As our canine companions enter their golden years, their nutritional needs change. Just like humans, senior dogs can experience age-related health issues such as weight gain, arthritis, and decreased cognitive function. Choosing the right diet becomes crucial to mitigate these changes and ensure they live their senior lives to the fullest. A food specifically formulated for senior dogs can make a significant difference in their health and well-being.
When selecting the Best Senior Dog Food, several factors come into play. Protein quality is paramount as older dogs may have a harder time absorbing nutrients. Calorie needs can also vary; some senior dogs become less active and require fewer calories to prevent weight gain, while others might lose weight and need to maintain their caloric intake.
However, it’s important to note that a senior-specific diet isn’t always necessary for every older dog. According to veterinarian Megan McCarthy, DVM, from Best Friends Animal Society in Salt Lake City, “If your dog is already on a special or prescription diet, or has a sensitive stomach, you may want to continue feeding the same ‘adult’ dog food instead of a senior dog food to prevent any issues by switching diets.” Consulting with your veterinarian is always the best first step to determine your senior dog’s specific dietary needs.
To help you navigate the world of senior dog food, we’ve evaluated a wide range of brands and formulas. We also considered feedback from 407 dog parents to gather real-world insights into what works best for their aging companions. Our recommendations are designed to cater to dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds, ensuring you can find the best senior dog food to keep your furry friend healthy and thriving. You can find more about our research process in the How We Found The Best Dog Foods For Older Dogs section and learn what to consider when choosing a food in the What To Look For section.
Our Top Picks for the Best 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: Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food
- Best Subscription: The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
- Best for Large Dogs: Royal Canin Large Aging Dry Dog Food
- Best Refrigerated: FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food
- Best for Small Dogs: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior Dog Food
- Best Sustainable: Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Best Overall
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Developed with veterinarians and scientists in the United States
- High-quality animal protein is the primary ingredient
- Versatile options for mixing wet and dry food
- Specific formulations for small and large breeds, digestive health, and cognitive support
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited flavor options in dry food
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dog Food stands out as our top overall pick for best senior dog food due to its veterinarian-developed formula and high palatability. This brand offers a comprehensive range of recipes in both dry kibble and wet food formats, all meticulously designed to cater to the evolving nutritional requirements of dogs aged seven and older. Hill’s prioritizes real animal protein as the first ingredient in their recipes, ensuring a high-quality protein source for senior dogs who may have difficulty absorbing nutrients. They also utilize human-grade ingredients to provide essential vitamins and nutrients in every serving.
What makes Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ our top recommendation is its veterinarian endorsement and positive reception from dogs. It’s a brand trusted by professionals and enjoyed by pets, making mealtime a breeze. Furthermore, Hill’s pet food products consistently meet or exceed the nutrient profiles and manufacturing guidelines established by the AAFCO and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA), guaranteeing nutritional completeness and safety.
Developed in the USA, Hill’s Science Diet offers tailored senior dog food options categorized into Adult 7+ and Adult 11+ age groups, and Adult 6+ for large breeds. Within each age range, both wet and dry food formulations are available, catering to specific needs like small breeds, large breeds, digestive sensitivities, and cognitive support. This targeted approach ensures that your senior dog receives the precise nutrition they require at each stage of their senior years.
Each Hill’s Science Diet recipe features real chicken or beef as the primary protein source and first ingredient. The formulas also incorporate prebiotic fiber to promote healthy digestion and a balanced gut microbiome, alongside vital nutrients like vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health. Consistent feeding of Hill’s Science Diet has been reported to result in good digestive regularity and fewer dietary issues, highlighting its gentle and effective formulation. While the wet food comes in various flavors and textures, the dry kibble for dogs 7+ currently offers only a chicken and barley flavor.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken & barley | Packaging Size: 4, 15.5, or 30-pound bag
Best Probiotics
Fromm Mature Senior Dry Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Formulated without fillers like corn syrup, artificial flavors, and white flour
- Contains a beneficial blend of probiotics and prebiotics for digestive health
- Real chicken is the first ingredient, accompanied by wholesome ingredients like vegetables, whole grains, and fruits
What We Don’t Like:
- Includes cheese, which may upset some dogs’ stomachs
- Limited availability compared to other brands
Fromm Mature Senior Dry Dog Food is specifically crafted to address the changing nutritional needs of aging dogs, making it an excellent choice for best senior dog food with probiotics. In our survey of 407 dog parents, Fromm garnered high praise for its consistent use of premium ingredients and its ability to satisfy, engage, and delight senior dogs. This formula is designed to provide comprehensive and balanced nutrition in every serving.
The recipe prioritizes chicken as the primary ingredient and incorporates whole grains such as brown rice and barley, along with fruits and vegetables. These high-quality components ensure that senior dogs receive a well-rounded diet rich in essential nutrients. Fromm’s unique blend of prebiotics and probiotics is specifically formulated to optimize digestive function and metabolic processes in older dogs. This focus on digestive health can aid in preventing unwanted weight gain, a common concern for less active seniors. However, it’s worth noting that the senior formula currently comes in a single chicken flavor and includes dairy (cheese) in the ingredients, which might not be suitable for all dogs, although many find it highly palatable.
Fromm dog food is available through online retailers and specialty pet stores. It typically falls into a higher price range compared to some other brands on our list.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Packaging Size: 15 or 30-pound bag
Best Wet Food
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+
What We Like:
- Made with real animal protein sources like chicken, beef, or turkey
- Enriched with antioxidants and probiotics to support immune and digestive health
- Contains glucosamine to promote joint health and mobility
What We Don’t Like:
- Some recipes may include corn starch, protein by-product meal, and/or artificial flavors
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Senior Complete Essentials Wet Dog Food is our pick for the best senior dog food in wet form, providing optimal nutrition for dogs seven years and older, regardless of size. Each recipe is packed with 23 essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring that senior dogs receive comprehensive support for their overall health. Purina Pro Plan also includes glucosamine for joint support, crucial for maintaining mobility in aging dogs, and antioxidants and probiotics to bolster both the immune and digestive systems. All recipes are crafted with high-quality, human-grade ingredients, featuring animal-sourced protein—beef, turkey, or chicken—along with easily digestible rice.
Purina Pro Plan’s wet food formulas are made without artificial colors or preservatives and are conveniently packaged in 13-ounce cans and resealable 10-ounce tubs. The smaller tubs within the senior line also incorporate botanical oils, aiming to promote mental alertness in older dogs. However, some recipes do include artificial flavors to enhance palatability.
Type: Wet | Flavors: Chicken & rice; beef & rice; turkey & rice | Package Size: 10 or 13 ounces
Best Budget
Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food
What We Like:
- Farm-raised chicken is the primary ingredient
- Affordable and widely accessible
- Contains fiber, glucosamine, and antioxidants for senior health
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited to one flavor option
- No specific formula for small breeds
Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food proves that you don’t need to compromise on quality when searching for best senior dog food on a budget. This formula is both affordable and made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients, including farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient. Specifically designed for senior dogs, it incorporates fiber and prebiotics to support healthy digestion, antioxidants to strengthen the immune system, and glucosamine and chondroitin to promote joint health. It also includes supplements aimed at supporting fat burning and maintaining a healthy metabolism in less active senior dogs.
Iams ProActive Health kibble is available in formulas for both regular and large breeds and is made without artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers. The recipe also includes beneficial ingredients like whole grains, beet pulp, and carrots. Its widespread availability at most pet food retailers makes it a convenient and budget-friendly option for senior dog owners.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 7, 15, or 29.1 pounds
Best Subscription
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Personalized meal plans tailored to your dog’s needs
- Made with human-grade ingredients for optimal quality
- Convenient home delivery
- Flexible plan and delivery adjustments
What We Don’t Like:
- Can be expensive, particularly for large breed dogs
For ultimate convenience and customization, The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food is the best senior dog food subscription service. This service delivers fresh, customized meals right to your doorstep, taking the guesswork out of senior dog nutrition. The Farmer’s Dog uses only human-grade ingredients, including high-quality meats and vegetables, in their recipes. They offer four protein options: chicken, turkey, beef, and pork, allowing you to choose based on your dog’s preferences and sensitivities. To create a personalized meal plan, you complete a detailed questionnaire about your dog’s activity level, age, and any health concerns. This ensures that the food is perfectly tailored to your senior dog’s individual needs.
The fresh food arrives frozen and shipping is free to 48 states. You have complete control over your subscription, with the ability to easily modify your plan or delivery schedule at any time. Pricing starts around $2 per day for small dogs, but can increase to about $12 per day for larger breeds. While it might be a pricier option, the convenience, quality, and personalization make The Farmer’s Dog a top contender for discerning senior dog owners.
Type: Frozen | Flavors: Chicken, beef, pork, turkey | Packaging Size: Varies
Best for Large Dogs
Royal Canin Large Aging Dry Dog Food
What We Like:
- Specifically formulated for large breeds (56+ pounds) aged eight and older
- Supports bone and joint health with glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-6 fatty acids, and minerals
- Can be softened with water or mixed with wet food for palatability and easier chewing
What We Don’t Like:
- Contains by-product meal
Royal Canin Large Aging 8+ Dry Dog Food is the best senior dog food tailored for the unique needs of large breed dogs. Large dogs often experience greater stress on their hearts and joints, making targeted nutrition essential, especially as they age. This formula is enriched with taurine, glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids (EPA and DHA) to support cardiovascular and joint health, enhancing the overall well-being of senior large breed dogs.
Royal Canin Large Aging 8+ Dry Dog Food is designed for large dogs weighing between 56 and 100 pounds. A significant portion of dog parents surveyed who feed Royal Canin attribute their dog’s continued health to the brand’s size, age, and breed-specific nutrition. This balanced formula provides optimal levels of protein and fiber to promote smooth digestion in senior dogs. However, the first ingredient is chicken by-product meal, which some pet owners prefer to avoid, though by-product meals are nutritionally dense and contribute to sustainability by utilizing all parts of the animal.
For senior dogs with dental challenges or reduced appetite, the chicken-flavored kibble can be easily softened with water to improve chewability and hydration. It can also be mixed with Royal Canin Mature 8+ Wet Dog Food for added variety and palatability.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 30 pounds
Best Refrigerated
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
- Appeals to picky eaters with its fresh taste and texture
What We Don’t Like:
- No specific senior formula, though suitable for seniors
- Can be less cost-effective for large dogs
FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food delivers the freshness and nutritional benefits of homemade meals with the convenience of pre-packaged food, making it the best senior dog food in the refrigerated category. If your senior dog is a picky eater or has oral sensitivities, the soft texture and savory flavor of FreshPet are likely to be highly appealing. In our home testing, FreshPet’s quality ingredients earned it comparable marks to our Best Overall pick, Hill’s Science Diet.
While FreshPet doesn’t offer a dedicated senior 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 produced in the United States. FreshPet offers grain-free options, as well as formulas targeting specific needs like joint and mobility support and digestive health. However, availability of certain flavors may vary.
FreshPet food comes in sausage-shaped rolls that are easy to slice and serve, and also in resealable bags containing bite-sized, meatball-like pieces.
Type: Refrigerated | Flavors: Chicken; beef with lamb; chicken, beef, salmon, & egg | Package Size: 1.5 or 4.5 pound bags; 1 pound roll
Best for Small Dogs
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Never contains poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility
- Smaller kibble size, ideal for small breeds
What We Don’t Like:
- Currently available in only one flavor
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dog Food is formulated to meet the specific needs of aging small breed dogs, making it the best senior dog food for smaller pups. It aims to maintain their energy levels, joint health, and cognitive function as they age. In our survey, a majority of dog parents feeding Blue Buffalo praised the brand for its consistent use of high-quality, human-grade ingredients.
This dry food features smaller kibble pieces, making it easier for small breed dogs to eat and digest. Manufactured in the USA, the recipe starts with deboned chicken as the first ingredient and incorporates antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and essential nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins. However, the senior small breed formula is currently offered in only one flavor, Chicken & Brown Rice, which may not be suitable for dogs with poultry sensitivities. The kibble is packaged in resealable 5 or 15-pound bags to maintain freshness.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken & brown rice | Package Size: 5 or 15 pounds
Best Sustainable
Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
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What We Like:
- Made with antibiotic, hormone, and steroid-free ingredients
- No artificial ingredients or additives
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support
- Transparent sourcing and ethical partnerships
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited senior-specific recipe options
For environmentally conscious dog owners, Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best senior dog food choice in the sustainable category. Open Farm is committed to ethical sourcing and sustainability, ensuring high-quality nutrition while minimizing environmental impact. Their senior dog food line includes one dry food recipe formulated for older dogs of all sizes, featuring small kibble pieces for easy consumption and digestion.
The 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 raised without hormones, antibiotics, or steroids. Each serving of Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food includes glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health, along with beneficial ingredients like pumpkin, peas, chickpeas, carrots, and coconut oil. Open Farm provides complete transparency about the source of all ingredients used in their dog foods, allowing consumers to trace the origin of every component.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Turkey & chicken | Package Size: 4 or 22 pounds
Final Verdict
For the best senior dog food overall, we recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dry Dog Food. Available in both dry and wet formulas, Hill’s Science Diet is crafted 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 fresh food recommendation. It is rich in protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and its palatable texture makes it a great option for picky eaters or dogs with dental issues.
What to Look for in Dog Food for Older Dogs
Choosing the best senior dog food involves considering several key factors to ensure your aging companion receives the right nutrition for their changing needs. Here’s what to look for:
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy Statement
Always check for an AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement on the dog food label. This statement guarantees that the food is “nutritionally complete and balanced,” meaning it has undergone laboratory testing and feeding trials to confirm it meets the nutritional levels established for a specific life stage, in this case, senior dogs.
Senior dog foods are often formulated with fewer calories compared to adult dog foods, as senior dogs tend to be less active. However, some senior dogs may struggle to maintain weight and may not need reduced-calorie diets. Consulting with your veterinarian is essential to determine the appropriate calorie intake for your individual senior dog.
Senior formulas frequently contain a higher percentage of protein, sometimes up to 50% more than standard adult diets. Veterinarian Megan McCarthy, DVM, explains that this increased protein level helps senior dogs maintain muscle mass, which naturally declines with age. However, it’s crucial to remember that some senior dogs might have medical conditions that necessitate a lower protein diet. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the ideal protein level for your dog’s specific health needs.
Health Issues
When choosing the best senior dog food, it is vital to consider any pre-existing health conditions your dog may have. Many senior dogs develop age-related health issues that can be managed or supported through diet. Common health concerns in senior dogs include:
- Arthritis and Joint Pain: Look for foods enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support joint health and mobility. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, also have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit joint health.
- Cognitive Decline: Some senior dog foods are formulated with antioxidants and specific nutrients like B vitamins, arginine, and omega-3 DHA to support brain health and cognitive function.
- Digestive Issues: Senior dogs can experience digestive sensitivities. Easily digestible proteins, moderate fiber levels, and probiotics can promote healthy digestion.
- Kidney Disease: If your dog has kidney disease, your veterinarian may recommend a diet with restricted phosphorus and moderate protein levels.
- Weight Management: Whether your senior dog needs to lose or gain weight, choosing a formula with appropriate calorie density and fat content is essential.
Discuss any health concerns with your veterinarian to get tailored dietary recommendations for your senior dog.
Common Ingredients in Senior Dog Food
Many best senior dog foods incorporate specific ingredients to address the common needs of older dogs. Reading the ingredient label and discussing it with your veterinarian can help you identify beneficial components:
- Fiber: Increased fiber content aids in easier digestion and can help with bowel regularity, a common concern in senior dogs.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: These supplements are frequently added to senior dog foods to support joint health and reduce the discomfort of arthritis.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA found in fish oil, contribute to healthy skin and coat, and possess anti-inflammatory benefits that can be helpful for joint health and cognitive function.
- Antioxidants: Vitamins E and C, along with other antioxidants, help combat cellular damage from aging and support the immune system.
- Prebiotics and Probiotics: These ingredients promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is crucial for digestion and nutrient absorption, particularly important for senior dogs.
Why We Don’t Currently Recommend 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 canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a heart condition in dogs. Since 2014, the FDA has observed an increase in DCM cases, suggesting factors beyond genetic predisposition may be at play. Notably, a significant percentage of reported cases involved dogs fed “grain-free” dog foods, particularly those containing peas and/or lentils.
While the FDA’s investigation is ongoing, it’s prudent to discuss the potential risks and benefits of grain-free diets with your veterinarian. Currently, there is no definitive conclusion, but it’s important to be informed about the possible connection and make dietary choices in consultation with your vet.
Wet Food Versus Dry Food for Senior Dogs
Both wet and dry dog foods can be part of a healthy diet for senior dogs. Dry dog food typically contains around 10-12% moisture, while wet food averages 75-78% moisture. Dry food is often favored for its convenience and cost-effectiveness. Some veterinarians also recommend dry food for potential dental benefits, although these benefits may be minimal unless a specific tartar-control formula is used.
Wet food can be advantageous for senior dogs for several reasons:
- Hydration: The higher moisture content in wet food can help senior dogs stay better hydrated, especially if they don’t drink water as frequently.
- Palatability: Wet food is often more palatable and appealing to dogs, particularly those with decreased appetite or pickiness.
- Easier Chewing: The softer texture of wet food is easier for senior dogs with dental issues, missing teeth, or oral sensitivities to chew and swallow.
Alternating between wet and dry food can be a good way to combine the benefits of both. Wet food can also be particularly helpful for senior dogs with orthopedic conditions who may have difficulty getting up to drink water frequently.
How We Found The Best Dog Foods For Older Dogs
To identify the best senior dog foods, our research panel conducted a comprehensive evaluation process. We started by creating a detailed questionnaire to understand what qualities are most important to dog owners when choosing food for their senior dogs. We sought information on veterinarian recommendations, ingredient quality, brand trustworthiness, value for money, and retailer availability.
We gathered data on dog size, breed, age, and health history to ensure our recommendations catered to a diverse range of senior dogs. The goal was to identify the best senior dog food for various needs, recognizing that the ideal food for a small breed dog with dental issues would differ from that for a large breed dog with joint concerns.
In total, 407 dog owners participated in our survey, providing feedback on their experiences with different dog food brands they currently feed or have fed in the past. This feedback included numerical ratings and detailed qualitative comments. We also consulted with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue workers to gather expert opinions. Our final selections were based on a combination of owner feedback, expert recommendations, and an analysis of factors like ingredients, flavors, cost, and package sizes.
FAQ About Senior Dog Food
When should you start feeding your dog senior food?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, small dogs are generally considered senior around age seven. Large breed dogs, with typically shorter lifespans, are often considered senior by five or six years old. However, the ideal time to switch to senior dog food depends on individual factors like your dog’s activity level, lifestyle, and any existing medical conditions, as noted by veterinarian Barbara Hodges, DVM, of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association.
Dr. Hodges emphasizes, “Many older pets do have mobility limitations and keeping them lean can be helpful in that regard, so a lower-calorie diet may be appropriate for them if they are wrestling with weight issues. Your senior pet may also have medical challenges such as kidney insufficiency, in which case he/she may need a special renal diet with fairly significant protein restriction. It is therefore important to involve your veterinary healthcare provider in discussions about your senior pet’s evolving dietary needs.”
Veterinarian Megan McCarthy cautions that not all senior dogs need to switch to senior-specific food. “If your dog is already on a special or prescription diet, or has a sensitive stomach, you may want to continue feeding the same ‘adult’ dog food instead of a senior dog food to prevent any issues by switching diets,” she advises. Always consult your veterinarian to determine the best time to transition to senior food for your dog.
Is wet food better for older dogs?
Both dry and wet dog food must meet the same nutritional standards. Dry food is popular for its convenience and lower cost. Some vets recommend dry food for dental health benefits, but unless it’s a tartar-control formula, these benefits may be minimal. Wet food can be more appealing to picky eaters or dogs with certain health conditions.
According to Dr. McCarthy, “Wet food is not necessarily better for older dogs if they are healthy and maintaining their body weight well on a dry diet.” However, she adds, “Dogs with dental disease or missing teeth may benefit from a canned diet for ease of chewing. Certain health conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease may benefit from wet food, but it is best to consult with your veterinarian.”
Dr. Hodges believes wet food is generally better for all dogs, including seniors, as it’s closer to fresh food and provides better hydration. “Wet food is easier to digest and seems to be generally more palatable—and thus, more enthusiastically accepted—by older dogs,” she states. “As dogs age, many also become ‘pickier,’ seeking more novelty in their diets. For this reason, I sometimes suggest rotating among a number of high-quality wet/canned foods.”
Is high protein food better for older dogs?
Dr. Hodges emphasizes that nutrition should be individualized for each dog. “The optimal levels of protein, fat and calories in older dogs’ diets is dependent on their overall health, their body condition/weight, their lifestyle, exercise level and any specific medical conditions,” she explains.
Dr. McCarthy notes that moderate to high protein is generally considered beneficial for senior dogs. “Older dogs are prone to losing muscle mass as they age, so feeding a low protein diet may be detrimental. However, if your dog has a condition such as kidney disease, a low protein or protein-restricted diet is best for maintaining kidney health.” Again, veterinary consultation is key to determine the right protein level for your senior dog.
Should you wet dry food for older dogs?
Whether to wet dry food depends on your individual dog. If your senior dog has dental issues or difficulty chewing, softening dry kibble with water or broth can make eating easier and more comfortable. It also increases hydration.
While Dr. Hodges favors wet food for its digestibility and palatability, she acknowledges the convenience of dry food. “If, for whatever reason, dry kibble is the only option, I recommend adding low/no-sodium broth or water, making a low-fat ‘gravy’ for the dry food,” she suggests.
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?
This article was updated by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets, who is passionate about helping pet owners find the best products for their animals. She draws on her extensive research and personal experience as a dog owner.
Our team conducted a comprehensive survey of dog owners to gather real-world feedback on dog food brands and feeding habits. We analyzed data on dog age, size, breed, and dietary history. We also consulted with veterinarians, trainers, and rescue professionals. Our recommendations are based on a combination of thorough research, expert input, and owner experiences.
We consulted with two veterinarians for their expert insights on senior dog nutrition: Megan McCarthy, DVM, of Best Friends Animal Society, and Barbara Hodges, DVM, program director of advocacy and outreach for the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association.
The Spruce Pets is committed to providing accurate, reliable, and trustworthy information. We use only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts in our articles. Our editorial process ensures that our content is thoroughly fact-checked and reflects the latest scientific understanding.
