements: Senior formulas frequently contain supplements, including glucosamine and chondroitin, to support joint health.
Tastier flavors: Sometimes, it’s important to encourage a senior dog to consume more calories. Dogs undergoing treatment for medical conditions such as cancer may lose their appetite, so highly palatable formulas and meal-enhancing “toppers” can make mealtime more enticing.
Softer textures: Regular dental care can ensure that your dog maintains healthy, happy teeth as they age. However, for dogs who have had multiple tooth extractions or no longer have any teeth, wet formulas, which are softer than kibble, can make mealtimes more comfortable.
While the above-mentioned qualities make senior dog foods appropriate for many older pups, other dogs can continue to eat standard adult formulas, notes Dr. Herman. This differs from growing puppies, she adds, who must eat specially formulated puppy formulas to meet nutritional requirements.
How To Find the Best Senior Dog Food
If shopping for senior dog food feels overwhelming, you’re not alone—the ever-expanding pet market is flooded with options, and not all formulas are created equal. Consider the following when selecting a diet for your aging pooch:
Your Veterinarian’s Input
Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, have a conversation with your veterinarian about your individual dog’s needs and any age-related concerns you may have. Your vet should be able to recommend brands and formulas that suit your one-of-a-kind four-legged friend.
AAFCO Standards
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a private, non-profit organization that sets the nutritional standards for pet food. These AAFCO “nutrient profiles” detail the amount of macronutrients, like proteins and fats, and micronutrients, like vitamins and minerals, dogs need at different life stages. When selecting a product, look on the packaging for a statement that says it meets AAFCO standards. “Anyone can create a food product for pets, market it, then sell it without the food being analyzed for nutritional balance,” cautions Dr. Herman. By feeding a dog food that meets AAFCO standards, “you know that the product your dog is consuming has the correct nutrient content for his or her health.”
Ingredient List
On pet food packaging, ingredients are listed in descending order by weight—meaning the first couple ingredients make up the majority of the formula. Your best bud deserves the best quality ingredients, so make sure the list starts off with the good stuff (such as chicken, salmon or beef) and not cheap fillers (including soy, gluten and wheat).
Guaranteed Analysis
Perhaps even more important than the ingredient list is the package’s “guaranteed analysis,” which breaks down the food’s nutrient content. Per AAFCO standards, adult dog food must contain a minimum of 18 percent crude protein and 5.5 percent crude fat on a “dry matter basis” (a mathematical calculation that compensates for the varying amounts of water that pet foods contain) to meet nutritional needs. Note that AAFCO does not provide guidelines specifically for senior pets and these percentages can vary significantly, so it’s important to have a conversation with your veterinarian about your dog’s individual needs.
Kibble Size
Kibble size is always important to consider, but especially with senior dogs, who may have had tooth extractions. When selecting a food, ensure that the kibble is the appropriate size for your dog to comfortably chew. This can vary greatly among dog breeds.
Canned Food vs. Kibble
Some dogs thrive on dry kibble, while for others the taste and texture of wet food are preferable. If your dog is a picky eater or experiencing health issues that can cause decreased appetite, a canned formula may be a better option.
Supplements
If joint health is a concern, consider a recipe that includes supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve mobility in dogs with arthritis.
Humane and Sustainable Ingredients
If you’re an animal lover, you might consider choosing a formula made from humanely raised meats and sustainably caught seafood. While the health benefits for your own furry friend may be marginal, responsible farming and fishing practices improve the lives of farm animals and wildlife.
Best Senior Dog Foods
If you’re considering a senior-specific food for your distinguished dog, you’ve come to the right place. We rounded up the best-selling and top-rated senior dog food brands and recipes among Chewy customers to help you find a quality product that fits your pet’s changing needs. These are the best senior dog foods of 2024, according to senior dog parents like you.
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1
Purina ONE SmartBlend Vibrant Maturity 7+ Formula Adult Premium Dry Dog Food, 31.1-lb... $50 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$50 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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2
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Shredded Blend Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food, 34-lb ba... $72 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$72 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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3
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food,... $65 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$65 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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4
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior Chicken Dinner with Garden Vegetables Canned Dog... $35 on Chewy
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5
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Rice & Barley Recipe Dry Dog Food, 33-lb b... $79 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$79 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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The dogs love it
The larger dogs would sometimes not finish her food but now that's not an issue. The little chows down in it.
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Amazing service
Fast delivery. Phone service is incredible. Recently, my pup of 14 years passed. CHEWY sent a wonderful card and rock. They also included a treat for our new pup. So so sweet. Thank you
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Good choice for older dogs
Shredded pieces, wish there were more to get my dog to clean the bowl leaves kibble behind. Kibble could be bigger for my 80 pound guy
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Very easy and convenient
My dog has been eating Purina dog food his whole life(8yrs old) He loves the taste of this food despite trying more expensive foods, we always come back to this.
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Vet suggested Dog Food
When we wanted to stop feed our dog grain free dog food our vet suggested this brand. Our dog took to it right away and lets us know when it’s time for his dinner.
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Aging and loving it
She had science diet food, but really goes crazy for this food. I only giver her 2 cups for Golden mix breed female
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putting on a bit of weight
My dog likes this food. Since she has gotten older she was loosing weight and looking to skinny, this food has her looking better.
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Fur-Baby Approved
Healthy ingredients and a texture my pups love - crunchy but not too much so even my older mini Dachshund with failing teeth can enjoy!
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Our dogs love this food!
My sweet senior corgis absolutely love this dog food. One of mine has turned her nose up to everything else lately except for this food. She gobbles it down.
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Yummy in the Tummy
My dogs, both large and small, absolutely love the taste of this. I save it for certain times such as adding a pill or medication. I can be sure they are getting a high quality food also.
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Product Availability
Love Chewy’s product selections. In stock, shipped quickly, many brick & mortar stores don’t carry it or price per can is more than Chewy
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Dented cans
Thank for the replacement of Blue Buffalo for my dog. This is the second case. It is a shame since you cannot even donate the food.
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My dogs love this kibble
I tried the "sensitive stomach" formulation of this dry kibble and it did not set well with my dogs. This one keeps their stomachs happy.
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Senior
My dog Echo really likes this food. I was worried that he would not like it since we just changed to the new formula!
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Chocolates food
It’s kept my doh healthy and living longer than he is expected to live. Worked for 18 years, that’s how long he’s been eating this brand of dog food. No house food ever.
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He seems to like it
He eats it. Got it cause it was for senior dogs. Don’t see a difference in his body but he likes it.
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My dog loves it.
My lab isn’t a fussy eater but she’s become a dry food snob in her old age. This is finally one she approves of.
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Works great for my dog
Our senior Puggle has been on this for a few years. I love the price and speedy delivery from Chewy. Our dog loves this food. Agree's with her and she has been on a healthy weight with it.
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Terrific food, albeit pricey but worth it
Orijen is expensive, and I’m lucky to have small dogs. It is formulated such that you serve less in a meal than other brands. It’s loaded with proteins that are minimally processed. I never have to add any “gravy” or other incentive to get them to eat it. When friends dogs visit, they love it too. Also, my dogs have never had a weight issue on this food.
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Been great food for years
I’ve been feeding this for years to several old rescues I’ve had. They all liked it and did well on it as far as I can tell. I know the ‘grain free’ scares some people away from it, but the first few ingredients are what should be considered. They are right on. The pieces could be smaller for small dogs but my doxies and MinPin do fine with them.
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Foxie
Debbie LOVES Foxie, He also comes to bed with him. All the dogs play with him. Fox is so strong, and satisfies the chewing and pulling.
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It was on time!
We have tried other delivery services and it takes 10 days!! You were super fast on delivery and everything was correct!
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Nulo Senior
Honestly, it’s one of the best dog food brands on the market. Lewis doesn’t seem to mind it either!
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Vet recommended
My vet recommended this food for our senior dog. She gets easily overheated and this "cooling" food can help with that, and also regulated some of the other issues in a senior blood test panel.
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Baxter loves his new food!
He devours it. I emptied it into his bin and he took it upon himself to make sure there were no morsels left inside. He can’t wait for his meals now.
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This is a better one
After tasted for the wild change their dog food it's been real hard to find a good dog food. I had try the candle dog food in the red for 3 months and my dog stated eating grass. Every walk. It just messed up his stomach. So we tried this flavor lot better. We had to mix the bag half and half and it's gave him the ruins. He like this flavor better and it dose cost more well worth it
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Best senior food for my dog
It’s extremely difficult to find a senior grain free dry dog food for dogs with kidney issues who need to decrease their protein intake. This food fits the bill. It took me many hours of research to finally find this food. Thank you Canidae.
Senior Dog Food FAQs
Q: At what age is a dog considered a senior?
A: Dogs age at different rates depending on their size and breed, so there’s no “magic number” to denote the beginning of the senior years. However, senior dog foods are typically formulated for canines 7+ years old. If your dog is a large or giant breed, you may want to consider diet-related changes sooner; conversely, smaller dogs may wait longer. Your veterinarian can help you determine when your one-of-a-kind pup is approaching their golden years.
Q: How do you transition dog food?
A: When changing foods, it’s important to slowly introduce the new formula to avoid gastrointestinal problems. Slow and steady is the name of the game: Begin by mixing a bit of the new food into your pet’s current food, for a ratio of 25 percent new food to 75 percent current food. After two to three days, if your pet isn’t experiencing any adverse effects, increase the ratio to 50/50. Increase the ratio to 75/25 after another two to three days, and then finally fully transition to the new formula. For step-by-step tips and troubleshooting, consult our veterinarian-written guide to switching foods.
Q: How often should I feed my senior dog?
A: Feeding schedules vary from pet to pet. However, for most dogs, twice a day is optimal, says Dr. Frankfurt. Leaving a full bowl of food for all-day grazing is almost never a good idea, she adds. “That is a surefire way to end up with an overweight animal,” she advises. If your pet seems to overeat because they simply eat the food too fast, she recommends purchasing a slow-feeder bowl that has obstructions built into.
Q: What food is good for senior dogs with digestive problems?
A: If your dog is experiencing digestive problems, first consult your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. As the digestive tract ages, many seniors experience issues such as constipation and diarrhea, which may be alleviated with a high-fiber dog food.
The Bottom Line
Caring for a senior dog requires a little extra effort, but is rewarded with a lot of extra love. Thanks to advances in nutrition and veterinary care—as well as good old-fashioned TLC!—our four-legged friends can enjoy happier, healthier golden years by our side. Ready to make the most of your days together? Check out these 12 expert tips for helping your senior dog live their best doggone life!
Expert input provided by Dr. Jessica Herman, DVM, a small-animal veterinarian based in Shelbyville, Kentucky, and Dr. Heather Frankfurt, DVM, a veterinarian at Hillside Veterinary Clinic in Dallas, Texas.
Get more advice for caring for senior dogs:
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