The Top 5 Dry Dog Foods For Older Dogs

 

Older dogs are like people in many ways. They slow down, they suffer from aches and pains, and they need to change their diets to reflect their age. Obesity, arthritis and appetite loss will torment older dogs, especially large breeds. While there is not a single treatment or lifestyle change that will help every dog, there are some tips that you can use to make your older dog's life a bit better.

Older Dogs Actually Need More Protein

One common misunderstood idea is the role of protein in an older dog's diet. Too many pet owners think that protein should be reduced in a diet as their dog ages when, in fact, more protein should be added. The American Kennel Club recommends that you increase the amount of protein in your pet's diet by up to 50% as they get old. Other factors that need to be addressed in your aging pet's diet will be obesity and diseases. Like humans, if your pet has maintained a good weight during their younger years, they probably will avoid obesity in their golden years. While you need to watch their calories while they are young it becomes more important later in life. Work with your vet to make sure you aren't overfeeding, or underfeeding, your pet. A good dog food can also help your pet avoid or fend off certain diseases. Some health issues may require a prescription diet but often your pet will receive plenty of vitamins and nutrients in their usual dog food. Read the labels carefully and make sure that the food used is low in fillers and high in nutritional supplements.

The 5 Best Foods For Older Dogs

1. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Natural Senior Dog Food

Blue Buffalo is known for having some of the best natural pet foods on the market. Their line of foods aimed at older dogs is excellent. There is plenty of protein from meat sources, no fillers and fruits and vegetables to round out the texture and flavor. This food also has a very nice balance of nutrients and vitamins added naturally.

#2 Purina Pro Plan With Probiotics Senior Dog Food

Purina is not always mentioned when pet owners talk about natural pet foods, and that's a shame. While they may be associated with big bags of inexpensive dog food, they actually make some excellent healthy dog food for older dogs. This recipe is high in protein and is fortified with probiotics to help with digestion and nutrition. You love your pet and want only the best food for them.

#3 Royal Canin Dry Dog Food For Older Dogs

Royal Canin has a very well deserved reputation with vets and breeders for producing high quality, healthy dog food. Their foods for older dogs use chicken as the protein source and as the main flavor. Royal Canin also uses antioxidants to boost the health benefits of their foods.

#4 IAMS Adult Dry Dog Good With Chicken

It seems like IAMS is everywhere. It can be found in pet stores, discount centers, garden centers and grocery stores. One reason for that is price, another reason is that they produce some fine dog foods. Their line of foods for older dogs use chicken as the protein source with added probiotics and nutrients. Most dogs love the smaller kibble sized bites that this food comes in.

#5 Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Senior Dog Food

Wellness packs a bit of everything into their senior dog foods. Not only is there a high amount of protein but there also are some additives, glucosamine and chondroitin, that are designed to help your pet's joints. This is a natural pet food with no preservatives and no artificial flavors or preservatives.