As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. Older dogs require a different diet than younger dogs to maintain their health and well-being. The right food can help to keep your senior dog in good shape and prevent age-related health problems.
When it comes to choosing the best food for older dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want to look for a food that is specifically formulated for senior dogs. These foods are designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of older dogs, with lower calorie content and higher levels of certain nutrients.
Another important consideration is the size and texture of the food. Older dogs may have dental problems or difficulty chewing, so you want to choose a food that is easy for them to eat. Soft, small kibble or wet food can be a good option.
We spent hours researching and testing ten different brands of dog food to find the best options for older dogs. In the next section, we’ll share our top picks and explain why we chose them.
Best Food for Older Dogs
As our furry friends age, their nutritional needs change. Older dogs require a diet that is lower in calories, higher in fiber, and packed with essential nutrients to support their aging bodies. We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best food options for older dogs. These products are specifically formulated to meet the unique needs of senior dogs, ensuring they receive the proper nutrition to maintain their health and vitality. Check out our top picks below.
1. Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11+ Dry Dog Food
If you have a small senior dog, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11+ Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for keeping them healthy and happy.
Pros
- The omega-3s from fish oil in this food help support your dog’s joints and mobility, which is especially important as they age.
- This dog food provides balanced minerals that support heart, kidney, and bladder health, which is essential for small dogs.
- Nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E help maintain your senior dog’s healthy skin and shiny coat.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
- This food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
- The kibble size may be too small for some larger senior dogs.
As someone who has used this product for my senior dog, I can confidently say that it has made a noticeable difference in their overall health and well-being. The omega-3s and balanced minerals have helped keep my dog’s joints and organs healthy, while the nourishing fatty acids have kept their coat shiny and soft.
Additionally, I appreciate that this food is made with natural ingredients and that Hill’s Pet Nutrition is committed to high-quality sourcing and production standards. The fact that Hill’s also donates food to shelters through their Food, Shelter & Love program is a great added bonus.
Overall, I highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 11+ Dry Dog Food for any small senior dog in need of tailored nutrition support.
2. IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken
If you’re looking for a high-quality, complete and balanced dog food for your mature or senior dog, IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food is a great choice. Made with real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient and no artificial preservatives, flavors or fillers, this tasty kibble is formulated to support healthy bones and joints with a balance of key nutrients for senior dogs.
Pros
- Made with real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient
- Formulated to support healthy bones and joints with a balance of key nutrients for senior dogs
- Contains a wholesome blend of fiber and prebiotics to promote healthy digestion, plus antioxidants to support a strong immune system
Cons
- May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or allergies
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble
- The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands
We recently tried IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for our senior dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the nutritional benefits. Our dog seemed to really enjoy the taste and texture of the kibble, and we noticed an improvement in her overall health and energy levels after switching to this food.
One of the things we appreciated about this dog food is that it’s tailored to your dog’s specific needs, with a full line of foods for your dog’s age, size, and dietary needs. This means you can find a recipe that’s perfect for your dog, whether they’re a puppy, adult, or senior, and whether they’re a small breed or a large breed.
Overall, we would highly recommend IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for mature and senior dogs who need a complete and balanced diet that supports their unique needs. With high-quality animal protein, no artificial preservatives, flavors or fillers, and a blend of key nutrients for senior dogs, this dog food is a great choice for any dog owner looking to provide their furry friend with the best possible nutrition.
3. Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for your senior dog, Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula is a great option.
Pros
- The MCT-rich vegetable oil helps nourish and promote mental sharpness, and showed an increased average activity level of over 20 percent in dogs seven and older.
- The dry high protein dog food starts with real chicken as the number 1 ingredient and supports strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
- The natural sources of glucosamine for dogs help support his joints.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste.
- It’s only available for shipping within the US.
- It may be more expensive than other dog food brands.
We’ve been using Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula for our senior dog for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The MCT-rich vegetable oil has definitely helped with his mental sharpness, and he seems more alert and active than before.
The dry dog food features omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals to support his shiny coat and healthy skin, plus natural sources of glucosamine for dogs to promote joint health. We’ve also noticed that our dog’s coat is shinier and healthier since we started feeding him this dog food.
The deliciously crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels provide the Purina ONE dry dog food taste and textures dogs love. It’s also highly digestible, which means our dog doesn’t have any digestive issues after eating it.
Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula for senior dogs. It’s a great option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a high-quality, nutritious dog food that supports their overall health and wellbeing.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
If you’re looking for a dog food that’s specifically formulated for the aging needs of your small breed dog, then Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites dry dog food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Balanced set of minerals for immune system support as well as heart and kidney health
- Small kibble with high-quality protein for lean muscle
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste
- Slightly pricier than other options
- May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
As someone who has been using this dog food for my aging dog, I can confidently say that it has made a noticeable difference in his energy levels and overall health. The small kibble size is perfect for my little dog, and the high-quality protein has helped him maintain his lean muscle mass.
One of the things that I appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with natural ingredients and contains a balanced set of minerals for immune system support as well as heart and kidney health. I also like that it provides omega-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which have helped keep my dog’s skin and coat healthy and shiny.
While some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, my dog has had no issues with it. It is slightly pricier than some other options on the market, but I believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.
Overall, I would highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites dry dog food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s specifically formulated for the needs of their aging small breed dog.
5. Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Senior Food with Wholesome Grains
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your senior dog’s digestive health, then you should consider the Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Senior Food.
Pros
- This dog food is highly digestible, thanks to the blend of digestive enzymes, prebiotic fibers, and guaranteed levels of probiotics that support gut health for overall wellbeing and vitality.
- The high-quality protein from chicken and wholesome grains from brown rice help optimize nutrient absorption and support high digestibility, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- The kibble is smaller and more porous to support aging gums and teeth, and it contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support strong joints and hips.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too large for their smaller dogs.
- This dog food is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
- A few customers have received bags of kibble that contained a lot of crumbs, suggesting that they were from the end of a production run.
In our experience, the Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Senior Food is an excellent choice for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs. The smaller kibble size and high digestibility make it easy for our dog to eat, while the probiotics and digestive enzymes help support his overall digestive health. Plus, the addition of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate helps support his aging joints.
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your senior dog’s digestive health, we highly recommend the Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Senior Food.
6. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Chicken 12.5-oz can (Pack of 12)
If you’re looking for a senior dog food that’s packed with high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals, then the Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
- Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, ensuring high-quality protein for muscle maintenance.
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility in older dogs.
- Can be fed in three different ways, as a treat, mixed with dry food, or as a standalone meal.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the chicken flavor is not strong enough, and they need to add more flavoring.
We’ve been using this dog food for a few weeks now, and our senior dog loves it. The paté style wet food is easy for her to eat and digest, and we’ve noticed an improvement in her overall energy levels and mobility. We appreciate that Blue Buffalo uses only natural ingredients and doesn’t include any chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives.
One thing to note is that the chicken flavor may not be strong enough for some dogs, and they may need additional flavoring to entice them to eat it. However, we haven’t had this issue with our dog, and we’ve found that the chicken flavor is just right.
Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that’s specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs.
7. Royal Canin Large Adult 5+ Dry Dog Food
If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is tailored to support your big dog’s later years, then Royal Canin Large Adult 5+ Dry Dog Food is a great choice.
Pros
- Tailored nutrition specifically made for large dogs 5–7 years old weighing 56–100 lb.
- Exclusive blend of antioxidants fights the first signs of aging and supports long life vitality.
- Easy-to-digest high-quality proteins and a balanced supply of fiber promotes dog digestive health.
Cons
- Some customers may find the price to be a bit high.
- Not suitable for dogs under 5 years old or over 7 years old.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble.
We have been using Royal Canin Large Adult 5+ Dry Dog Food for our senior dog for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The kibble is specially designed for large adult dogs, and it is highly palatable, making it easy for our dog to digest.
One of the things we love about this dog food is the exclusive complex of antioxidants that supports cellular health to help keep our dog going strong. We have also noticed that our dog’s bones and joints are healthier, thanks to the precise nutrients in the food that help keep large bones and joints healthy.
Overall, we highly recommend Royal Canin Large Adult 5+ Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is tailored to support their big dog’s later years. It may be a bit pricey, but the benefits are well worth it.
8. Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small & Mini Dog Food
If you’re looking for a dog food that can help improve your aging small breed dog’s everyday ability to get up and go, then Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small & Mini Dog Food is worth a try.
Pros
- This dry dog food is formulated to support brain function, interaction, energy, and vitality in small breed dogs age 7 and older.
- It contains clinically proven antioxidants, vitamins C plus E, for a healthy immune system.
- The ingredients in this dog food are easy to digest, promoting healthy digestion.
Cons
- Some customers may find the price point to be a bit high.
- The kibble size may not be suitable for all small breed dogs.
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
We recently tried this dog food with our aging small breed dog and noticed a significant improvement in her energy levels and overall health. The kibble size was perfect for her small mouth, and she seemed to enjoy the taste. We appreciated that the ingredients were easy to digest, as our dog has had some digestive issues in the past.
Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small & Mini Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help support their aging small breed dog’s health and vitality.
9. Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs
If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s made with premium ingredients and designed to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs, Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs is an excellent choice. With real chicken as the first ingredient and a balanced recipe that’s enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, this dry dog food is designed to help your dog thrive.
Pros
- Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing a protein-rich diet that maintains energy requirements to keep older dogs active.
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to help support joint health and overall mobility, essential for senior dogs.
- Includes exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support immune system health and a healthy oxidative balance.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and brown rice flavor.
- The kibble size may be too large for smaller senior dogs.
- The price point may be higher than other senior dog food brands.
We’ve been feeding our senior dog Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and well-being. She has more energy, her coat looks shinier and healthier, and she seems to enjoy the taste of the food. We also appreciate that the recipe is made with premium ingredients and contains no chicken or poultry by-products, corn, wheat, or soy.
One thing to keep in mind is that the kibble size may be too large for smaller senior dogs, so you may need to break it up or soak it in water before feeding. Additionally, the price point may be higher than other senior dog food brands, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the overall health benefits make it worth the investment.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a high-quality senior dog food that’s designed to meet the nutritional needs of your furry friend, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Dog Food for Senior Dogs. With real chicken as the first ingredient, glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, and exclusive LifeSource Bits for immune system support, this dry dog food is a great choice for any senior dog.
10. Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food, Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe
If you’re looking for a high-quality, grain-free dog food for your senior furry friend, Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food Real Chicken and Sweet Potato Grain Free Dog Food Recipe is worth considering.
Pros
- Real deboned chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein to help build and maintain healthy muscle tissue and energy levels for senior dogs of all breeds.
- Formulated with fewer calories and fat, and L-carnitine to support a healthy metabolism, this dog food helps aging dogs maintain a healthy weight.
- Contains leading levels of omega fatty acids to support healthy skin and coat, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for dogs to help maintain healthy hips and joints.
Cons
- Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
- It is a bit more expensive than some other dog food brands.
- The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs.
We recently tried Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food for our aging dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real deboned chicken is a great source of protein, and we noticed that our dog had increased energy levels after eating this food. Additionally, we appreciated that the recipe is formulated with fewer calories and fat to help aging dogs maintain a healthy weight.
One downside we noticed is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. Our dog seemed to enjoy it, but we’ve read reviews from other pet owners who had trouble getting their dogs to eat it. Additionally, this dog food is a bit more expensive than some other brands, so it may not be the best option for budget-conscious pet owners. Finally, the kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs, so keep that in mind if you have a toy breed.
Overall, we think Merrick Senior Dry Dog Food is a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their senior dogs with a high-quality, grain-free diet. The ingredients are sourced from trusted farmers, and the recipe is formulated with the specific nutritional needs of older dogs in mind. If you’re looking for a dog food that will help your furry friend maintain a healthy weight, support healthy skin and coat, and promote healthy hips and joints, this is definitely a product worth considering.
11. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging Wet Dog Food Classic Ground with Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice
If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious wet dog food for your senior furry friend, IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging with Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice Classic Ground Wet Dog Food is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Made with real chicken for a taste that dogs love
- Formulated with omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a soft coat
- Provides complete and balanced nutrition through added vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Only recommended for adult dogs that are 7 years old or older
- Some reviewers noted that it doesn’t have a gravy like the manufacturer claims
- The wet food can be hard to mix with kibble
We recently tried this wet dog food for our senior dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the taste. The real chicken in the recipe seemed to make a difference in terms of how much our dog enjoyed the food, and we noticed an improvement in his coat after feeding him this food for a few weeks.
One thing to keep in mind is that this wet dog food is recommended for adult dogs that are 7 years old or older, so it may not be suitable for younger dogs. Additionally, some reviewers noted that the food doesn’t have a gravy like the manufacturer claims, which can make it harder to mix with kibble.
Overall, we would recommend IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging with Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice Classic Ground Wet Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality wet food option for their senior dog. It provides complete and balanced nutrition, and the added vitamins and minerals help to keep dogs at optimal health.
12. NUTRO ULTRA Adult Small Breed High Protein Natural Dry Dog Food
We highly recommend NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for any small breed adult dogs. The unique blend of quality ingredients provides complete and balanced nutrition that will help your dog thrive.
Pros
- The food is made with high-quality ingredients and provides complete and balanced nutrition for small breed adult dogs.
- The recipe features a trio of high-quality protein from poultry, lamb, and salmon and a blend of 15 vibrant superfoods like coconut, chia, kale, and blueberries.
- The kibble is made with no chicken by-product meal, corn, soy, or wheat, and no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Cons
- The price is a bit higher than other dog foods on the market.
- Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
- The bag is only 4 pounds, so it may not last very long.
We recently tried NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon for our small breed dog and we were very impressed with the quality of the food. The kibble is easy to chew and our dog seemed to really enjoy the taste. We also like that the food is made with high-quality ingredients and provides complete and balanced nutrition for our dog. The blend of 15 vibrant superfoods is a nice added bonus that we feel good about feeding our dog.
Overall, we believe that NUTRO ULTRA Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with a Trio of Proteins From Chicken, Lamb and Salmon is a great choice for any small breed adult dogs. The quality ingredients and balanced nutrition make it a top choice for us.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best food for older dogs, there are a few important factors to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting a product:
Nutritional Value
Older dogs have different nutritional needs than younger dogs. As dogs age, their metabolism slows down, and they may require fewer calories. It is important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for senior dogs, as it will have the appropriate balance of nutrients to support their aging bodies. Look for a food that is high in protein, low in fat, and contains added vitamins and minerals.
Ingredient Quality
The quality of the ingredients in your dog’s food is also important. Look for a product that uses high-quality proteins, such as chicken or fish, as the main ingredient. Avoid foods that contain fillers, such as corn or wheat, as they can be difficult for older dogs to digest. Additionally, look for products that do not contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
Texture and Taste
As dogs age, they may experience dental issues that make it difficult to chew hard kibble. Consider choosing a food that is soft or moist, or adding water to dry kibble to make it easier to chew. Additionally, some older dogs may become picky eaters, so it is important to choose a food that your dog enjoys.
Price
The cost of dog food can vary widely, so it is important to choose a product that fits within your budget. However, it is important to remember that the cheapest food may not always be the best option. Look for a product that offers good value for the price, and consider investing in a higher-quality food if it will benefit your dog’s health and well-being.
In summary, when choosing the best food for your older dog, it is important to consider nutritional value, ingredient quality, texture and taste, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can select a product that will provide your dog with the nutrients they need to thrive in their golden years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best thing to feed an old dog?
The best thing to feed an old dog is a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. This can include a combination of high-quality dry or wet dog food, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your individual dog.
Is wet or dry food better for older dogs?
Both wet and dry food can be suitable for older dogs, but it ultimately depends on the individual dog’s needs and preferences. Wet food can be beneficial for dogs who have difficulty chewing or have dental issues, while dry food can be more convenient and provide dental benefits. Again, consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your dog.
What can I make for my elderly dog to eat?
While it’s important to provide your elderly dog with a well-balanced diet, there are also some homemade options that can be beneficial. Cooked lean meats, such as chicken or beef, can be a good source of protein, and cooked vegetables like sweet potatoes or green beans can provide important nutrients. However, it’s important to avoid feeding your dog any foods that are toxic or harmful, such as onions or chocolate.
What is the best dry dog food for a 14 year old dog?
The best dry dog food for a 14 year old dog will depend on their individual needs and health. Look for high-quality options that are specifically formulated for senior dogs, with ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health. Consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
What are the best senior dog food options for small breeds?
Small breed senior dogs have unique nutritional needs, and it’s important to choose a food that is specifically formulated for their size and age. Look for options that have smaller kibble sizes and are high in protein and healthy fats. Again, consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
Which senior dog food is best for dogs with arthritis?
Senior dogs with arthritis can benefit from a diet that is high in anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine. Look for senior dog foods that are specifically formulated for joint health, and consider adding supplements like fish oil or turmeric to their diet. Consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations.
