12 Best Dog Foods for Seniors – 2024 Reviews & Top Picks
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As our furry friends age, their nutritional needs change, and it becomes crucial to provide them with the dog food for senior dogs. This article will compare the top 12 senior dog foods available along with reviews of each one to help you make an informed decision for your beloved pet.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024
| Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Ollie Dog Food |
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Best Value
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The Farmer's Dog |
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Click to Save 50% + Get Free Shipping |
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Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food |
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| Premium Choice |
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Annamaet Original 31% Senior Dry Dog Food |
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Merrick Healthy Grains Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food |
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The 12 Best Dog Foods for Senior Dogs
1. Ollie Dog Food – Best Overall
| Main ingredients: | Human-grade meats, vegetables, and superfoods |
| Protein content: | 9–12% (varies by recipe) |
| Fat content: | 5–10% (varies by recipe) |
| Calories: | Varies by recipe |
Ollie stands out as the best overall dog food for seniors due to its fully customizable meal plans tailored to your dog’s specific needs. With human-grade ingredients, including fresh meats, vegetables, and superfoods, Ollie offers a variety of recipes to suit your senior dog’s taste buds. Their meals are gently cooked to preserve nutrients and delivered straight to your door, making it a convenient option for busy pet owners. They’re also soft, making it easier for your senior dog to eat and digest.
- Customizable meal plans
- Fresh, human-grade ingredients
- Variety of recipes
- Delivered straight to your door
- Subscription-based service may not be suitable for all
- Can be more expensive than traditional kibble
2. The Farmer’s Dog – Best Value
| Main ingredients: | Real meats, vegetables, and grains |
| Protein content: | Varies by recipe |
| Fat content: | Varies by recipe |
| Calories: | Varies by recipe |
The Farmer’s Dog offers the best dog food for senior dogs for the money with their personalized meal plans made from real, high-quality ingredients. Each meal is prepared fresh and portioned based on your dog’s unique needs. The Farmer’s Dog focuses on using simple, whole ingredients, ensuring your senior dog gets the nutrients they require without any unnecessary fillers or additives.
- Personalized meal plans
- Fresh, whole ingredients
- No fillers or additives
- Pre-portioned meals
- Subscription-based service may not suit everyone
- Higher cost compared to traditional kibble
3. Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, chicken meal, whole brown rice, brewers rice, rice bran |
| Protein content: | 26% |
| Fat content: | 11% |
| Calories: | 316 kcal/cup |
Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food is a premium choice for senior dogs, featuring a blend of high-quality proteins, whole grains, and nutrient-rich superfoods. This recipe is designed to support healthy joints, a strong immune system, and optimal cognitive function in aging dogs. The kibble is also crafted with natural plant fibers for improved digestion.
- High-quality proteins and whole grains
- Nutrient-rich superfoods
- Supports joint, immune, and cognitive health
- Improves digestion
- May not suit dogs with grain sensitivities
- Slightly more expensive than other dry dog foods
4. Annamaet Original 31% Senior Dry Dog Food – Premium Choice
| Main ingredients: | Chicken meal, brown rice, pearled barley, rolled oats |
| Protein content: | 31% |
| Fat content: | 14% |
| Calories: | 392 kcal/cup |
Annamaet Original 31% Senior Dry Dog Food is a premium choice for senior dog nutrition. Formulated with high-quality chicken meal, this recipe provides an optimal balance of protein, fat, and fiber to support your dog’s overall health. Additionally, it contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to promote a strong immune system and healthy aging.
- Balanced protein, fat, and fiber
- Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Promotes healthy aging
- May not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
- Higher in calories compared to other senior dog foods
5. Merrick Healthy Grains Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Deboned chicken, brown rice, oatmeal, barley |
| Protein content: | 28% |
| Fat content: | 11% |
| Calories: | 345 kcal/cup |
Merrick Healthy Grains Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food is specifically tailored for the needs of senior dogs. With deboned chicken as the first ingredient, this recipe offers high-quality protein to support lean muscle mass. The formula also contains healthy grains, fruits, and vegetables, providing essential vitamins and minerals for overall health and well-being.
- High-quality protein
- Healthy grains
- Added vitamins and minerals
- Supports overall health and wellbeing
- May not suit dogs with grain sensitivities
- Some dogs may not like the taste
6. Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Chicken & Pomegranate Recipe Senior Medium & Maxi Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Deboned chicken, dehydrated chicken, whole spelt, whole oats |
| Protein content: | 30% |
| Fat content: | 18% |
| Calories: | 399 kcal/cup |
Farmina N&D Ancestral Grain Chicken & Pomegranate Recipe is a great choice for senior medium and large breed dogs. This unique recipe combines high-quality deboned chicken with wholesome ancestral grains such as spelt and oats, providing an optimal balance of nutrients for aging dogs. The addition of pomegranate, a powerful antioxidant, helps support your dog’s immune system and overall health.
- High-quality deboned chicken
- Wholesome ancestral grains
- Rich in antioxidants
- Supports immune system and overall health
- May not suit dogs with grain sensitivities
- Slightly more expensive than other dry dog foods
7. Purina Pro Plan 7+ Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Beef & Rice Formula High Protein Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Beef, rice flour, poultry by-product meal, whole grain wheat |
| Protein content: | 27% |
| Fat content: | 15% |
| Calories: | 402 kcal/cup |
Purina Pro Plan 7+ Complete Essentials Shredded Blend Beef & Rice Formula is specifically designed for senior dogs aged seven and older. This high-protein formula features real beef as the first ingredient, supporting lean muscle mass and overall health. Combined with rice for a digestible carbohydrate source, this recipe provides balanced nutrition to meet the unique needs of aging dogs.
- Contains real beef
- High-protein formula
- Digestible carbohydrate source
- Contains poultry by-product meal, which may not suit all dogs
- Some dogs may not like the taste
8. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Aging 12+ Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat gluten |
| Protein content: | 26% |
| Fat content: | 11% |
| Calories: | 343 kcal/cup |
Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Aging 12+ Dry Dog Food is formulated specifically for small breed senior dogs aged 12 years and older. This recipe features a blend of essential nutrients to support the unique needs of aging small dogs, including antioxidants for a strong immune system, essential fatty acids for skin and coat health, and a specially designed kibble shape to encourage chewing and support dental health.
- Formulated for small breed senior dogs
- Supports overall health
- Antioxidants support immune system
- Specially designed kibble shape for dental health
- Contains chicken by-product meal and grains, which may not suit all dogs
- Some dogs may not like the taste
9. Wellness CORE Digestive Health 7+ Adult Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal |
| Protein content: | 25% |
| Fat content: | 12% |
| Calories: | 351 kcal/cup |
Wellness CORE Digestive Health 7+ Adult Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food is designed for senior dogs aged seven and older. This recipe combines high-quality deboned chicken with wholesome brown rice and oatmeal, providing a balanced diet that supports digestion and overall health. The formula also contains prebiotics and probiotics to promote a healthy gut, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support.
- High-quality deboned chicken
- Wholesome ingredients for energy and fiber
- Contains prebiotics and probiotics
- Provides joint support
- May not suit dogs with grain sensitivities
- Some dogs may not like the taste
10. Purina ONE SmartBlend Classic Ground Turkey & Barley Entree Adult Wet Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Turkey, turkey broth, liver, barley |
| Protein content: | 8% |
| Fat content: | 6% |
| Calories: | 406 kcal/cup |
Purina ONE SmartBlend Classic Ground Turkey & Barley Entree is a flavorful wet dog food option that combines real turkey, nutrient-rich barley, and a savory broth. This recipe offers a high-quality protein source, easily digestible carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals to support the overall health of adult and senior dogs. The soft texture is perfect for dogs with dental issues or those who prefer wet food.
- Contains real turkey
- Easily digestible carbohydrates
- Essential vitamins and minerals
- Soft texture
- Lower protein content compared to dry dog foods
- Some dogs may not like the taste
11. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Deboned chicken, brown rice, barley, oatmeal |
| Protein content: | 18% |
| Fat content: | 10% |
| Calories: | 344 kcal/cup |
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is crafted specifically for senior dogs, featuring deboned chicken, wholesome grains, and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. The formula also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility, and essential vitamins and minerals for overall well being.
- High-quality protein
- Contains wholesome grains
- Antioxidant-rich
- Glucosamine and chondroitin
- May not suit dogs with grain sensitivities
- Lower protein content compared to some other senior dog foods
12. Canidae PURE Senior Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Recipe with Chicken Dry Dog Food
| Main ingredients: | Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, peas |
| Protein content: | 28% |
| Fat content: | 10% |
| Calories: | 409 kcal/cup |
Canidae PURE Senior Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Recipe with Chicken Dry Dog Food is ideal for senior dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. This limited ingredient, grain-free recipe features real chicken as the primary protein source, along with other wholesome ingredients like sweet potatoes and peas. The formula also includes probiotics for digestive health and antioxidants for immune system support.
- Limited ingredient, grain-free recipe
- Contains real chicken
- Contains probiotics
- Antioxidants support immune system
- May not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
- Higher in calories compared to other senior dog foods
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Senior Dog Food
As your dog ages, their nutritional needs change, and it becomes crucial to provide them with a diet specifically tailored to their unique requirements. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential factors to consider when selecting the best senior dog food for your furry companion.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Before making any significant changes to your senior dog’s diet, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements.
Age-Appropriate Formulas
Not all senior dog foods are created equal. It’s essential to choose a formula specifically designed for older dogs, as these recipes typically contain adjusted levels of protein, fat, and fiber to meet their unique nutritional needs. Look for dog food labeled as “senior” or “mature” to ensure it’s suitable for aging dogs.
High-Quality Protein Sources
Senior dogs require high-quality protein sources to maintain lean muscle mass and overall health. Look for dog food that lists real meat, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the first ingredient. Avoid recipes with low-quality protein sources, such as by-product meals or meat and bone meal, which may not provide the essential nutrients your senior dog needs.
Controlled Calorie Content
Older dogs often have lower energy levels and slower metabolisms, making it easier for them to gain weight. To prevent obesity and related health issues, choose a senior dog food with controlled calorie content. This will help maintain a healthy weight and support your dog’s overall wellbeing.
Joint Support
Joint health is a significant concern for aging dogs, as they’re more prone to developing arthritis and other joint-related issues. Look for senior dog foods that contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support joint health and mobility.
Digestibility
Older dogs may experience a decline in digestive function, making it essential to choose a dog food that’s easily digestible. Opt for recipes that contain wholesome, natural ingredients and avoid those with artificial additives, fillers, or preservatives, which may cause digestive upset.
Antioxidants and Omega Fatty Acids
Senior dog foods should also contain antioxidants and omega fatty acids to support your dog’s immune system, cognitive function, and overall health. Look for recipes that include antioxidant-rich ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables, and omega fatty acids from fish oil or flaxseed.
Wet vs. Dry Food
Some senior dogs may have dental issues or difficulty chewing, making wet food a more suitable option. Wet food is also beneficial for dogs with reduced appetites, as it can be more palatable and enticing. However, dry dog food can still be an excellent choice for many older dogs, offering balanced nutrition and dental benefits.
A Quick Primer on Senior Nutrition
As your dog ages, their nutritional needs change, making it essential to provide them with a diet tailored to their unique requirements. In this section, we will discuss the role of protein, vitamins, minerals, and fats in senior dog nutrition and explain why these nutrients are especially important for maintaining their health and well-being.
Protein
Protein plays a critical role in maintaining your senior dog’s lean muscle mass, skin and coat health, and overall well-being. As dogs age, they may experience a decline in muscle mass and strength, making it vital to provide them with high-quality protein sources. Look for dog food that lists real meat, such as chicken, beef, or fish, as the first ingredient. Ideally, senior dog food should contain slightly lower protein levels than adult dog food to accommodate their reduced activity levels and metabolic changes.
Vitamins
Vitamins are essential micronutrients that support various bodily functions, including immune system function, vision, and skin health. Antioxidant vitamins like vitamin A, C, and E are particularly crucial for senior dogs, as they help combat free radicals and support their aging immune systems. Many senior dog foods include fruits and vegetables, which are natural sources of these essential vitamins.
Minerals
Minerals play an essential role in maintaining your senior dog’s bone health, nerve function, and metabolism. Calcium and phosphorus are particularly important for maintaining strong bones and teeth, while minerals like potassium, magnesium, and sodium help support nerve function and fluid balance. Since senior dogs may have reduced kidney function, it is crucial to provide them with a diet that contains appropriate levels of minerals to prevent imbalances that can lead to health issues.
Fats
Fats are a vital source of energy for senior dogs and are necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K. They also play a role in maintaining healthy skin, coat, and joints. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are particularly important for senior dogs, as they help support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and maintain a healthy coat. Look for senior dog foods that contain high-quality fat sources, such as fish oil or flaxseed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top 5 picks for the best senior dog foods are Ollie Dog Food (Best Overall), The Farmer’s Dog (Best Value), Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food (Premium Choice), Annamaet Original 31% Senior Dry Dog Food (Vet’s Choice), and Merrick Healthy Grains Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food. Each of these options provides high-quality ingredients, tailored nutrition, and support for the unique needs of aging dogs. We hope with our picks and reviews, you can choose a food to ensure your senior dog receives the best nutrition possible for a healthy, happy life.
Featured Image Credit: Africa Studio, Shutterstock
