Aging is a natural process that brings about several health changes in dogs, including weight fluctuations, arthritis, and joint issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, often causing discomfort and mobility problems. Some changes are subtle, such as a weakened immune system or cognitive decline. Specialized dog food formulated for senior dogs can play a crucial role in managing these age-related health shifts and supporting overall well-being.
When selecting the right diet for your aging dog, consider factors such as protein quality, as older dogs may experience reduced nutrient absorption. Caloric needs can also vary; some senior dogs may require fewer calories due to decreased activity and a tendency to gain weight, while others might need to maintain or even increase their caloric intake to prevent weight loss.
However, it’s important to note that transitioning to senior-specific dog food isn’t always necessary or recommended for every older dog. Dr. Megan McCarthy, a veterinarian at Best Friends Animal Society, advises caution, especially if your dog is currently on a special diet or has a sensitive stomach. In such cases, sticking with their current adult dog food might be preferable to avoid digestive upset or other complications from dietary changes.
To assist you in making informed decisions, we’ve rigorously evaluated a wide array of dog food brands designed for senior dogs. Our recommendations are also informed by insights gathered from a survey of 407 dog owners, providing a comprehensive perspective on what works best for dogs of different sizes, ages, and breeds. Further details on our research methodology can be found in the How We Found The Best Dog Foods For Older Dogs section. Additionally, the What To Look For section offers valuable guidance on evaluating dog food brands for your senior companion.
Our Top Picks for Senior Dog Food
- Best Overall: Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dog Food
- Best Probiotics: Fromm Mature Senior Dry Dog Food
- Best Wet Food: Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+
- Best Budget-Friendly: Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food
- Best Subscription Service: The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
- Best for Large Breed Dogs: Royal Canin Large Aging Dry Dog Food
- Best Refrigerated Option: FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food
- Best for Small Breed Dogs: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior Dog Food
- Best Sustainable Choice: Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best Overall Senior Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Developed in partnership with veterinarians and scientists in the USA.
- High-quality animal protein is the primary ingredient.
- Versatile feeding options with both wet and dry food formulations.
- Specialized formulas for small breeds, large breeds, digestive health, and cognitive support.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited flavor options; only available in chicken and barley for dry food.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ dog food stands out as our top overall recommendation due to its veterinarian-backed formulation and high palatability among dogs. This brand offers a comprehensive range of dry kibble and wet dog food recipes specifically tailored to meet the evolving nutritional needs of dogs aged seven and older. Hill’s Science Diet prioritizes real animal protein as the first ingredient, ensuring a high-quality protein source, and incorporates human-grade ingredients to deliver essential vitamins and nutrients in every serving.
The brand’s commitment to quality is further underscored by its adherence to or exceeding AAFCO nutrient profiles and manufacturing guidelines, as well as recommendations from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA). Developed by veterinary professionals and manufactured in the United States, Hill’s Science Diet senior dog food is thoughtfully categorized into Adult 7+ and Adult 11+ age ranges, with a specific Adult 6+ formula for large breeds. Within each age group, Hill’s offers both wet and dry food options, catering to the diverse needs of small and large breeds, dogs with digestive sensitivities, and those requiring cognitive support.
Each recipe features real chicken or beef as the primary protein source and first ingredient. Furthermore, the inclusion of prebiotic fiber supports digestive health and a balanced gut microbiome, while essential nutrients like vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to maintaining healthy skin and coat. Dog owners in our survey reported consistent positive experiences with Hill’s Science Diet, noting improved digestive regularity and fewer dietary issues. The kibble is available in various sizes, and the wet food comes in convenient cans and smaller plastic trays. However, it’s worth noting that the dry dog food for dogs aged 7+ is currently limited to a single flavor: chicken and barley.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken & Barley | Package Sizes: 4, 15.5, or 30-pound bag
Best Probiotics for Senior Dogs
Fromm Mature Senior Dry Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Formulated without fillers like corn syrup, artificial flavors, and white flour.
- Enriched with a blend of probiotics and prebiotics to promote digestive regularity.
- Real chicken is the primary ingredient, complemented by wholesome vegetables, grains, and fruits.
What We Don’t Like:
- Contains cheese, which may cause digestive issues in some dogs, although many dogs enjoy it.
- Availability may be less widespread compared to other major brands.
Fromm Mature Senior Dry Dog Food is expertly crafted to address the unique nutritional shifts that occur as dogs age. In our survey of 407 dog owners, Fromm received high praise for its consistent use of premium ingredients, overall owner satisfaction, and the positive engagement and enjoyment observed in their senior dogs.
The recipe for mature dogs prioritizes chicken as the main ingredient, incorporating whole grains like brown rice and barley, along with fruits and vegetables, to deliver comprehensive and balanced nutrition in each serving. Fromm’s signature blend of prebiotics and probiotics is specifically designed to optimize digestive function and metabolism, aiding in preventing unwanted weight gain, a common concern in older dogs. However, the senior formula is available only in chicken flavor and includes dairy, which, while palatable to many dogs, may be problematic for dogs with dairy sensitivities.
Fromm dog food is available through online retailers and specialty pet stores and typically falls into a higher price range compared to some other brands on our list.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Sizes: 15 or 30-pound bag
Best Wet Dog Food for Seniors
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Wet Dog Food
What We Like:
- Made with real animal protein sources, including chicken, beef, or turkey.
- Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to bolster immune and digestive health.
- Includes glucosamine to support joint health and mobility.
What We Don’t Like:
- Some recipes may contain corn starch, protein by-product meal, and artificial flavors.
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Senior Complete Essentials Wet Dog Food is an excellent wet food option for senior dogs of all sizes aged seven and older. Each recipe is packed with 23 essential vitamins and minerals, carefully formulated to support optimal health in aging dogs. Key ingredients include glucosamine for joint support, and antioxidants and probiotics to maintain healthy immune and digestive systems. The recipes feature human-grade, animal-sourced proteins—beef, turkey, or chicken—along with easily digestible rice.
Purina Pro Plan’s wet food line is made without artificial colors or preservatives and is conveniently packaged in 13-ounce cans and resealable 10-ounce tubs. The smaller tub format for seniors also incorporates botanical oils to promote cognitive alertness. However, some recipes may include artificial flavors to enhance palatability for dogs.
Type: Wet | Flavors: Chicken & Rice, Beef & Rice, Turkey & Rice | Package Sizes: 10 or 13 ounces
Best Budget-Friendly Senior Dog Food
Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food
What We Like:
- Made with farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient.
- Affordable price point and widely available in retail stores.
- Enriched with fiber, glucosamine, and antioxidants to support senior health.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited to one flavor option.
- No specific formula available for small breed dogs.
Iams Proactive Health Healthy Aging Dry dog Food demonstrates that you don’t have to compromise on quality when seeking a budget-conscious dog food option for your senior dog. This affordable dog food is formulated with human-grade ingredients, featuring farm-raised chicken as the primary ingredient. Specifically designed for senior dogs, it provides fiber and prebiotics to aid digestion, antioxidants to support the immune system, and glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. It also includes supplements aimed at promoting fat burning and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
The kibble is offered in formulas for both regular and large breeds and is made without artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers. Additional wholesome ingredients include whole grains, beet pulp, and carrots. Iams Proactive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food is readily accessible at most pet food retailers.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Sizes: 7, 15, or 29.1 pounds
Best Subscription Senior Dog Food
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Offers customized meal plans tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
- Uses human-grade ingredients for superior quality and nutrition.
- Provides convenient, free home delivery.
- Flexible plan adjustments and delivery scheduling.
What We Don’t Like:
- Can be more expensive, particularly for larger dog breeds.
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food provides a convenient and customizable approach to feeding your senior dog through their dog food delivery service. This service allows you to create personalized fresh food meals for your pet, delivered directly to your doorstep. The Farmer’s Dog utilizes human-grade ingredients, including high-quality meats and vegetables, in their recipes. They offer four protein options: chicken, turkey, beef, and pork. To create a tailored meal plan, you complete a questionnaire detailing your dog’s activity level, age, and any health concerns. You have the flexibility to select or exclude specific proteins as needed.
The fresh food meals arrive frozen and are shipped free to 48 states. You can easily modify your plan or delivery schedule at any time. Pricing starts at approximately $2 per day for small dogs but can increase to around $12 per day for larger breeds.
The Farmer’s Dog provides fresh, human-grade dog food delivered to your door.
Senior dog enjoying a meal from The Farmer’s Dog, showcasing the fresh, palatable quality of the food.
Dog eagerly anticipates a bowl of fresh food from The Farmer’s Dog, highlighting the appeal of fresh ingredients for senior dogs.
Freshly prepared packaging from The Farmer’s Dog, emphasizing the convenience and quality of delivered dog food.
A nutritious bowl of The Farmer’s Dog food, ready to be served, illustrating the wholesome and appetizing nature of fresh dog food.
Selection of different recipes from The Farmer’s Dog, showcasing the variety of protein options available in their fresh dog food service.
Visible fresh ingredients in The Farmer’s Dog food, reinforcing the human-grade quality and natural components of the meal.
Type: Fresh (Frozen Delivery) | Flavors: Chicken, Beef, Pork, Turkey | Package Sizes: Varies based on dog’s needs
Best Dog Food for Large Breed Seniors
Royal Canin Large Aging Dry Dog Food
What We Like:
- Specifically formulated for large breeds (56+ pounds) aged eight years and older.
- Supports bone and joint health with glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-6 fatty acids, and essential minerals.
- Kibble can be mixed with wet food or rehydrated to improve palatability and ease chewing.
What We Don’t Like:
- Contains by-product meal, which may be a concern for some pet owners.
Royal Canin Large Aging 8+ Dry Dog Food is tailored to address the specific health needs of large breed senior dogs. Larger breeds often experience increased stress on their joints and cardiovascular system, making targeted nutritional support crucial as they age. This formula is enriched with taurine, glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) to support heart and joint health, contributing to overall well-being in senior large breed dogs.
Royal Canin Large Aging 8+ is formulated for large dogs weighing between 56 and 100 pounds. In our survey, a significant number of dog owners who feed their dogs Royal Canin attributed their dog’s continued health to the brand’s size-, age-, and breed-specific nutrition. This balanced diet provides protein and fiber to promote healthy digestion. However, the primary protein source is chicken by-product meal, which may not be preferred by all dog owners. It is important to note that by-product meals are typically derived from nutrient-rich animal parts like organs and intestines, which are high in protein and can help reduce food waste.
For senior dogs with dental challenges or reduced appetite, the chicken-flavored kibble can be moistened with water to soften it and enhance hydration at mealtime. For added variety and palatability, you can also mix in Royal Canin Mature 8+ Wet Dog Food.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 30 pounds
Best Refrigerated Senior Dog Food
FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Made with non-GMO, human-grade ingredients sourced from US farms.
- Free from preservatives, meat meals, and by-product meals.
- Highly palatable, making it suitable for picky eaters.
What We Don’t Like:
- Does not offer a senior-specific formula, though suitable for senior dogs.
- May be less cost-effective for large breed dogs due to portion sizes.
FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food offers the benefits of homemade-style meals with the convenience of pre-packaged refrigerated food. This option provides freshness, rich flavor, and high nutritional value for senior dogs. If your older dog is a fussy eater or has dental sensitivities, the soft texture and savory meat flavors of FreshPet are likely to be highly appealing. In our home testing, FreshPet’s quality ingredients received ratings comparable to our Best Overall pick, Hill’s Science Diet.
While FreshPet doesn’t have a dedicated senior dog food line, all of their recipes are appropriate for adult dogs of all ages, including seniors. This refrigerated dog food is made with human-grade ingredients, including farm-raised chicken, fish, beef, eggs, fruits, and vegetables, all sourced and manufactured in the United States. FreshPet offers grain-free options as well as formulas designed for joint and mobility support and digestive health, although availability of specific flavors may vary.
FreshPet food is packaged in sausage-shaped rolls, easy to slice and serve, and in resealable bags containing bite-sized pieces resembling meatballs.
Type: Refrigerated | Flavors: Chicken, Beef & Lamb, Chicken, Beef, Salmon, & Egg | Package Sizes: 1.5 or 4.5 pound bags; 1 pound roll
Best Dog Food for Small Breed Seniors
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Formulated without poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health and mobility.
- Features smaller kibble pieces, ideal for small breed dogs.
What We Don’t Like:
- Currently available in only one flavor.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for Small Breed Seniors is specifically designed to support the unique needs of aging small breed dogs, helping to maintain their energy levels, joint comfort, and cognitive function. In our survey of 407 dog owners who feed their dogs Blue Buffalo, the brand received high marks for its consistent use of high-quality, human-grade ingredients.
This dry dog food features smaller kibble pieces, making it easier for small breed dogs to chew and digest. Manufactured in the USA, the recipe starts with deboned chicken as the first ingredient and includes antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and essential nutrients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, phosphorus, and key vitamins. However, it is currently offered in a single flavor, Chicken & Brown Rice, which may not be suitable for senior small breed dogs with poultry sensitivities.
The kibble is packaged in resealable bags in 5- or 15-pound sizes to maintain freshness.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken & Brown Rice | Package Sizes: 5 or 15 pounds
Best Sustainable Senior Dog Food
Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Ingredients are antibiotic, hormone, and steroid-free.
- No artificial ingredients or additives are used.
- Enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.
- Transparent sourcing and ethical partnerships.
What We Don’t Like:
- Only one recipe specifically formulated for senior dogs.
Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is a standout choice for environmentally conscious dog owners seeking sustainable and high-quality nutrition for their senior pets. Open Farm’s dog food line includes a dedicated dry food recipe optimized for older dogs. The Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is appropriate for all dog sizes, featuring small kibble pieces that are easy to eat and digest. This nutrient-rich kibble is made with humanely raised turkey and chicken as the primary protein sources and first two ingredients. All ingredients are non-GMO and are never raised with hormones, antibiotics, or steroids.
Each serving of Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food includes glucosamine and chondroitin to support strong and healthy joints in senior dogs, along with beneficial ingredients like pumpkin, peas, chickpeas, carrots, and coconut oil. Open Farm is committed to transparency, providing detailed traceability of all ingredients used in their dog foods.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Turkey & Chicken | Package Sizes: 4 or 22 pounds
Final Verdict on the Best Dog Food for Older Dogs
For optimal overall health in senior dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dry Dog Food is our top recommendation. Available in both dry and wet food formats, it’s formulated with human-grade ingredients and developed by veterinarians and scientists to specifically address the nutritional needs of aging dogs. If you prefer fresh food for your senior dog, FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food is our top pick. It’s high in protein and rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and its palatability and soft texture make it ideal for picky eaters or dogs with dental issues.
What to Look for When Choosing Dog Food for Older Dogs
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy Statement
When selecting dog food, always check for an AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement on the packaging. This statement confirms that the food is nutritionally complete and balanced, having undergone laboratory testing and feeding trials to ensure it meets the nutritional requirements for a dog’s specific life stage.
Senior dog foods are often formulated with fewer calories compared to regular adult dog food because senior dogs are typically less active. However, some older dogs may struggle to maintain weight and may not need reduced-calorie diets. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate caloric intake for your senior dog.
Dr. Megan McCarthy notes that senior formulas often contain up to 50% more protein than standard adult diets to help maintain muscle mass, which naturally decreases with age. However, dogs with certain medical conditions may require a low-protein diet, so it’s essential to discuss your dog’s specific nutritional needs with your vet.
Addressing Health Issues with Senior Dog Food
Caloric adjustments are common in senior dog foods to account for reduced activity levels. However, it’s crucial to recognize that not all senior dogs require fewer calories; some may need to maintain or even increase their calorie intake to avoid unhealthy weight loss. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best approach for your dog’s specific health profile.
Similarly, while increased protein is often beneficial for maintaining muscle mass in older dogs, it’s not universally appropriate. Dogs with kidney disease or other conditions may require protein-restricted diets. Personalized dietary advice from your veterinarian is key to managing your senior dog’s health effectively.
Common Beneficial Ingredients in Senior Dog Food
Many senior dog foods include specific ingredients to address age-related health concerns. Reviewing the ingredient label and consulting with your veterinarian can help you identify beneficial components for your dog:
- Fiber: Aids in easier digestion, addressing common digestive sensitivities in older dogs.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Support joint health, crucial for managing arthritis and mobility issues.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promote healthy skin and coat, and can also have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Considerations Regarding Grain-Free Dog Foods
It’s important to be aware of the ongoing investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) into a potential link between certain diets and heart disease in dogs, particularly grain-free foods. Since 2014, the FDA has noted an increase in reported cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a heart condition. In cases where diet information was available, over 90% of dogs diagnosed with DCM were fed grain-free diets, and 93% of these diets contained peas and/or lentils.
While the FDA’s investigation is still underway, dog owners should discuss with their veterinarians whether a grain-free diet is appropriate for their dog, especially considering the potential risks.
Wet vs. Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs
Dry dog food typically contains about 10% to 12% moisture, whereas wet food has a much higher moisture content, around 75% to 78%. While wet food can help keep your dog better hydrated, it may also contribute to increased tartar buildup on teeth. Alternating between wet and dry food can offer a balance of benefits.
Wet food is often a good choice for senior dogs who are finicky eaters or have dental problems, such as missing teeth, making chewing dry kibble difficult. For senior dogs with orthopedic issues that limit their mobility, wet food can also aid in hydration, as they may not drink water as frequently.
Senior dog enjoys a meal of wet food, showcasing the palatability and ease of consumption for older dogs with dental sensitivities.
How We Found The Best Dog Foods For Older Dogs
Our recommendations for the best dog foods for older dogs are based on a thorough research process. We developed a detailed questionnaire to gather insights from dog owners about the qualities they prioritize when choosing food for their dogs at each life stage. This included identifying veterinarian-recommended brands and those with transparent, trustworthy ingredient lists. We also considered value and affordability, as well as product availability.
To ensure our picks catered to a diverse range of dogs, we collected information about each dog’s size, breed, age, and health history. The best senior dog food for a small breed dog with dental issues will differ significantly from the ideal food for a large breed senior dog.
In total, we surveyed 407 dog owners, collecting both numerical ratings and detailed feedback about their experiences with various dog food brands they currently or previously used. This comprehensive data, combined with expert veterinary advice, informed our final selections.
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Dog Food
When should I switch my dog to senior food?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, small dogs are generally considered senior around age seven. Large breed dogs, with shorter lifespans, are often considered senior by five or six years old. However, the ideal time to switch to senior food depends on individual factors such as your dog’s activity level, lifestyle, and health conditions, as noted by veterinarian Dr. Barbara Hodges.
Dr. Hodges emphasizes that many older pets experience mobility limitations, and maintaining a lean body weight is beneficial. A lower-calorie diet may be appropriate if your dog is prone to weight gain. Conversely, senior dogs with conditions like kidney insufficiency may require specialized renal diets with protein restrictions. Therefore, consulting with your veterinarian is crucial to determine your senior dog’s evolving dietary needs.
Dr. McCarthy also advises caution against automatically switching all dogs to senior food. For dogs already on special or prescription diets, or those with sensitive stomachs, continuing their current adult dog food may be preferable to avoid dietary disruptions.
Is wet food better for senior dogs?
Both dry and wet dog foods must meet the same nutritional standards. Dry food is popular for its convenience and lower cost compared to wet food. Some veterinarians recommend dry food for potential dental health benefits, although these benefits may be minimal unless using a tartar-control formula, according to Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. However, some dog owners prefer wet food due to its palatability or for addressing specific health concerns.
Dr. McCarthy states that wet food isn’t inherently superior for healthy senior dogs maintaining a good body weight on dry food. However, wet food can be beneficial for dogs with dental disease or missing teeth, making it easier to chew. Certain health conditions, like diabetes or kidney disease, may also benefit from wet food, but veterinary consultation is recommended.
Dr. Hodges suggests that wet food is generally preferable for all dogs, including seniors, as it more closely resembles fresh food and provides better hydration. She notes that wet food is often easier to digest and more palatable for older dogs, who may become pickier with age. For this reason, she sometimes recommends rotating among various high-quality wet/canned dog foods to maintain interest and ensure nutritional variety.
Is high-protein food better for older dogs?
Dr. Hodges emphasizes that nutrition should be individualized to each dog. The optimal protein, fat, and calorie levels for senior dogs depend on their overall health, body condition, lifestyle, activity level, and any medical conditions.
Dr. McCarthy indicates that moderate to high protein diets are generally considered beneficial for older dogs. Senior dogs are prone to muscle loss, and adequate protein intake is crucial to mitigate this. However, in cases of kidney disease, a protein-restricted diet is necessary to support kidney health. Therefore, protein requirements should be tailored to each senior dog’s health status.
Should I moisten dry food for senior dogs?
Whether to moisten dry food for senior dogs depends on the individual dog’s needs. For dogs with dental issues or difficulty chewing, adding water to dry kibble or switching to canned food can make eating easier. Moistening dry food also increases hydration.
Dr. Hodges, while favoring canned food for its digestibility and palatability, acknowledges that many owners prefer dry food. If dry kibble is the chosen option, she recommends adding low-sodium broth or water to create a low-fat “gravy,” making it more palatable and easier to eat.
Why Trust The Spruce Pets
This guide was updated by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets with extensive experience researching and reviewing pet products. Her commitment to finding the best products for pets is driven by her own experiences as a dog owner.
Our research process includes comprehensive surveys of pet owners regarding their brand preferences and feeding habits. Data collected includes dog age, size, breed, and detailed histories of dog food brands used and preferred. We also consult with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue professionals and evaluate dog foods based on ingredients, flavors, cost, and packaging sizes.
This guide builds upon previous work by Mary Jo DiLonardo, who has decades of experience covering pets and animal health. We also consulted with veterinary experts Dr. Megan McCarthy and Dr. Barbara Hodges to provide authoritative insights on senior dog nutrition.
For further reading, explore The 10 Best Dog Food Brands, According to More Than 400 Dogs.
The Spruce Pets maintains high editorial standards, using peer-reviewed studies and reputable sources to ensure the accuracy and trustworthiness of our content. For more information, please see our editorial process.
