Just like us, dogs go through different stages of life: childhood, adulthood and old age. A lot tends to change during these phases, especially physically. And with that, as food is the fuel for our bodies, it also goes through transformations.
In our last blog, we talked about the best choices of senior food. However, many owners of senior dogs have questions about the best food for senior dogs, not necessarily pet food.
What is the nutrition of an elderly dog like?
As dogs get older, changes occur in the body and metabolism, such as loss of muscle mass, a drop in immunity and a reduction in enzyme activity. All this makes it harder for the body to maintain the energy it needs on a daily basis.
A study of adult dogs found that they need 20% fewer calories to maintain the same weight as when they were younger. It is therefore common to see a drop in appetite. But protein and balanced nutrition are still very important for the elderly dog.
Quality protein helps preserve muscles and prevent sarcopenia (muscle loss). In addition, it is important that the dog is eating fiber for intestinal health. Premium senior dog food covers all these important aspects.
In addition, if your pet has diseases such as diabetes, kidney or heart problems, nutrition needs to be even more personalized - always with veterinary advice.
If you notice that your dog isn't eating, it's important to take him to the vet. Although a slight drop in appetite can be common with ageing, it is not normal for an elderly dog to develop anorexia.
The same goes for the opposite: if he is overeating and gaining weight quickly, this should also be investigated.
What to give an elderly dog to eat?
It depends on the pet's health and behavior. But in general, good options include:
- Senior food: formulated with what they really need.
- Wet food or porridge: to make chewing easier.
- Balanced homemade food: only on veterinary prescription.
- Natural supplements (in small quantities): shredded chicken, rice, boiled vegetables without seasoning - always as part of a nutritional plan recommended by a specialist.
Can you give human food to an elderly dog?
The right advice should always come from a vet. This is because ordinary dog food should be administered with great care, as there are various foods that we consume that can be toxic and even fatal for them, such as raisins, chocolate, etc.
Recommendations:
- Always consult a veterinary nutritionist.
- Use professionally formulated recipes.
- Don't improvise substitutions.
- Never use spices, onions or garlic (they are toxic!).
- Store and sanitize correctly.
Can you give rice to an elderly dog?
If the vet has cleared it, yes. However, the common recommendation is that rice should be cooked, without seasoning and in small quantities. It should also be accompanied by some nutrient-rich food or feed.
Rice is easy to digest and can help dogs with gastrointestinal problems. But it is no substitute for food or a formulated diet. And beware: dogs with diabetes or obesity need to be evaluated first.
How to prepare a diet for an elderly dog?
"Dieting" can have two meanings when we talk about elderly dogs: weight control to lose weight or providing more energy for those who are thin or weak.
If the dog is overweight:
Reduce daily portions, based on the guidelines on the food label or as advised by the vet. Avoid high-calorie snacks and only offer natural, light snacks if necessary. Encourage short, frequent walks, respecting the elderly person's limits.
Check with your vet about switching to a light senior food, if recommended.
Now if the dog is thin or weak:
Increase the calories in your diet by including more energizing or palatable foods. Divide food into more portions throughout the day, making it easier to digest and consume.
The vet may recommend hypercaloric or vitamin supplements, depending on the clinical picture.
Professional support is essential for both weight loss and weight regain.
Elderly dog with weak legs
Weakness in the hind legs is common in elderly dogs and can have different causes:
- Loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia).
- Joint pain, such as arthritis or dysplasia.
- Neurological changes linked to age or specific diseases.
Feeding can help, involving high-quality protein to maintain the muscles, introducing supplements such as omega-3, chondroprotectors, calcium, vitamin D. Of course, all if the vet deems it necessary.
But beware: diet alone won't do the trick.
For a good result, the ideal is to combine them:
- Precise veterinary diagnosis
- Treatment with medication, if necessary
- Physiotherapy or supervised exercises adapted to the pet's physical condition
The aim is to relieve pain, improve mobility and make everyday life more comfortable.
Why is good nutrition so important in old age?
The way dogs eat in old age directly influences their health, well-being and longevity.
See the main benefits of proper nutrition:
- It prevents chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart problems.
- Maintains muscle mass, preventing weakness and loss of mobility.
- It helps with weight control, which reduces stress on the joints.
- It supports the brain, kidneys, joints and immune system.
- It improves the animal's quality of life, mood and even its disposition.
Most importantly, balanced nutrition can prolong life with greater health and dignity.
Have you heard of PetMoreTime?
If you're concerned about your elderly dog's nutrition and health, perhaps it's time you got to know PetMoreTime.
This is a canine longevity program, with individualized veterinary care, which combines science, nutrition, supplementation and ongoing care to help your dog live longer - and healthier.
