Senior Dog Food Buyer’s Guide
As a dog ages, it becomes susceptible to illnesses and medical conditions. As you’ve learned from the products featured above, dog food that is made specifically for older dogs helps it manage the physical changes it has to go through.
Although not all pets require a massive change in their diet or nutritional composition, there are a couple of nutrient adjustments you’ll find that can benefit our senior pooches and they include the following:
Added Joint Supplements
As a canine age, it develops arthritis, especially if it is overweight. Make sure that your senior dog’s diet includes chondroitin and/or glucosamine to deal with arthritis symptoms and soothe its pain. Also, you should consider getting dog food with a high concentration of Omega-3 and Omega–6 fatty acids. These nutrients are scientifically proven to minimize joint inflammation.
Higher Protein Content
An older dog’s protein reserves get depleted quickly compared to when it was younger. Just like humans, senior dogs also lose muscle mass gradually. That being said, a senior dog needs food that is rich in protein not just to replenish its protein reserves but also to make up for lost muscle mass. It is advisable for a dog’s diet to have 75 grams or more of protein per thousand calories.
Still, you need to be cautious when you increase your dog’s protein intake. You have to ensure that its food contains a low level of phosphorous as it is detrimental to a dog’s health, most especially if it already has kidney problems. Basically, increase the protein intake whilst ensuring phosphorous is low in what the dog is eating.
High Digestibility
The digestive systems of dogs change as they age. You may have noticed that your aging dog now has food allergies, pancreatitis, or inflammatory bowel disease. If your dog is starting to get sensitive, then only get food that is made of organic ingredients. Avoid wheat, soy, and corn as well.
You can also opt for dog food with probiotics and digestive enzymes as they will ensure your dog has regular bowel movements and a healthy digestive system.
Vitamins & Minerals
Vitamins and minerals boost the immune system of your dog and keep it disease-free. Before you purchase any dog food, check the ingredients list to make sure these essential elements are included.
Bonus: For a dog that's suffering from constipation, dog food that's high in fiber will help. Still, be cautious as too much fiber will compromise the animal's ability to absorb all the other essential nutrients.
