12 Jul Suitable Food For Senior Dogs

Every dog has different nutritional needs, and senior dogs are no exception. As your beloved dog ages, he becomes harder to understand his dietary needs. Senior dogs can often create challenges and questions for their owners. For example, what is the right food for an old dog? What food is necessary for them? In this article, we will examine the answers to the mentioned questions. So, stay tuned to the end.

Old Age in senior dogs

If the dogs have a large size, the old age for them is considered between 6 and 7 years. If they have a smaller size, they won’t reach old age until 20 years old. Therefore, when dogs reach old age, you should take them to the vet. By examining their condition, the veterinarian determines the right diet for them.

Signs of ageing in senior dogs

Ageing in dogs is also associated with various symptoms. Signs of ageing in dogs can include:

• Loss of appetite
• Bad Breath
• Weight Loss
• A lump or bump
• Lethargy
• Increased fatigue
• Cough
• Difficulty urinating or defecating
• Being dull
• Disorientation or trouble with balance
• Foul-smelling secretions of pyometra

Food for senior dogs

Old dogs need different foods for better growth and development, building muscle mass, hormone production, regulating metabolism and healing damaged tissues. They need to eat special foods. Fruits and vegetables, meat, etc. should be included in their diet. Different proteins, vitamins and fats should also be present in the diet of senior dogs. Old dogs get more energy by consuming fat. Additionally, dogs need fat to break down certain vitamins such as A, D, K and E. Unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acids also play an effective role in the health of the skin of old dogs. A senior dog’s diet may contain 8 to 18 per cent fat.

Vitamins and proteins in senior dogs’ food

Old dogs are susceptible to various diseases. Therefore, you should care about their health. If the body of an elderly dog doesn’t receive enough protein, vitamins, nutrients, etc., he’s likely to suffer from various diseases. Therefore, the following ingredients should be included in the diet of old dogs:

Fruits and vegetables

Older dogs should eat enough vegetables and fruits. Dogs in their old age are more prone to digestive problems and constipation. Therefore, their diet should include food ingredients containing fruits and vegetables.

Nutrients

Dogs need vitamins and minerals to survive. If your dog’s body doesn’t receive enough vitamins and minerals, his growth process and metabolism will face problems. Calcium, iron and phosphorus are among the other compounds needed for the body of senior dogs. They need these nutrients to function and grow properly and improve the health of their bones and teeth. Most commercial senior dog foods contain all the vitamins and minerals needed.

Protein

Cereals such as rice, corn and wheat contain a good amount of protein. If these food compounds are combined with other ingredients, they provide the amino acids needed by the old dog’s body. Beef, chicken, turkey and fish contain the right amount of protein. Food for old dogs usually contains 18-25% protein. 

Low or high fibre

Fibres are one of the main components that should be present in the food of senior dogs. Fibres provide the energy needed for older dogs. The intestinal function of old dogs is improved by consuming compounds containing fibre. Rice, grains, peas, and potatoes are food ingredients that contain fibre. Dog food manufacturers use rice and corn as sources of fibre. Premium food for senior dogs should contain the right amount of carbohydrates. 

Protein diet

A protein diet is necessary when the protein level of an old dog’s body is low. Usually, the body of old dogs has low protein content. Therefore, the necessary proteins should be included in the diet of old dogs. 

Diet without protein

A diet without protein is chosen when the protein level of the dog’s body is sufficient and appropriate. In this case, a diet without protein and containing other nutritious compounds should be included in the diet of senior dogs.

MCTs, DHA and antioxidants in dog food

Dog food should include MCTs, DHA and antioxidants. These compounds play an effective role in strengthening the immune system and improving the brain ability of senior dogs. A variety of canned foods and dry food for old dogs have the right amount of these compounds.

Effects of MCTs, DHA and Antioxidants in dog food

Triglycerides, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for old dogs. The consumption of these compounds makes the health of the heart, kidney, skin and nervous system of old dogs well taken care of.

Keeping senior dogs

There are some important factors in keeping senior dogs which we will explain here 

Suitable nutrition

Calorie regulation

As dogs get older, their activity level decreases and as a result, they need fewer calories. To control your dog’s weight, reduce the amount of calories consumed.

Choosing the right food

Special foods for senior dogs are usually lower in protein and fat. They should also contain more fibre for better digestion.

Dietary supplements

Dietary supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help with joint health. But before using any supplement, it’s better to consult your veterinarian.

Suitable exercise

The muscles of older dogs should be kept engaged. If these muscles are immobile, they dry up and cause a lot of pain for him. The best exercise for old dogs is walking in the park or water. The second case can act as a miracle in the life of these dogs and strengthen their muscles well.

Regular Exercise

As dogs age, they are less physically active, but they still need exercise. Regular exercise can help maintain physical and mental health. Choose the right type and amount of exercise according to your dog’s condition.

Mental activities

Senior dogs still need mental stimulation. Brain games such as hiding toys or using balls with food in them can be helpful for this purpose.

Effects of Glucosamine on older dogs

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance in the dog’s body that helps maintain healthy joints. In the group of old dogs, the secretion of this substance in their body decreases, so we have to return this substance to the dog’s body by changing the diet. If we try to give too much of this substance to their body along with food supplements, it will cause liver problems. So moderation doesn’t cause any consequences for him.

Health Care

Periodic examinations

Senior dogs should be examined by a veterinarian at least once a year. Periodic check-ups help detect health problems at an early stage.

Vaccinations and regular tests

As the dog ages, the body’s immunity decreases. So, make sure vaccinations and regular check-ups are done.

Dental care

To prevent dental and gum disease, brush your dog’s teeth regularly with dog toothpaste or use a mouthwash solution and see a veterinarian if necessary.

Behavioural and psychological compliance

Attention, love and affection

Senior dogs need more attention and affection. Spend more time petting and being gentle with them.

Calm environment

Make sure your dog lives in a calm and clean environment. It helps to reduce stress and make them feel relaxed.

Physical and mental changes

As your dog ages, physical and mental changes may occur. To help them through this time, be patient and let your vet know about any changes.

Preventive and care measures

Outdoor Safety 

Taking care of senior dogs outdoors is very important. Use protective equipment such as leashes and collars and protect them well when the weather is hot or cold.

Parasite control

Senior dogs are more at risk of infection with worms and parasites. Use care and preventive products as recommended by your veterinarian.

Grooming 

Proper grooming of elderly dogs is very important. Keep sensitive areas such as ears, eyes and skin clean regularly.

Preparing an orthopaedic bed or a heated bed for dogs

Lying on an orthopaedic or heated bed may help senior dogs suffering from arthritis and other joint problems. Painless and relaxing sleep is very necessary for an old dog. This type of bed can improve mobility, relieve pain and improve quality of life. It has an internal heater to maintain the natural body temperature. For a similar effect, you can place an electric blanket or heated mattress on your old dog’s bed. Such mattresses provide significant relief for arthritis-related pain. The heated bed is specially designed so that its temperature doesn’t exceed the natural body temperature of your pet dog and provides a comfortable temperature for him.

Use a strap or leashes 

If your older dog has mobility issues, a special supportive shoulder collar can be a big help. There are collars in the market that have a handle on the back. So you can easily help your old dog to get up. Shoulder support collars are designed to help your dog walk, climb stairs, go to the bathroom or get into the car with ease.

To wrap up

Over time, dogs age like humans and new needs arise. As a dog owner, you should take steps to ensure the health and comfort of your senior dog. To have a healthy and lively dog, you must pay attention to nutrition, activity, health, grooming, etc. You can prevent the disease and have a healthy dog in this case. You can count on the specialized team of MishkaGrooming in all these steps. Our experienced and precise groomers have carefully and accurately groomed your dogs so they count the moments for the next session.