As our canine companions enter their golden years, their nutritional needs evolve. Just like humans, aging dogs can experience a range of health issues, from weight fluctuations and arthritis to less obvious changes like a weakened immune system or cognitive decline. Selecting the right diet becomes crucial in mitigating these age-related challenges and ensuring a comfortable, healthy life for your senior dog. This guide dives into the world of Recommended Senior Dog Food, highlighting top brands and key considerations for making the best choice for your furry friend.
When it comes to mature pets, nutrient absorption can become less efficient. Protein quality is paramount in a senior dog food to combat potential muscle loss and support overall vitality. Caloric needs can also vary; some senior dogs become less active and prone to weight gain, while others may struggle to maintain weight.
However, it’s essential to recognize that not every older dog needs to switch to a dedicated senior formula. Dr. Megan McCarthy, DVM, from Best Friends Animal Society, advises caution, particularly for dogs already on specialized diets or with sensitive stomachs. “If your dog is thriving on their current adult dog food, especially a prescription diet, or has a history of digestive sensitivities, sticking with their familiar food might be preferable to avoid any upset caused by dietary changes,” she explains.
To help navigate the options, we’ve rigorously evaluated numerous senior dog food brands, incorporating feedback from over 400 dog owners. Our comprehensive poll gathered insights on preferred brands and their effectiveness across various dog sizes, ages, and breeds. Below are our top recommendations, followed by a detailed guide on what to look for when choosing the best senior dog food for your beloved pet. You can delve deeper into our selection process in the How We Found The Best Dog Foods For Older Dogs section and explore essential features in the What To Look For section.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dog Food at Amazon $81
Best Probiotics:
Fromm Mature Senior Dry Dog Food at Amazon $38
Best Wet:
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ at Amazon $24
Best Budget:
Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Dry Dog Food at Amazon $47
Best Subscription:
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food at Thefarmersdog.com
Best for Large Dogs:
Royal Canin Large Aging Dry Dog Food at Amazon $110
Best Refrigerated:
FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food at Chewy
Best for Small Dogs:
SALE
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior Dog Food at Amazon $20 $17
Best Sustainable:
Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food at Amazon $30
Best Overall
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dog Food
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PHOTO: Hill’s Science Diet
$81 at Amazon $81 at Chewy View on PetSmart
What We Like:
- Developed with veterinarians and scientists in the U.S.
- High-quality, animal-sourced protein as the first ingredient.
- Versatile options including wet food and kibble, suitable for mixing.
- Formulations tailored for small and large breeds, digestive health, and cognitive support.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited flavor options, only available in chicken and barley.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ stands out as our recommended senior dog food overall due to its palatability and strong veterinary endorsement. It’s designed to cater to the nutritional needs of dogs aged seven and older, offering both dry kibble and wet food options. A key feature is the use of real animal protein as the primary ingredient, complemented by human-grade components to ensure essential vitamins and nutrients in every serving.
Hill’s Science Diet products consistently meet or exceed AAFCO nutrient profiles and WSAVA guidelines, reflecting their commitment to quality and nutritional completeness. Manufactured in the United States and formulated by veterinarians, this senior dog food is thoughtfully categorized into Adult 7+, Adult 11+, and Adult 6+ (for large breeds) age groups. Within these categories, you’ll find specific formulations in both wet and dry forms, catering to small breeds, large breeds, dogs with digestive sensitivities, and those needing cognitive support.
Each recipe prioritizes real chicken or beef as the primary protein source, listed as the first ingredient. Furthermore, prebiotic fiber is included to promote digestive health and a balanced gut microbiome. Essential nutrients, including vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, contribute to maintaining healthy skin and coat. Dog owners have reported consistent positive experiences with Hill’s Science Diet, noting improved digestion and fewer dietary issues. The kibble comes in various sizes, and the wet food is conveniently packaged in cans and smaller plastic trays. However, for senior dogs aged 7 and older, the dry food flavor choice is limited to chicken and barley.
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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PHOTO: Fromm
$38 at Amazon View on Gofromm.com View on Petflow.com
What We Like:
- Formulated without fillers like corn syrup, artificial flavors, and white flour.
- Enriched with a blend of probiotics and prebiotics for digestive regularity.
- Real chicken as the first ingredient, combined with vegetables, whole grains, and fruits.
What We Don’t Like:
- Contains cheese, which can be problematic for dogs with dairy sensitivities.
- Less readily available compared to mainstream brands.
Fromm Mature Senior Dry Dog Food is a top recommended senior dog food for digestive health, specifically formulated to address the changing needs of aging dogs. In our survey of over 400 dog parents, Fromm excelled in ingredient quality, overall satisfaction, and positive dog engagement.
This senior-specific recipe uses chicken as the primary ingredient, complemented by whole grains (brown rice and barley), fruits, and vegetables, providing complete and balanced nutrition. Fromm’s unique blend of prebiotics and probiotics is designed to optimize digestive function and metabolism, aiding in healthy weight management. While only available in chicken flavor and containing dairy, which may not suit all dogs, many dogs find it highly palatable.
Fromm dog food is available online and through specialty pet retailers, often at a higher price point than other brands on our list.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Packaging Size: 15 or 30-pound bag
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Best Wet
Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+
PHOTO: Amazon
What We Like:
- Made with real animal protein: chicken, beef, or turkey.
- Fortified with antioxidants and probiotics for immune and digestive support.
- Includes glucosamine for 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 a highly recommended senior dog food in wet form, offering comprehensive nutrition for dogs aged seven and up. Each recipe delivers 23 essential vitamins and minerals to support optimal health in senior dogs. Glucosamine is added for joint support, while antioxidants and probiotics contribute to healthy immune and digestive systems. Formulated with human-grade ingredients, these recipes feature animal-sourced protein like beef, turkey, or chicken, combined with easily digestible rice.
Purina Pro Plan wet food is formulated without artificial colors or preservatives, and is available in 13-ounce cans and 10-ounce tubs with convenient resealable lids. The smaller 10-ounce size, part of the Bright Mind line, also includes botanical oils aimed at promoting alertness in senior dogs. However, it’s worth noting that 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
PHOTO: Amazon
$47 at Amazon $47 at Chewy $30 at Walmart
What We Like:
- Farm-raised chicken listed as the first ingredient.
- Affordable and widely accessible.
- Contains fiber, glucosamine, and antioxidants to support senior health.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited to a single flavor option.
- No specific formula available for small breeds.
Iams Proactive Health Healthy Aging Dry Dog Food proves that a recommended senior dog food doesn’t have to break the bank. This budget-friendly option is made with human-grade ingredients, featuring farm-raised chicken as the primary ingredient. Specifically formulated for senior dogs, it incorporates fiber and prebiotics for digestive health, antioxidants to bolster the immune system, glucosamine and chondroitin for joint care, and other supplements to support fat metabolism and maintain a healthy metabolic rate.
Available in formulas for both regular and large breeds, the kibble is made without artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers. Additional beneficial ingredients include whole grains, beet pulp, and carrots. Iams Proactive Health is widely available at most pet food retailers, making it a convenient and affordable choice.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 7, 15, or 29.1 pounds
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Best Subscription
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
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PHOTO: The Farmer’s Dog
What We Like:
- Offers customized meal plans tailored to individual dog needs.
- Uses human-grade ingredients for superior quality.
- Convenient free delivery service.
- Flexible plan adjustments and delivery scheduling.
What We Don’t Like:
- Can be expensive, particularly for larger dog breeds.
For ultimate convenience and personalized nutrition, The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food is a highly recommended senior dog food subscription service. This dog food delivery service provides customized, fresh meals made with human-grade ingredients, including high-quality meats and vegetables. They offer four recipes featuring chicken, turkey, beef, and pork. To create a personalized meal plan, you complete a detailed questionnaire about your dog’s activity level, age, and any health concerns. You have the flexibility to select or exclude specific proteins based on your dog’s preferences or dietary needs.
Meals are delivered frozen to 48 states with free shipping. You can easily modify your plan or delivery schedule at any time. Pricing starts around $2 per day for smaller dogs, but can increase to approximately $12 daily for larger breeds.
Type: Frozen | Flavors: Chicken, beef, pork, turkey | Packaging Size: Varies
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
Best for Large Dogs
Royal Canin Large Aging Dry Dog Food
PHOTO: Amazon
$110 at Amazon $110 at Chewy $123 $110 at Petco
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.
- Kibble can be mixed with wet food or water for enhanced palatability and easier chewing.
What We Don’t Like:
- Contains by-product meal.
Royal Canin Large Aging 8+ Dry Dog Food is a recommended senior dog food tailored for the unique needs of large breed dogs. Larger dogs often experience greater stress on their heart and joints. This formula is designed to provide targeted support with taurine, glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids (EPA and DHA), all crucial for maintaining well-being as they age.
Royal Canin’s food is formulated for large dogs weighing between 56 and 100 pounds. Dog owners who participated in our survey and feed their dogs Royal Canin frequently attribute their dog’s sustained health to this diet, which is tailored to size, age, and specific needs.
This nutritionally balanced food includes protein and fiber to promote healthy digestion. While the first ingredient is chicken by-product meal, which some owners prefer to avoid, by-product meals are nutrient-rich sources of protein and contribute to reducing food waste by utilizing less expensive animal parts.
For senior dogs with dental issues or reduced appetite, the chicken-flavored kibble can be softened with water to ease chewing and increase hydration. For added variety, you can also combine it with Royal Canin Mature 8+ Wet Dog Food.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Chicken | Package Size: 30 pounds
Best Refrigerated
FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food
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PHOTO: PetSmart
View on Chewy $12 at Petco View on PetSmart
What We Like:
- Made with non-GMO, human-grade ingredients sourced from U.S. farms.
- Free from preservatives, meat meals, and by-product meals.
- Highly palatable, appealing to picky eaters.
What We Don’t Like:
- No specific senior formula, although suitable for senior dogs.
- Can be less cost-effective for large breeds due to portion sizes.
FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food is a recommended senior dog food for those seeking fresh, refrigerated options. It offers the benefits of homemade meals with the convenience of pre-packaged food, requiring refrigeration storage. Its soft texture and savory flavor are particularly appealing to senior dogs who are picky eaters or have oral sensitivities. In our home testing, FreshPet’s quality ingredients were rated on par with our Best Overall pick, Hill’s Science Diet.
While FreshPet doesn’t have a dedicated senior line, all recipes are appropriate for adult dogs of all ages. 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. They offer grain-free recipes and formulations addressing joint and mobility and digestive support, although availability of certain flavors may vary.
The food is packaged in sausage-shaped rolls, easy to slice, and resealable bags containing bite-sized pieces resembling meatballs.
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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PHOTO: Blue Buffalo
$20 $17 at Amazon $42 at Chewy $39 at Walmart
What We Like:
- Never includes poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint and mobility maintenance.
- Features smaller kibble size, ideal for small breeds.
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited to a single flavor option: Chicken & Brown Rice.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dog Food is a top recommended senior dog food specifically designed for smaller breeds. It aims to sustain energy levels, maintain joint health, and support cognitive function in aging small dogs. In our survey, Blue Buffalo was praised by dog owners for its consistent use of high-quality, human-grade ingredients.
The dry food features smaller kibble pieces, making it easier for small breed dogs to eat and digest. Manufactured in the United States, the recipe starts with deboned chicken as the first ingredient and includes antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and essential nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins. However, the flavor is limited to Chicken & Brown Rice, which may not be suitable for dogs with poultry sensitivities.
Available in 5 and 15-pound resealable bags to ensure 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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PHOTO: Amazon
$30 at Amazon View on Openfarmpet.com $30 at Onlynaturalpet.com
What We Like:
- Ingredients are antibiotic, hormone, and steroid-free.
- No artificial ingredients or additives.
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support.
- Emphasizes traceable sourcing and ethical partnerships.
What We Don’t Like:
- Only one senior-specific recipe available.
Open Farm Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the recommended senior dog food for environmentally conscious pet owners. Open Farm’s dog food line includes a dry food recipe specifically optimized for senior dogs. Suitable for all sizes, the Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food features small kibble pieces for easy consumption and digestion. This nutrient-rich kibble is made with humanely raised turkey and chicken as the primary protein sources, listed as the first two ingredients. All ingredients are GMO-free and raised without hormones, antibiotics, or steroids.
Each serving of Senior Grain-Free Dry Dog Food contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health, along with beneficial ingredients like pumpkin, peas, chickpeas, carrots, and coconut oil. Open Farm is committed to ingredient transparency, offering detailed traceability for all components used in their dog foods.
Type: Kibble | Flavors: Turkey & chicken | Package Size: 4 or 22 pounds
Final Verdict
For overall health maintenance in senior dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dry Dog Food is our top recommended senior dog food. Available in both dry and wet food forms, it’s formulated with human-grade ingredients and developed by veterinarians and scientists to meet the specific needs of aging dogs. If you prefer fresh food, FreshPet Vital Balanced Nutrition Dog Food is our leading recommendation. It’s protein-rich and packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and its texture and flavor are appealing to picky eaters or dogs with oral issues.
What to Look for in Dog Food for Older Dogs
AAFCO Nutritional Adequacy Statement
When selecting any dog food, especially recommended senior dog food, ensure it includes an AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) statement verifying it’s “nutritionally complete and balanced.” This statement indicates that the food has undergone laboratory testing and feeding trials to confirm it provides complete and balanced nutrition for a dog’s specific life stage.
Senior dog foods often contain fewer calories compared to standard adult formulas, as senior dogs are typically less active. However, some senior dogs struggle to maintain weight and may not require calorie reduction. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate caloric intake for your dog.
Dr. Megan McCarthy notes that senior formulas often include up to 50% more protein than regular adult diets to help maintain muscle mass, which naturally declines with age. However, some senior dogs may have health conditions requiring a lower protein diet, so always verify the nutritional profile that is best for your pet’s individual health needs.
Health Issues
Senior dog food formulations frequently adjust calorie and protein levels to address common age-related health changes. Reduced activity levels often necessitate fewer calories to prevent weight gain, while maintaining adequate protein is crucial for preserving muscle mass. However, always consider your dog’s individual health status and consult with your veterinarian to address specific dietary requirements related to any health conditions.
Common Ingredients
Many recommended senior dog foods incorporate specific ingredients to support the health needs of older dogs. Carefully review the ingredient label and discuss with your vet which additions might be beneficial for your senior dog:
- Fiber: Aids in easier digestion, often becoming more important as dogs age.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Support joint health and mobility, crucial for managing arthritis and age-related joint issues.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Promote healthy skin and coat, and can also have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Why We Don’t Currently Recommend Grain-Free Dog Foods
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating a potential link between canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a heart condition, and certain diets, particularly grain-free dog foods. Since 2014, the FDA has noted an increased incidence of DCM in dogs, with over 90% of reported cases involving grain-free diets, and 93% of those grain-free formulas containing peas and/or lentils.
The FDA’s investigation is ongoing. In the meantime, it’s advisable to consult with your veterinarian regarding the appropriateness of a grain-free diet for your dog.
Wet Food Versus Dry Food
Dry dog food typically contains 10-12% moisture, while wet food averages 75-78% moisture content. While wet food can aid in hydration, it may also increase tartar buildup. Alternating between wet and dry food can offer a balanced approach.
Wet food is particularly beneficial for picky eaters or dogs with dental problems. If your senior dog has orthopedic issues and reduced mobility, wet food can help ensure adequate hydration.
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The Spruce Pets / Anna Mejorada
How We Found The Best Dog Foods For Older Dogs
Our recommendations for the best senior dog food are based on a rigorous evaluation process. We conducted a comprehensive survey to understand dog owners’ priorities when choosing food for senior dogs. We considered veterinarian recommendations, ingredient quality, brand trustworthiness, affordability, and retailer availability.
We also collected detailed information on dog size, breed, age, and health history to provide tailored recommendations. Over 400 dog owners shared feedback on their experiences with various dog foods, using numerical ratings and detailed comments. This extensive data helped us identify the top recommended senior dog food options for a wide range of dogs.
FAQ
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 shorter lifespans, are often considered senior by five or six.
However, Dr. Barbara Hodges, DVM, of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, emphasizes that the ideal time to switch depends on individual factors like activity level, lifestyle, and health conditions.
“Many older pets experience mobility limitations, and maintaining a lean body weight is beneficial. A lower-calorie diet may be appropriate if weight management is a concern,” she states. “Senior pets may also develop medical issues like kidney insufficiency, potentially requiring a special renal diet with protein restrictions. Consulting with your veterinarian about your senior pet’s evolving dietary needs is crucial.”
Dr. McCarthy also cautions against automatic switches to senior food, particularly for dogs on special diets or with sensitive stomachs.
Is wet food better for older dogs?
Nutritionally, both dry and wet dog foods must meet the same standards. Dry food is popular for its convenience and lower cost. Some vets recommend dry food for dental benefits, though these can be minimal unless using tartar-control formulas, according to Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. However, wet food can be more appealing to some dogs and beneficial for certain health conditions.
Dr. McCarthy notes, “Wet food isn’t inherently better for healthy senior dogs maintaining a good body weight on dry food.”
“Dogs with dental disease or missing teeth may benefit from the softer texture of canned food. Certain conditions like diabetes or kidney disease may also benefit from wet food, but veterinary consultation is advised.”
Dr. Hodges believes wet food is generally superior for all dogs, including seniors, as it more closely resembles fresh food and aids hydration.
“Wet food is easier to digest and often more palatable for older dogs,” she says. “As dogs age, they can become pickier. Rotating through various high-quality wet foods can help maintain their interest in eating.”
Is high protein food better for older dogs?
Dr. Hodges stresses individualized nutrition, stating, “Optimal protein, fat, and calorie levels depend on a senior dog’s overall health, body condition, lifestyle, activity level, and medical conditions.”
However, Dr. McCarthy suggests moderate to high protein is generally beneficial. “Older dogs are prone to muscle loss, so low protein diets can be detrimental. But dogs with kidney disease may require protein-restricted diets for kidney health.”
Should you wet dry food for older dogs?
Again, it depends on the dog. Wetting dry kibble or feeding canned food can ease eating for dogs with dental issues. It also increases hydration.
Dr. Hodges, while favoring canned food, recognizes dry food preference and advises, “If dry kibble is the only option, add low/no-sodium broth or water to create a low-fat ‘gravy’.”
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?
This article was updated by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets with extensive experience researching and reviewing pet products. We also utilized data from a comprehensive survey of over 400 dog owners and consulted with veterinarians Megan McCarthy, DVM, and Barbara Hodges, DVM, for expert insights on senior dog nutrition. The Spruce Pets prioritizes high-quality sources and rigorous fact-checking, as detailed in our editorial process.
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