Best Senior Dog Food
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What’s the Best Food for Older Dogs?
As your dog’s muzzle begins to turn grey, you might find yourself asking… what’s the best dog food for a senior? We’ve done the research so you don’t have to.
On this page we’ll share the Dog Food Advisor’s best senior dog foods for 2026, verified and approved by our in-house pet nutritionist, Laura Ward.
Many of the outstanding senior recipes listed below were chosen by our research team because they contain:
- Above-average protein
- Below-average calories
- No high-risk preservatives
While others (like fresh and wet recipes) were selected because they’re soft and easy to chew… which makes each a safe option for dogs with missing teeth or other dental issues.
In addition, none is considered a repeat offender when it comes to deadly aflatoxin in its recent recall history, which makes each an ideal choice for older dogs.
Best Senior Dog Food March 2026
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for senior dogs for March 2026.
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Best Overall Food for Senior Dogs
The Farmer's Dog Turkey Recipe
Here’s an easy way to feed your senior pet a close-to-homemade meal… that’s perfectly balanced and designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Turkey Recipe is one of four fresh formulas rated in our review of the complete Farmer’s Dog product line.
This formula is human-grade and gets most of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.9% protein, 19.6% fat and 36.4% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
Unlike brands that use computer programs to verify their nutrient content…The Farmer’s Dog was tested using a method we consider superior to AAFCO’s own gold standard system… live feeding trials conducted on real dogs of multiple breed sizes and ages over a 6-year period.
Which makes this recipe a top pick for seniors of all breeds. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “The Farmer’s Dog is a range which utilises high quality protein sources and highly digestible ingredients in a fresh diet. For senior dogs which high protein diets are accepted, this is diet which utilises a combination of vegetables, salmon oil as a source of omega 3, and chelated minerals.”
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh and as close to home-made as you can get
- Tested at live feeding trials
Things to consider
- Premium price point
- Subscription only
- Requires freezing and refrigeration
Main Ingredients Turkey, chickpeas, carrots, broccoli, spinach Texture Fresh Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33.9% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Senior dogs, adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at thefarmersdog.com"Lola has put on a lot of weight in her old age, but since switching to TFD, she’s lost 10 lbs and is playing again! It's nothing short of miraculous."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Premium Food for Senior Dogs
Ollie Chicken with Carrots Dog Food
A veterinarian-designed meal that’s optimized for your dog’s age, weight, breed size and activity level. Made with 100% human-grade ingredients. Ollie chicken with carrots is one of four fresh recipes included in our review of the Ollie product line.
This Ollie recipe is human-grade and gets most of its meat protein from fresh chicken. The minimally processed food can help maintain energy, keep coats shiny, and support joint health, making it a good choice for senior dogs who need tailored nutrition for their age.
Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 11% fat and 44% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 30%.
An exceptional fresh canine diet. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Ollie is a range which utilises high quality protein sources and highly digestible ingredients in a fresh diet. For senior dogs which high protein diets are accepted, this is diet which utilises a combination of vegetables, salmon oil as a source of omega 3, and chelated minerals.”
Things we like
- Lean protein source
- High levels of omega 3 fatty acids
- Balanced fat content
Things to consider
- Premium price point
- Requires freezing and refrigeration
- Subscription only
Main Ingredients Chicken, carrots, peas, rice, chicken liver Texture Fresh Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 37% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs including puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"My 15 yr old Yorkie loves the chicken flavor and no longer needs an enticement to eat. I am so glad I tried this food."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Affordable Food for Senior Dogs
Wellness CORE Grain Free Age Advantage
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, senior diet that’s ideal for an older dog, look no further than Wellness CORE Grain Free Age Advantage. It’s one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.
Wellness CORE Grain Free Age Advantage derives the lion’s share of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37.5% protein, 15.6% fat and 38.1% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
CORE Age Advantage is a grain-free formula with guaranteed quantities of omega 3, glucosamine and chondroitin to support mobility… with optimal calories for weight control. A premium recipe for older dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness CORE Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Wellness CORE Senior uses fiber to support satiety and steady digestion. Functional ingredients such as prebiotics, probiotics, and antioxidants. Guaranteed quantities of omega 3, glucosamine and chondroitin, support mobility.”
Things we like
- Low calorie
- Omega rich salmon oil
- Added glucosamine and chondroitin
Things to consider
- Grain-free not suitable for all dogs
- Kibble size may not suit very small breeds
- Requires careful transition
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 37.5% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I transitioned my girl to this senior kibble in hopes of shedding some weight. It's been great. She loves it!"
What do pet parents think?
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Best Dry Food for Senior Dogs
Open Farm Grain Free Senior Turkey & Chicken Recipe
For a dry food that prioritises joint health and digestive comfort, Open Farm’s Senior Chicken and Turkey recipe is a standout. Supporting healthy joints and mobility for aging dogs, it’s one of 11 dry recipes represented in our review of the Open Farm Grain Free product line.
This formula gets most of its meat protein from turkey and chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34.4% protein, 13.9% fat and 43.7% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
Made with traceable, fresh ingredients and formulated to keep senior dogs mobile and active, it’s also notably gentle on sensitive digestive systems. A high-protein option made with fresh ingredients. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Open Farm Senior uses Green Lipped Mussel and DHA Omega 3 to support joint health and mobility. High quality protein is uses to aid digestibility. A combination of poultry and fish as sources of protein, with legumes are included.”
Things we like
- High in protein and low in fat
- Humanely raised meat sources
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin
Things to consider
- Higher price than standard dry foods
- Grain-free not suitable for some dogs
- Limited availability in some regions
Main Ingredients Turkey, chicken, sweet potato, ocean whitefish meal, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 34.4% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at openfarmpet.com"We have a senior dog who has a sensitive belly. His poops have been much better since we transitioned from his prescription dog food to Open Farm Senior. Whether its breakfast or dinner our senior eats it all up and doesn't even need a topping like stew...although we do sneak a little fresh chicken in there from time to time."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Wet Food for Senior Dogs
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior 7+ Chicken & Vegetable Dinner
For seniors who struggle with dry kibble, Blue Buffalo’s Homestyle Senior Chicken Dinner ticks all the right boxes.
It’s one of 11 wet recipes in our Blue Buffalo wet food review, with fresh chicken as the lead protein. Dry matter analysis delivers 36.5% protein, 28.8% fat and 23.8% estimated carbs — fat-to-protein ratio of around 79%.
It’s worth noting this senior design includes both glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. And the recipe is 100% free of corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
A top wet option for older dogs, especially those with dental problems or chewing issues. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Dog Food (Wet) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe utilises L-carnitine to support lean muscle in senior dogs, with glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate and omega fatty acid guarantees for mobility support.”
Things we like
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin
- Free from corn, wheat and soy
- No artificial flavors
Things to consider
- High fat content — may not suit overweight dogs
- Wet food generally costs more per calorie than dry
- Needs refrigeration once opened
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36.5% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"My senior pup (10 years old; small 10lb terrier mix; missing teeth) LOVES this food! She gets so excited when it's breakfast or dinner time, and she hops up and down knowing she gets to eat this food. It's a nice pate blend of chicken, peas and carrots, and it doesn't smell! Sometimes wet food can smell horrible, but this seemingly has no odor at all. I highly recommend."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Senior Dog Food for Weight Loss
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support
Managing weight and joint health simultaneously? Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support handles both. It’s featured in our full JustFoodForDogs review, and derives its primary protein from pork — naturally rich in all 10 essential amino acids dogs require. Dry matter analysis shows 33% protein, 5% fat and 55% carbs with a fat-to-protein ratio of just 15%.
A veterinarian-supported formula with type II collagen to support healthy joints for overweight older dogs. It’s one of eight dry recipes included in our review of the Just Food for Dogs Pantry Fresh product line.
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh uses a unique methodology, cooking ingredients at low heat, under pressure, inside the packaging. This protects the nutritional value and taste of the food. Vet-recommended and human-grade, it also includes type II collagen for joint support and can be stored unopened for up to two years.
Read our review of the full Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Just Food For Dogs Joint & Skin has a dry matter crude fat minimum of 5%, and a fat to protein ratio of 15%. Functional ingredients such as type II collagen aid joint health, and medium chain triglycerides support cognitive health in seniors. So the comments re the macronutrient profile and the FPR are still relevant. We can also say how the joint support is beneficial for overweight dogs – as excess weight puts extra strain on joints, so this support for seniors is two-fold.”
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Vet-developed recipes for specific health needs
- No preservatives
Things to consider
- Higher carbohydrate content than some alternatives
- Pork protein may not suit all dogs
- Premium pricing compared to standard wet foods
Main Ingredients Ground pork, quinoa, kale, carrots, fuji apples Texture Fresh Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at justfoodfordogs.com"My dog is 17 years old, a Shih-tzu, and was on the way to heaven. I just started him on this food and I have seen a HUGE improvement!!!! I thought I was going to have to let him go a week ago today, but he has had so much improvement that the vet said he absolutely doesn’t need to be put down?!?!? What a miracle from God!!! He has dementia, cancer, heart murmur, is blind, epilepsy and even died last year and brought back by a vet?!? This time however, I was told this was it 😢. Two weeks on this food already and the vets are absolutely stunned? Wow"
What do pet parents think?
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Best Senior Dog Food for Small Breeds
nowfresh Small Breed Senior Grain-Free Recipe with Turkey, Salmon & Duck
Small breed seniors have specific needs — smaller kibble, joint support, and controlled calories — and nowfresh’s Grain-Free Small Breed Senior Recipe is designed to deliver all three. This formula is one of 11 recipes in our review of the nowfresh dry dog food product line.
nowfresh recipes are crafted by pet nutrition experts, and this formula is designed specifically for small‑breed senior dogs to help them stay healthy and active in their later years. It includes glucosamine and chondroitin to support hip and joint health, and features moderate protein and fat levels to help maintain a healthy weight.
This dry formula derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27.7% protein, 14.1% fat and 44.2% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full nowfresh Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “NowFresh uses ingredients such as green lipped mussel to support joint health and sodium tripolyphosphate and green tea extract to help to reduce plaque build up. Dental health is a common issue in small breed dogs.”
Things we like
- Exceptional ingredient standards
- Small kibble that's perfect for tiny teeth and easy chewing
- Premium quality protein
Things to consider
- Moderate protein levels
- More expensive than standard kibble
- Relatively high fat
Main Ingredients De-boned turkey, potatoes, peas, potato flour, pea flour Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 27.7% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"My two dogs liked it. The size and texture is good for small senior dogs. We did not have any problems trying this. I would recommend this product."
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Best Senior Dog Food for Large Breeds
Diamond Naturals Senior Dog Chicken, Egg & Oatmeal Formula
Finding a senior formula that genuinely caters to larger breeds isn’t always easy — Diamond Naturals Senior does it without the premium price tag. It’s one of 13 recipes included in our review of Diamond Naturals Dry product line.
Diamond Naturals Senior Dog Chicken, Egg & Oatmeal Formula derives the lion’s share of its meat protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27.8% protein, 12.2% fat and 52% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
Diamond Naturals Senior has a kibble shape suitable for large breeds, with functional ingredients such as L-carnitine to support lean muscle, probiotics for microbiome support and joint support ingredients too.
An excellent choice for your big boy or girl.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Diamond Naturals Senior has a kibble shape suitable for large breeds, with functional ingredients such as L-carnitine to support lean muscle, probiotics for microbiome support and joint support ingredients too.”
Things we like
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joints
- Affordable
- Commitment to product safety
Things to consider
- Lower protein level than other picks on this list
- Higher carbohydrate content than grain-free
- Not suitable for seniors with chicken sensitivities
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 27.8% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"I have been using this for years. My Great Pyrenees is 15 and still going strong. He loves it."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
The Honest Kitchen Wholemade Whole Grain Beef, Oat and Salmon Recipe for Senior
Sensitive stomachs are one of the most common challenges in older dogs, and The Honest Kitchen’s Wholemade Whole Grain Beef, Oat and Salmon Recipe is specifically crafted to address that. It’s one of 12 formulas in our review of the dehydrated product line.
This particular food derives the bulk of its protein from beef, which provides essential amino acids that support muscle maintenance and overall health; crucial for aging dogs. Dry matter label analysis reveals it has a protein content of 29.9%, fat of 12.5% and an estimated carbohydrate level of 45.5%. The fat-to-protein ratio is 42%.
The recipe is crafted to help senior dogs age gracefully, with pumpkin and probiotics to support sensitive stomachs. As a dehydrated food, it can be rehydrated with water, which helps increase your dog’s fluid intake—important for overall health, especially in senior dogs.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Honest Kitchen Wholemade Dog Food (Dehydrated) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “The Honest Kitchen use a combination of ingredients which are generally well digested, such as oats, carrots and pumpkin, with beef, egg and salmon as the protein contribution. A probiotic is also included to support the gut health and digestion.”
Things we like
- Non-GMO produce
- Human-grade ingredients
- Gently dehydrated to maintain nutrients
Things to consider
- Requires hydration before serving
- Higher cost than standard kibble
- Moderate protein levels
Main Ingredients Beef, oats, barley, flaxseed, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 29.9% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at thehonestkitchen.com"My senior dog seems to love and also more content after dinner, rather than begging and acting starved."
What do pet parents think?
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Best Senior Dog Food for a Picky Eater
Chicken Soup for the Soul Classic Mature Chicken, Turkey and Duck
Persuading a fussy senior to eat can feel like a daily battle — this recipe helps tip the odds in your favour. Classic Mature Paté is one of 14 wet recipes featured in our Chicken Soup for the Soul canned review.
This finely-chopped senior formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34.6% protein, 19.2% fat and 36.5% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
We like the fact this classic wet design contains no corn, wheat or soy and that it’s 100% free of artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. And the super-fine texture makes it ideal for dogs with missing teeth or dental problems.
A top wet food ideal for picky seniors. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Chicken Soup for the Soul Classic Dog Food (Canned) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Chicken Soup for the Soul Mature contains a combination of five animal and fish ingredients, to support the palatability, as well as the nutrition provided. To support senior dog health, L-carnitine support lean muscle maintenance, inulin supports gut health and yucca extract helps to reduce stool odours. Omega 3 is delivered from the fish ingredients to support brain health, mobility and vision.”
Things we like
- No corn, wheat or soy
- Free from artificial flavors or preservatives
- Super-fine pate texture
Things to consider
- Fat content on the higher side
- Wet-only diets can be more costly
- Limited recipe variety within the senior range
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, turkey broth, turkey, chicken liver Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 34.6% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"My dog likes it. She's a picky eater. I like that it's full of veggies and vitamins. Also minerals."
How we review dog foods
We read the label.
This may sound simple, but there are thousands of dog foods on the market, and the label is the only source of reliable, standardized and government-regulated data available on every one of them. This includes the AAFCO nutrient profile, the Guaranteed Analysis and the ingredients.
We use our algorithm.
We take the data and enter it into our unique algorithm to produce a different set of figures, including the Dry Matter Analysis (the nutrient levels after water has been removed). This algorithm gives us a base score range on our five-star rating system.
We refine the score.
We take into account other factors, such as the quality of ingredients and the nature of the first few ingredients on the list (and therefore the most prevalent in the food), and narrow the score. The key ingredients are explained in-depth in the review.
Our expert nutritionist takes over.
At this point, our expert pet nutritionist, Laura Ward, goes through the review to check and approve it. She has the authority to make small discretionary changes to the star-rating based on her judgment of a food. We now have our final star-rating.
What other information do we include for dog parents?
Each dog food review includes sample consumer reviews and links to other reviews. It also includes the brand’s recall history. Our Best Dog Food pages also include consumer reviews.
Why we don’t just feed foods to our dogs.
Despite what other dog food review sites claim, simply giving a food to a dog and seeing if they eat it is completely unscientific and has little value as a review method. If you give a kid candy, they’ll happily eat it, but it doesn’t mean it’s good for them. And no one food suits every dog.
It’s also dangerous for dogs. We rate every dog food, good and bad. Why would we deliberately feed a dog bad dog food?
That said, we understand that personal experience of a food is important to dog parents and include consumer reviews on our pages.
What about lab-testing dog food?
Lab-testing dog food can provide useful, in-depth information, but as mentioned, there are thousands of dog foods on the market. We’d love to test them all, but there isn’t a facility in the country that could. Therefore, it’s impossible to have a fair universal rating system using lab tests.
It’s worth noting that dog food brands carry out their own testing. This ensures compliance with AAFCO and FDA pet food standards, as well as checking for pathogens.
Why you should trust our dog food reviews
Dog Food Advisor has been impartially reviewing dog food since 2008. We are the most trusted dog food review site in the United States, with a 4.9-star TrustPilot rating.
Here's why:
We do not accept money, gifts, samples or any other incentives in exchange for special consideration in writing our reviews.
We rate every dog food in the same way, using the only information we believe is equally available for all foods, reliable and therefore fair: what’s on the label. It’s the only way for any review site to rate every dog food on the market.
We focus on ingredients, nutrient profiles and recipes. We look at the ingredients used, including their quality, and review the nutritional analysis and macronutrient balance. We take into account any controversial or harmful ingredients.
Every review is expertly checked and approved by our highly qualified in-house animal nutritionist, Laura Ward.
We report all dog food and dog treat recalls through our Dog Food Recall Alert service, no matter the brand.
For more information, read our How We Rate Dog Food and Disclaimer and Disclosure pages.
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to switch to a senior food without making your dog sick
In this video…
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help lower your dog’s risk of getting sick when you switch your senior to a new food.
When is a dog considered a senior?
Not all dogs get grey hair around their muzzles. In fact, many are as playful as a puppy for their entire lives.
In fact…
You may have noticed that small dogs seem to age more slowly than large dogs. It’s true. A small dog can live to be as old as 20 years. But a large dog can reach maturity much sooner.
So, how do you know when your dog has entered her golden years?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association…1
“…small dogs are generally considered senior at 7 years of age. Larger breed dogs tend to have shorter life spans… and are often considered senior when they are 5 to 6 years of age.”
Of course, all dogs are different. A healthy diet, regular exercise and good dental care can help extend your dog’s middle age phase.
How old is my dog in human years?
Larger dogs age at a faster rate than smaller dogs. So, use the American Kennel Club chart below to discover your dog’s age in human years.
Do older dogs need more protein... or less?
Despite what you may have heard…
An older dog needs more protein in her diet than a younger dog. That’s because (like humans), seniors need to replace wasting muscle mass as they age.
What’s more…
A dog food rich in meat-based protein will not strain a healthy, older dog’s kidneys. However, if your dog has already been diagnosed with kidney disease, be sure to ask your vet about prescribing an appropriate diet.
Although adult dog foods can legally contain as little as 18%, all our recommended senior brands above contain at least 27% protein.
Should all older dogs eat senior food?
No. In most cases, that’s not necessary. In fact, if your older dog is healthy and eating a quality, balanced diet, there’s no reason to switch to a senior dog food.
Just be sure the food you’re currently feeding contains an above-average amount of meat-based protein and moderate calories.
What's the #1 cause of food-related illness in seniors?
Although it contributes to health issues in dogs of all ages…
Obesity is the #1 cause of chronic disease and premature death in seniors.
Extra weight means your dog’s joints have to work harder… and they may already be inflamed from arthritis, hip dysplasia or a luxated knee cap.
Unfortunately, dogs are naturally more prone to obesity as they age. According to the National Research Council of the National Academy of Science…2
“Because of decreased physical activity and slowed metabolism, older dogs need 20% fewer total calories than do middle-aged adult dogs.”
So, a low calorie food can help your dog lose or maintain her weight without feeling hungry all the time.
How much food should I feed my senior dog?
Since every animal is unique…
It’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “perfect” for each dog… and each brand.
So, start with the package’s feeding instructions… or the amount suggested by our dog food calculator. If you use the calculator, be sure to use the “senior” setting to estimate an appropriate serving size for your older dog.
Either method will work because you’re using it only as a starting point.
Then, over time…
Adjust that serving size up or down to reach and maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
How do I determine my dog's ideal weight?
Keeping your senior at ideal weight can help you significantly extend your pet’s life.
A 14-year landmark study found that…
Dogs fed to ideal body condition lived 1.8 years longer than their overweight litter mates.
That’s nearly 2 extra years of life…
Just for keeping your dog close to her ideal weight based on her Body Condition Score. This process is explained in the following short video.
Remember, every dog is different. If you’re feeding the recommended amount, but your dog is not losing weight (or if she’s always hungry), you may need to make some adjustments.
Talk to your vet if you’re unsure of your dog’s ideal weight and body condition.
What can I do to satisfy my picky eater?
One way to enhance your dog’s appetite is to add tasty “toppers” to her food. Mixing a few tablespoons of a quality canned food to your dog’s kibble can help.
Fresh, raw or cooked chicken or beef can also get your dog to drool over their meals again. Eggs are another popular appetizer… scrambled or boiled with no salt, oil or seasonings, of course.
Toppers can safely make up about 10-20% of your dog’s diet. You’ll need to be mindful of added calories and nutrients.
Final word
The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.
