The Wise Wag Week 4 - Senior Dog Diet Tips

Hi fellow animal lover,

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change — just like ours do. That super fast puppy metabolism? It might slow down. Those extra treats? They start sticking a little more. And their digestive system? It’s not as forgiving as it once was.

A senior-friendly diet can help maintain a healthy weight, support brain function, and ease digestion, giving your dog the best quality of life and help extend their lifespan.

What to Look for in Senior Dog Food

High-Quality Protein: Senior dogs benefit from increased high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle mass.
Balanced Fat Content: Moderate fat levels provide essential fatty acids and energy while helping prevent unnecessary weight gain.
Adequate Fiber: Incorporating appropriate fiber levels aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight, along with preventing constipation.
Joint Support Nutrients: Ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health, promoting mobility in aging dogs.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for joint health, coat and skin, and overall well-being.
Probiotics: Not only can pre and probiotics help aid digestion, but they give a boost to your dog's immune system.

Tips from a veterinarian on choosing the best senior dog diet

Other Adjustments to Your Dog’s Diet

🍽 Watch Their Portions – Metabolism slows down with age, meaning fewer calories are needed. Keep an eye on their body condition and adjust food intake to prevent obesity or muscle loss.

🍽 Support Brain Health – MCT oil and DHA-rich foods (found in fish oil and senior dog diets like Purina Bright Mind) can help keep your pup’s brain sharp and reduce cognitive decline.

🍽 Improve Digestion with Probiotics – A senior dog’s gut microbiome can change, leading to sensitive stomachs, gas, or irregular bowel movements. Adding a probiotic supplement or feeding plain pumpkin or kefir can keep their tummy happy.

If you’re thinking about switching foods, introduce changes slowly over 7–10 days to avoid tummy troubles. And as always, check with your vet before making major dietary adjustments.

How to change your dog's food without causing diarrhea

Coming up next week: We’ll be diving into separation anxiety in senior dogs. If your pup suddenly seems more distressed when you leave, you’re not alone—aging dogs can develop new fears and anxieties. We’ll cover why this happens and how to help them feel more secure when home alone.

To keep up with our latest, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.