When to Switch to Senior Dog Food? 4 Vet-Reviewed Factors to Consider & Other Tips

Unlike puppy and adult food, senior dog food isn’t technically a type of food. The AAFCO does not list specific nutritional standards for senior dogs as they do for puppies and adults. However, you’ve probably seen senior dog foods on the shelf of your local pet foods store. So, what’s all that about?

Well, as dogs age, they’re likely to develop a variety of health problems. For instance, many older dogs have joint problems (just like older people). Senior dog foods include a range of added ingredients that may help slow the progression of these problems.

Beyond that, most of these senior dog foods are exactly the same as adult dog foods. Some have a lower caloric amount, as senior dogs are often less active. However, this will vary.

Based on this information, some dogs may benefit most from senior dog food when they begin to show signs of aging. If your dog has eye, joint, or skin problems, senior dog food may be able to help. There are several factors to consider, such as the diet your dog is already eating. Therefore, there is rarely a one-size-fits-all age when your canine needs to switch.

To help you figure out when to put your dog on senior dog food, let’s take a look at all the factors you should consider.

Factors to Consider When Switching to Senior Dog Food

Here are some of the most important factors to consider when switching your dog to senior food. As you’ll notice, age is not one of them.

Common Misconceptions About Senior Dog Food

There are many common misconceptions about senior dog food. Let’s take a look at some of them so that you won’t switch your dog to senior food at the wrong time.

Is Senior Dog Food Necessary?

No. Senior dog food is absolutely not required for most dogs. While some dogs may benefit from very specific senior dog food formulas, the average senior canine can continue eating high-quality adult food. Senior animals that are healthy and in good body condition likely do not need to switch foods.

However, dogs with diseases often seen during aging may want to switch foods. For instance, kidney disease, arthritis, and diabetes are often catered to in senior diets. Still, these diets differ substantially. Therefore, you’ll need to work with a vet to determine the best diet for your senior. Don’t assume that all senior dog foods fit the bill.

• Determine proper dog food portions and ideal daily intake with our helpful calorie calculator here.

Final Thoughts

There are many great senior dog foods out there. However, this category is not restricted by the AAFCO, so anything can be called senior dog food. Recipes differ heavily. Some are high in calories, while others are low in calories. Many have controlled sodium and phosphorus amounts, while others do not.

Many senior dogs do not need dog food specifically designed for older canines. Instead, a quality, balanced adult dog food is just fine for most. However, dogs with health problems commonly associated with aging may do best with a senior dog food of some sort. Arthritis, heart conditions, and kidney problems are often considered when companies design senior dog food.

Still, senior dog food differs so widely that reading nutritional labels is vital. For instance, many differ widely on calorie content. If your dog is gaining weight in old age, you don’t want to put them on a formula that assumes all older dogs lose weight. This may only make their weight gain worse.

• See also: My Senior Dog is Not Eating But Drinking Water: Out Vet Explains What to Do

Featured Image Credit: Olena Yakobchuk, Shutterstock