November is Senior Pet Health Month, highlighting how a dog’s nutritional needs can change as it grows older, sometimes in ways that are not immediately obvious. While ageing dogs may become less active and require fewer calories, maintaining adequate protein, healthy fats and essential nutrients remains important for supporting muscle mass, mobility and overall wellbeing.
“One of the biggest misconceptions about feeding an older dog is that they need less of everything,” says Sonja Maricevic, Chief Operations Officer at Pack Leader. “Although senior dogs may need fewer calories as their activity levels and metabolism change, they still need good-quality nourishment. Maintaining an appropriate intake of high-quality protein becomes particularly important as they age, helping to support muscle mass, strength and overall condition.”
When is a dog considered senior?
There is no single age at which every dog enters its senior years. Size and breed play a significant role, with larger dogs generally ageing faster than smaller breeds. A giant breed may begin showing signs of ageing from around seven years, while smaller dogs can remain relatively youthful well into their teens.
As dogs grow older, they may gradually lose muscle mass while accumulating body fat. Their metabolism can slow, reducing their energy requirements. Changes in their senses of smell and taste may affect their appetite, while dental discomfort, joint stiffness and digestive changes can also influence how comfortably they eat.
“Ageing is a gradual process, and the changes can be subtle,” explains Maricevic. “Pet owners should pay attention to their dog’s body condition, appetite, mobility and behaviour. These can provide valuable clues about whether their current diet and feeding routine are still appropriate.”
Maintaining muscle matters
One of the most important nutritional considerations for senior dogs is maintaining lean muscle mass, which supports strength, balance and mobility, helping older dogs remain active and comfortable.
Much like people, dogs can experience a gradual loss of muscle mass and strength as they age. There is growing awareness of the importance of maintaining adequate protein intake as we get older, particularly to help preserve muscle, strength and physical function. The same principle is important when it comes to our ageing dogs. Providing good-quality protein, particularly from animal sources, helps supply the essential amino acids needed to maintain muscle mass, support strength and keep them in good condition as they enter their senior years.
“Protein should not automatically be reduced as a dog gets older,” says Maricevic. “For a healthy senior dog, maintaining an intake of good-quality protein is important. A food containing at least 24% protein on a dry-matter basis can be a useful starting point when assessing nutritional options, although individual requirements will vary.”
Dogs with certain health conditions, including kidney disease, may require specific dietary adjustments, which should be made in consultation with a veterinarian.
Fewer calories, better nutrition
As an older dog becomes less active, their energy requirements may decrease. Continuing to feed the same portions they received during their more active adult years can contribute to weight gain.
Excess weight places additional strain on joints and can make mobility more challenging, particularly for dogs experiencing age-related stiffness or arthritis. Maintaining a healthy body condition is therefore an important part of supporting an older dog’s comfort and quality of life.
“Trimming calories should not mean compromising nutrition,” says Maricevic. “The aim is to manage energy intake while still providing good-quality protein, essential fats, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. Every mouthful should count, particularly as an older dog may have a smaller appetite or need less food overall.”
The quality of dietary fats also deserves attention. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA found in fish and fish oil, can help support joint health, skin, heart and brain function. Ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin can help support joint health, particularly in larger breeds or dogs experiencing stiffness.
Turn the bag around
Choosing an appropriate food for a senior dog involves more than simply looking for the word ‘senior’ on the front of the packaging. Different formulations can vary considerably, and a food marketed for older dogs does not automatically provide the right nutritional balance for every individual dog.
Taking a closer look at the ingredient list and nutritional information can help pet owners make more informed choices.
Look for clearly identified animal proteins at the top of the ingredient list, rather than vague descriptions such as ‘meat by-products’. Consider the protein content too. Many quality foods provide considerably more than 30% protein to help meet the nutritional needs of older dogs.
It is also worth checking the calorie content and feeding guidelines on the packaging, using these as a starting point and adjusting portions according to your dog’s activity level and body condition.
Foods made with real meat and recognisable whole ingredients provide valuable nutritional building blocks. Fish or fish oil, for example, can supply beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Ingredients such as fruits and vegetables also provide antioxidants and essential fibre, helping to support overall health and wellbeing as dogs age.
Kibble size and texture are also worth considering. Smaller kibble or food softened with warm water may be easier for a dog experiencing dental discomfort to manage.
“Turning the bag around is a simple but valuable habit,” says Maricevic. “The front of the packaging tells you how a food is marketed, but the ingredient list and nutritional information provide a better understanding of what is actually inside. Look for named animal protein, good-quality ingredients and a nutritional composition that meets your dog’s needs. Our dogs depend on us to make these decisions on their behalf.”
Everyday feeding habits that help
Feeding two or three smaller meals throughout the day, rather than one large meal, may help with digestion and appetite management. Keeping feeding times and locations consistent can also provide reassurance, as older dogs often benefit from predictable routines.
If a dog becomes less interested in their food, gently warming the meal or adding a little moisture can help enhance its aroma and appeal. Any changes to a dog’s diet should be introduced gradually, ideally over seven to 10 days, mixing in a little more of the new food each day.
Hydration is particularly important as dogs age. Older dogs carry less body water and are more prone to kidney strain. Fresh water should always be readily available, with an additional bowl placed near their bed if mobility is becoming a challenge. Water intake can also be increased through food by offering more wet or fresh food, or by adding a little water or broth to kibble at mealtimes.
Treats should be kept within reasonable limits, ideally accounting for no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake. Gentle, regular exercise, such as two 15-30 minute walks a day, can help maintain muscle strength, support digestion and contribute to healthy weight management.
Dental health should not be overlooked either. Bad breath, dropping food or difficulty chewing may indicate an underlying dental problem. Bacteria from inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream and have been linked to damage to the heart, kidneys and liver. Pet owners should monitor their dogs’ dental health to identify potential problems early and prevent them from affecting their dog’s appetite or overall wellbeing.
Ultimately, helping a dog age well is about more than extending their years. It is about supporting the quality of those years, allowing them to remain comfortable, active and able to enjoy the everyday moments that make them such a valued member of the family.
“Good nutrition plays an important role in helping our dogs age well,” concludes Maricevic. “They give us so much love and companionship throughout their lives, and as they grow older, we want to do everything we can to keep them happy, healthy and comfortable. Understanding their changing nutritional needs and making informed choices about what goes into their bowls is a simple but meaningful way to return some of the love they give us so freely.”
www.packleader.co.za
