How Much Protein Does My Senior Dog Need?
As dogs age, their dietary requirements change and evolve too! Pet parents aren’t expected to be nutritionists, but they should be aware of the critical factors in picking suitable kibble.
Protein
According to the AKC, Older dogs must have about fifty percent more protein in their diets to maintain healthy muscle mass. Veterinarians recommend 28 to 32 percent protein in their dry food for healthy senior pups. The following list captures all the most popular and recommended senior dog foods within the protein percent range:
Tylee’s Human-Grade Beef Recipe Frozen Dog Food – $41.95 for 6 lbs
Human-grade ingredients just like your dinner! This fancy feast is made with high-quality protein and all of Fido’s essential vitamins, minerals, and omegas. Tylee’s dog food is made without corn, wheat, soy, or artificial ingredients. These packages are prep-free and user-friendly; just defrost and serve.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food – $35.95 for 15 lbs
This Blue Buffalo Dog Food is packed with muscle maintenance and energy-enhancing vitamins to keep Fido at the top of their game! This brand is passionate about high-quality protein while staying free of corn, wheat, soy, or by-products.
Victor Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food – $29.95 for 15 lbs
Sourced and produced in the USA, the Victor senior dog food is nutrient-dense and multi-protein! This formula is an excellent choice for old dogs, especially those with joint health problems. Each kibble is packed with glucosamine and chondroitin, proven to aid in bone health and recovery.
Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food – $34.95 for 15 lbs
With chicken as its first ingredient, this protein-rich formula is made from only natural ingredients, including a blend of 15 superfoods keeping your dog healthy and happy! Nutro dog food is geared toward providing balanced nutrition for senior dogs. This brand is also free of artificial preservatives, by-products, corn, wheat, or soy protein.
Calories
Middle-age pups tend to be overweight, whereas once they hit old age, they are usually underweight. Calories in your pet’s dog food fluctuate and are essential to keep track of. Dogs should have a low-calorie intake throughout their livelihood to reduce the probability of health problems later on. Another factor to check on your pet’s food label is sodium; certain diseases in dogs require low sodium dog food. Certain prescription diet foods are available for those with heart, kidney, or other conditions.
Supplements
Although there is a lack of evidence, many vets recommend adding puppy supplements to your pup’s routine to add those essential vitamins! Adding important amino, like glucosamine and chondroitin, aids in combating osteoarthritis. Purina observed significantly increased mental capabilities while taking a quintet supplement blend.
Check below for more articles on senior dog health!
When to Switch to Adult Dog Food