Best Soft Food for Older Dogs: Top Picks for Senior Canines with Dental Issues

As dogs age, their teeth and gums can become more sensitive, making it difficult for them to chew hard or crunchy foods. This is where soft food comes in, providing a solution for older dogs that still need proper nutrition. Soft food for older dogs can be a great option for pet owners who want to ensure their furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need without causing discomfort.

When it comes to choosing the best soft food for older dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to look for a product that is specifically formulated for older dogs. These products often have added nutrients that support joint health, cognitive function, and immune system health. Additionally, it’s important to choose a soft food that is easy to digest and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives or fillers.

Another critical factor to consider is the texture of the soft food. Some older dogs may have dental issues that require an even softer texture, while others may still be able to handle a slightly firmer texture. It’s important to choose a product that meets your dog’s specific needs.

After researching and testing various soft food options for older dogs, we’ve identified the top products that provide the right balance of nutrition, texture, and digestibility. Whether your dog has specific dietary needs or simply needs a softer food option, our recommendations will help you make an informed decision and keep your furry friend happy and healthy.

Best Soft Food for Older Dogs

As our furry friends age, their teeth and gums become more sensitive, making it difficult for them to chew and digest hard kibble. In such cases, switching to soft food can be a great option to ensure that they receive the necessary nutrients without causing any discomfort. We have compiled a list of the best soft food options for older dogs that are not only easy to chew and digest but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Check out our top picks below.

Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches

If you’re looking for a convenient and tasty soft food for your older dog, Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches might be worth considering.

Pros

• These pouches are incredibly easy to use and require no cleanup.
• The real beef flavor and soft texture are a hit with dogs.
• Each serving supplies high-quality protein for strong muscles.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the texture of this semi-moist food.
• The pouches might not be cost-effective for larger dogs or frequent use.
• This food might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

We recently tried Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches for our senior dog who has trouble chewing hard kibble. The pouches were incredibly easy to use and required no preparation or cleanup. Our dog loved the real beef flavor and soft texture of the food, and we appreciated that each serving supplies high-quality protein for strong muscles.

However, we did notice that some dogs might not like the texture of this semi-moist food, and the pouches might not be cost-effective for larger dogs or frequent use. Additionally, this food might not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities.

Overall, we would recommend Purina Moist and Meaty Steak Flavor Soft Dog Food Pouches for those looking for a convenient and tasty soft food for their older dogs.

Hill’s Science Diet

If you’re looking for a dog food that is tailored to support healthy aging during small and mini dogs’ golden years, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food is a great choice. This senior dog food is specially made with prebiotic fiber to help your little, older dog’s digestion, while the omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil promote joint health.

Pros

• Supports an older little dog’s joints and mobility using omega-3s from fish oil.
• Provides your small-breed dog with balanced minerals that support heart, kidney, and bladder health.
• Maintain your senior dog’s healthy skin and shiny coat with nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• The kibble size may be too small for some dogs.
• Some dogs may experience digestive issues when transitioning to this food.

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food for small-breed senior dogs. The prebiotic fiber helps with digestion, and the omega-3s from fish oil promote joint health. The balanced minerals help support heart, kidney, and bladder health, while the omega-6s and vitamin E nourish the skin and coat. However, some dogs may not like the taste, and the kibble size may be too small for some dogs. Additionally, some dogs may experience digestive issues when transitioning to this food. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is tailored to support your senior dog’s health, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food is a great choice.

PEDIGREE CHOPPED GROUND DINNER Adult Soft Wet Dog Food 18-Count Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a convenient and tasty soft food option for your older dog, the PEDIGREE CHOPPED GROUND DINNER Adult Soft Wet Dog Food 18-Count Variety Pack is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The variety pack contains three different flavors, so your dog won’t get bored with the same taste every day.
• Made with real chicken or beef, this food is sure to please even the most picky eaters.
• The pouches are easy to open, making mealtime hassle-free.

Cons

• This soft food isn’t the healthiest option out there, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with specific dietary needs.
• Some customers have reported issues with the packaging, such as punctured pouches or missing items in the variety pack.
• The food has a strong odor, which may be unpleasant for some pet owners.

In our experience, the PEDIGREE CHOPPED GROUND DINNER Adult Soft Wet Dog Food 18-Count Variety Pack is a convenient and tasty option for older dogs who have trouble chewing harder foods. The variety pack ensures that your dog won’t get bored with the same taste every day, and the real chicken or beef in each pouch is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The pouches are easy to open, making mealtime hassle-free, although some customers have reported issues with the packaging. It’s worth noting that this soft food isn’t the healthiest option out there, so it may not be the best choice for dogs with specific dietary needs. However, if you’re looking for a convenient and affordable option for your furry friend, the PEDIGREE CHOPPED GROUND DINNER Adult Soft Wet Dog Food 18-Count Variety Pack is definitely worth considering.

Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula Dog Food

If you’re looking for a vegan dog food option for your older dog, Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• Provides all the essential nutrients for adult dogs
• Helps rebuild the dog’s immune system
• Contains cranberry powder for a healthy urinary tract

Cons

• Canola oil is used in the recipe, which some may consider unhealthy
• Some dogs may take time to adjust to the new diet
• Availability can be inconsistent

We’ve been using this product for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s health. The cranberry powder has helped maintain a healthy urinary tract, and the all-natural ingredients have helped rebuild our dog’s immune system.

The vegan formula is perfect for dogs with meat-based protein allergies, and it provides all the essential nutrients that adult dogs need. However, some dogs may take time to adjust to the new diet, and the canola oil used in the recipe may be a concern for some. Additionally, we’ve noticed that the availability of this product can be inconsistent.

Overall, we highly recommend Natural Balance Vegetarian Formula Dog Food for older dogs who need a vegan diet. It’s a complete and balanced premium food that has been developed by veterinarians and animal nutritionists.

Muenster Perfect Balance Chicken Meal w/Ancient Grains Dog Food

We highly recommend the Muenster Perfect Balance Chicken Meal w/Ancient Grains Dog Food for older dogs who need soft food. It is a complete and balanced dog kibble that provides unparalleled nutrition and support for your furry friend.

Pros

• Crafted with locally sourced Sorghum and Flaxseed, this non-GMO all stages dog food is packed with essential nutrients, including 24% protein, minerals, and amino acids.
• Our fresh dog food kibble is free from corn, wheat, or soy, ensuring a gentle meal for delicate stomachs. This sensitive stomach dog food is enriched with prebiotics and Diamond V Yeast for improved digestion, and Zinpro Avail pet minerals for skin and coat health.
• Suitable for small, medium, and large breeds, this kibbles and bits dog food accommodates all life stages except for large breed puppies.

Cons

• The high protein and fat levels of this Muenster dog food sensitive skin and stomach provide energy for working and athletic adults, seniors, and pups alike.
• With a calorically dense composition of 3,612 kcal/kg (492.0 kcal/cup), it may not be suitable for dogs who need to lose weight.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

We have been using this dog food for our older dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his energy levels and overall health. The locally sourced ingredients and non-GMO formula give us peace of mind that we are feeding our dog the best possible food. The kibble is also soft enough for our older dog to eat without any issues.

The Muenster Perfect Balance Chicken Meal w/Ancient Grains Dog Food is a great option for older dogs who need soft food that is complete and balanced. The locally sourced ingredients, non-GMO formula, and gentle meal for delicate stomachs make it a great choice for any dog owner looking for high-quality dog food.

Weruva B.F.F. Best Fido Friend Fun Sized Meal Variety Packs, Natural Wet Dog Food Cups Picky Pooch Picnic Variety Pack 1.38 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a soft and delicious meal for your older dog, the Weruva B.F.F. Best Fido Friend Fun Sized Meal Variety Packs might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The variety pack includes four tasty recipes with chicken, duck, sirloin tips, salmon, pumpkin -amp; rice cooked in broth for extra yum!
• All natural, gluten-free, and carrageenan-free, with no wheat, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.
• Complete and balanced meals with sustainably sourced proteins. Cage-free chicken, grass-fed beef, and wild-caught salmon with easy-to-digest rice.

Cons

• The pack only includes eight 2.75oz cups, which might not be enough for larger dogs or for frequent use.
• The food needs to be refrigerated after opening, which might be inconvenient for some pet owners.
• Some dogs might not like the taste or texture of the food.

We have tried the Weruva B.F.F. Best Fido Friend Fun Sized Meal Variety Packs with our older dog, and we were impressed with the quality and variety of the recipes. The cups are easy to open and serve, and the food has a pleasant aroma and texture that our dog seemed to enjoy.

The fact that the food is all-natural and free from artificial additives is a big plus for us, as we want to make sure that we’re feeding our dog healthy and safe food. We also appreciate that the food is complete and balanced, which means that we don’t have to worry about supplementing our dog’s diet with additional nutrients.

However, we did find that the pack only includes eight cups, which might not be enough for larger dogs or for frequent use. We also had to refrigerate the food after opening, which was a bit inconvenient for us as we had to make sure that we had enough space in our fridge.

Overall, we would recommend the Weruva B.F.F. Best Fido Friend Fun Sized Meal Variety Packs to pet owners who are looking for a soft and delicious meal for their older dogs. The variety pack is a great way to introduce your dog to different flavors and proteins, and the all-natural and complete and balanced formula is sure to keep your dog healthy and happy.

Weruva Classic Dog Food, Funky Chunky Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a high-quality soft food for your older dog, Weruva Classic Dog Food, Funky Chunky Chicken Soup is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Made with boneless, skinless white-meat chicken, pumpkin, carrots, and peas
• Grain-free, gluten-free, and carrageenan-free
• Produced in human food facilities with responsibly sourced ingredients

Cons

• May not be affordable for some dog owners
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Some cans may arrive dented or damaged during shipping

We recently tried Weruva Classic Dog Food, Funky Chunky Chicken Soup for our senior dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The chicken is boneless, skinless, and white-meat, which is a great source of protein for older dogs. The pumpkin, carrots, and peas add a nice variety of nutrients and flavor to the food.

One of the best things about this product is that it is grain-free, gluten-free, and carrageenan-free, which is great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies. We also appreciate that it is produced in human food facilities with responsibly sourced ingredients.

However, it’s important to note that this product may not be affordable for some dog owners, as it is a premium brand. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction. Finally, some cans may arrive dented or damaged during shipping, so be sure to inspect them carefully before feeding them to your dog.

Overall, we would recommend Weruva Classic Dog Food, Funky Chunky Chicken Soup for older dogs who need a soft food that is high in protein and free from grains, gluten, and carrageenan.

IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Wet Dog Food Chunks in Gravy Beef, Rice, Carrots -amp; Green Beans Flavor, 12-Pack of 13 oz. Cans Beef -amp; Rice 13 Ounce (Pack of 12)

We highly recommend the IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Wet Dog Food Chunks in Gravy Beef, Rice, Carrots -amp; Green Beans Flavor for older dogs who need soft food. This high-quality wet dog food is made with real beef, rice, carrots, and green beans in a savory broth for a delicious taste dogs can’t get enough of.

Pros

• Wholesome Nutrition: IAMS classic chunks in gravy is a nutritious meal made with high-quality animal protein, vitamins, and minerals that help support your dog’s health.
• Healthy Skin and Coat: Wholesome, balanced, and nutritious canned dog food formulated with omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a soft coat.
• Made with Real Beef: IAMS Wet Dog Food is made with hearty, premium ingredients, including real beef, and slow-cooked in broth for a taste dogs can’t resist.

Cons

• Some dogs might not like the taste.
• The food may be a bit too soupy for some owners’ liking.
• The cans may arrive dented.

We found that this wet dog food is easy to serve and digest. It offers complete and balanced nutrition through added vitamins and minerals to keep your adult dog at optimal health. Plus, it is formulated with omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a softer coat.

The IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Adult Wet Dog Food Chunks in Gravy Beef, Rice, Carrots -amp; Green Beans Flavor comes in a pack of 12 cans, each weighing 13 ounces. It is recommended for adult dogs that are 1 year old or older. We think this product is a great option for older dogs who need a soft food diet.

Purina Moist and Meaty Dog Food Chopped Burger Soft Dog Food Pouches – 36 ct. Pouch 36 Count (Pack of 1) Other

If you’re looking for a convenient and tasty soft dog food for your furry friend, Purina Moist and Meaty Dog Food Chopped Burger is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with real beef, which is a great source of protein for dogs
• Comes in individual pouches, making it easy to serve and store
• Has a soft and meaty texture that dogs love

Cons

• Contains some fillers and artificial ingredients
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture

We recently tried Purina Moist and Meaty Dog Food Chopped Burger for our older dog who has trouble chewing hard kibble. We were pleased to find that she loved the taste and texture of this soft dog food, and it was easy for her to eat.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it comes in individual pouches, which makes it easy to serve and store. We also like that it’s made with real beef, which is a great source of protein for dogs.

However, we did notice that this dog food contains some fillers and artificial ingredients, which may not be ideal for all dogs. Additionally, if your dog has any dietary restrictions, you’ll want to check the ingredient list carefully to ensure that this dog food is a good fit.

Overall, we think Purina Moist and Meaty Dog Food Chopped Burger is a great option for dogs who prefer soft food or have trouble chewing. While it may not be suitable for all dogs, it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a convenient and tasty soft dog food option.

Blue Buffalo Delectables Grain Free Natural Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty meal topper for your older dog, we recommend the Blue Buffalo Delectables Grain Free Natural Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack.

Pros

• The texture and flavor of the beef or chicken combined with garden veggies in a savory gravy is irresistible to dogs.
• This wet food can be used as a topper for dry food or as a healthy snack on its own.
• The single-serve pouches are easy to open and store, making mealtime quick and convenient for you and delicious for your dog.

Cons

• Some customers find the pouches to be too small for larger dogs or for use as a standalone meal.
• The price point may be higher than other wet food options on the market.
• A few customers have reported that their dogs did not enjoy the taste of the product.

We have found that the Blue Buffalo Delectables wet dog food is a great addition to our older dog’s diet. The high-quality chicken or beef steeped in a savory broth with nutritious veggies provides a flavorful and healthy meal. We especially appreciate the convenience of the single-serve pouches, which make mealtime quick and easy.

While some customers have reported that the pouches are too small for larger dogs or for use as a standalone meal, we find that they work well as a topper for dry food or as a healthy snack on their own. The only downside we have found is that the price point may be higher than other wet food options on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Delectables Grain Free Natural Wet Dog Food Topper Variety Pack for any pet owner looking for a tasty and healthy addition to their older dog’s diet.

Buying Guide

When choosing soft food for older dogs, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the best product for your furry friend. Here are some features to look for when selecting soft food for your senior dog:

Texture

The texture of the food is crucial when choosing soft food for older dogs. It should be easy to chew and swallow, especially for dogs with dental issues. Soft food with a smooth texture is ideal for senior dogs as it is easier for them to eat and digest.

Nutritional Value

Senior dogs have different nutritional requirements than younger dogs. When selecting soft food for your older dog, ensure that the food is nutritionally balanced and meets the specific needs of senior dogs. Look for food with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

It is essential to check the ingredients list when selecting soft food for your senior dog. Avoid food with artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. Opt for food with natural ingredients, and avoid fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy.

Packaging

The packaging of the food is also an important factor to consider. Ensure that the packaging is easy to open and store. Look for food that comes in resealable packaging to keep the food fresh for longer.

Price

Price is also a crucial factor to consider when selecting soft food for older dogs. However, do not compromise on the quality of the food for the price. Look for soft food that provides good value for money and meets your dog’s nutritional needs.

In summary, when selecting soft food for your senior dog, consider the texture, nutritional value, ingredients, packaging, and price. By considering these factors, you can select the best soft food for your older dog that meets their nutritional needs and is easy for them to eat and digest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended soft foods for senior dogs?

There are several vet-recommended soft foods for senior dogs, including Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Savory Stew, Royal Canin Aging 12 Canned Dog Food, and Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7 Chicken and Rice Entree. These soft foods are formulated with high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients to support the overall health and wellbeing of senior dogs.

Which soft kibble brands are best suited for older dogs with dental issues?

For older dogs with dental issues, soft kibble brands such as Royal Canin Dental Care and Hill’s Science Diet Oral Care are highly recommended by vets. These soft kibbles are designed to promote dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup, while also providing essential nutrients for senior dogs.

What are the healthiest wet food options for elderly dogs?

Some of the healthiest wet food options for elderly dogs include Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior Chicken Dinner, Wellness Complete Health Senior Formula, and Nutro Ultra Senior Wet Dog Food. These wet foods are made with high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients to support the overall health and wellbeing of senior dogs.

How can I ensure my senior dog is getting proper nutrition from soft foods?

To ensure that your senior dog is getting proper nutrition from soft foods, it is important to choose high-quality soft foods that are specifically formulated for senior dogs. Additionally, it is important to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the manufacturer and to consult with your vet to determine the appropriate feeding schedule and portion sizes for your senior dog.

What soft dog foods are specifically formulated for senior dogs with arthritis?

Some soft dog foods that are specifically formulated for senior dogs with arthritis include Hill’s Prescription Diet j/d Canine Mobility, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Mobility Support, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets JM Joint Mobility. These soft foods contain essential nutrients and ingredients that can help support joint health and mobility in senior dogs with arthritis.

Are there any soft dry dog foods that cater to the needs of older small breed dogs?

Yes, there are several soft dry dog foods that cater to the needs of older small breed dogs, including Royal Canin X-Small Aging 12 Dry Dog Food, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 7 Dry Dog Food, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe. These soft dry foods are specifically formulated with high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients to support the unique nutritional needs of older small breed dogs.