Best Dog Foods for Older Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Health

As our furry friends age, their dietary needs change. Older dogs require specific nutrients to maintain their health and wellbeing. One way to ensure that your dog is getting the right nutrients is by feeding them high-quality dog food designed for senior dogs. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best dog foods for older dogs.

When it comes to choosing the right dog food for your senior dog, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to make sure that the food is easy to digest and won’t cause any digestive issues. Second, you want to look for food that is high in protein, as this will help your dog maintain muscle mass. Finally, you want to make sure that the food is low in calories to prevent your dog from gaining weight.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the ones that are best for older dogs. In the following sections, we’ll be discussing our top picks and what makes them stand out.

Best Dog Foods for Older Dogs

As our furry friends age, their nutritional needs change. It’s important to feed them a diet that supports their aging bodies and provides them with the necessary nutrients for a healthy and happy life. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best dog foods for older dogs based on ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews. Whether your senior dog has specific dietary needs or just needs a little extra TLC, we’ve got you covered.

IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken, 29.1 lb. Bag Chicken 29.1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dry dog food for your mature or senior dog, then IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider. With real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient, this dog food is formulated to support healthy bones and joint health with a balance of key nutrients formulated for senior dogs. It also contains a blend of fiber and prebiotics to promote healthy digestion, and antioxidants to support a strong immune system.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken, which is a great source of protein for dogs.
• The blend of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion, which is important for older dogs.
• The antioxidants in this dog food help support a strong immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs.

We’ve been feeding our senior dog IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog seems to enjoy the taste of the food, and we’ve noticed that his digestion has improved since we started feeding him this food. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives, flavors, or fillers.

One thing to keep in mind is that the kibble size of this dog food may be too large for some dogs, especially those with dental issues. Additionally, while this dog food is suitable for most dogs, it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Overall, we would definitely recommend IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food for their mature or senior dog.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini Dry Dog Food, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that will help your aging small breed dog maintain their vitality and energy, Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini dog food is worth considering.

Pros

• Improves everyday ability to get up and go for adult small breed dogs age 7 plus
• Dry dog food to support brain health, interaction, energy and vitality
• Promotes a healthy coat with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other dog food brands

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini dog food for our 10-year-old Chihuahua mix. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the fact that it’s made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.

Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food and we noticed an improvement in her energy levels and overall health. The small bites were easy for her to chew and digest, and we appreciated that the food was formulated to support brain function and heart health.

While the price is higher than some other dog food brands, we feel that the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on our dog’s health is worth the extra cost.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini dog food to other pet owners looking for a high-quality food to support their aging small breed dog’s health and vitality.

Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a senior dog food that is specifically tailored to meet the nutritional needs of small and mini dogs, Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food is a great option.

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 of the food
• The kibble is small and may not be suitable for larger breeds
• The price may be higher than other dog foods on the market

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food for our senior Chihuahua for the past few months and have been impressed with the results. The omega-3s from fish oil have helped to support her joints and mobility, and we’ve noticed an improvement in her overall health. The balanced set of minerals has also helped to support her heart, kidney, and bladder health. We’ve also noticed that her coat is shinier and her skin is healthier thanks to the nourishing omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E.

While our dog loves the taste of this food, we’ve heard from other dog owners that their dogs may not enjoy the taste as much. Additionally, the kibble is quite small, which may not be suitable for larger breeds. The price of Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food may also be higher than other dog foods on the market, but we believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws™ Adult 11 dry dog food for small and mini senior dogs who need tailored nutrition to support healthy aging.

IAMS Healthy Aging Adult Dry Dog Food for Mature and Senior Dogs with Real Chicken, 15 lb. Bag Chicken and Whole Grain 15 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that is specifically tailored to the needs of your senior dog, IAMS Mature Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option. We highly recommend this product for its balanced nutrients, wholesome ingredients, and overall effectiveness in supporting your dog’s health and wellness.

Pros

• Featuring real, farm-raised chicken as the first ingredient, this dry dog food is formulated to support healthy bones and joint health with a balance of key nutrients for senior dogs
• A blend of fiber and prebiotics promotes healthy digestion, while antioxidants support a strong immune system
• Made with high quality animal protein and no artificial preservatives, flavors or fillers, for complete and balanced nutrition

Cons

• The kibble size may be too large for some dogs, especially those with dental issues or smaller breeds
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste or texture of the food
• The price point may be higher than other dog food brands on the market

We recently tried IAMS Mature Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our senior dog, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and texture of the food, and we noticed an improvement in his digestion and overall energy levels.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the high quality of ingredients. We appreciate that real chicken is the first ingredient, and that there are no artificial preservatives or fillers in the formula. Additionally, the blend of fiber and prebiotics helped to regulate our dog’s digestion, which is especially important as dogs age.

Another benefit of this dog food is that it is specifically formulated for senior dogs, with a balance of key nutrients to support healthy bones and joint health. We noticed that our dog seemed to have more mobility and less stiffness after switching to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Mature Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for anyone looking for a high quality, balanced dog food for their senior dog. While the price point may be higher than some other brands, we believe the benefits are well worth it for the health and wellness of your furry friend.

IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for Small Dogs with Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a dog food that meets the specific nutritional needs of your small breed adult dog, IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken is a great option.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken, which helps maintain your dog’s skin and coat health with omega-6 fatty acids.
• Quality-sourced protein in the kibble helps build strong muscles in your small breed dog.
• Antioxidants in the food support your dog’s immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The kibble pieces may be too large for some small breed dogs.
• The food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies.

We recently tried IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our senior small breed dog and were pleased with the results. The kibble size was perfect for our dog, and she seemed to enjoy the taste of the food. We also noticed an improvement in her coat health and overall energy level after switching to this food.

One thing to note is that the kibble pieces may be too large for some small breed dogs, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s eating habits and adjust the serving size as needed. Additionally, the food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, so be sure to check the ingredients list before purchasing.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken to other small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritionally balanced food for their furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini Dry Dog Food, 3.5 lb. Bag

If you want to give your aging small breed dog a healthy and nutritious meal, then Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini dog food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Improves everyday ability to get up and go for adult small breed dogs age 7 plus
• Promotes a healthy coat with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids
• Easy-to-digest ingredients for healthy digestion

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit pricey compared to other dog food brands

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini dog food for our 10-year-old Chihuahua for several months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his energy levels and coat shine. The food is easy for him to digest, and we’ve had no issues with his stomach.

The kibble size is perfect for small breeds, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste. However, we did notice that some dogs may not like the flavor, so it’s best to try a small bag first before committing to a larger one.

The only downside we’ve noticed is that the food is a bit pricey compared to other dog food brands, but we believe that the quality ingredients and nutritional value make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Small -amp; Mini dog food for small breed dogs age 7 and older. It’s a great way to support their overall health and vitality.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult 7 for Senior Dogs, Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Rice Recipe, 5 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 5 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult 7 for Senior Dogs, Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Rice Recipe, 5 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 5 Pound (Pack of 1) for older dogs. This dog food is formulated specifically to meet the aging needs of adult dogs.

Pros

• Provides easy-to-digest ingredients to support the energy -amp; activity levels in adult dogs
• Uses a balanced set of minerals to promote strong heart and kidney health
• Provides Omega-6s -amp; vitamin E for healthy skin -amp; coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
• The kibble size may be too big for smaller dogs
• The price may be higher than other dog food brands

We have been feeding our senior dog Hill’s Science Diet for a few years now and have seen a noticeable improvement in his energy levels and coat health. The high-quality protein in the dog food helps maintain lean muscle in grown dogs, which is important for older dogs. The balanced set of minerals in the food also promotes strong heart and kidney health, which is essential for older dogs. Additionally, the Omega-6s and vitamin E in the dog food help keep our dog’s skin and coat healthy and shiny.

While our dog loves the taste of the food, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs may not enjoy the taste as much. The kibble size may also be too big for smaller dogs, so it’s important to check if the size is appropriate for your dog. Lastly, the price of Hill’s Science Diet may be higher than other dog food brands, but we believe it’s worth the investment for our dog’s health and well-being.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult 7 for Senior Dogs, Chicken Meal, Barley -amp; Rice Recipe, 5 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 5 Pound (Pack of 1) for older dogs. It’s a great investment for your dog’s health and we have seen the benefits firsthand.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Senior Vitality Dry Dog Food, 3.5 lb. Bag White 56 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help your aging furry friend maintain their energy and vitality, Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Senior Vitality Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This dry dog food is designed to support brain health, interaction, energy, and vitality in adult dogs aged 7 and up.
• The ingredients in this dog food are easy to digest, which can help support healthy digestion in older dogs.
• This dog food includes clinically proven antioxidants, vitamins C E, which can help support a healthy immune system in older dogs.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may be more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Some pet owners have reported that the packaging of this dog food can be difficult to open.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Senior Vitality Dry Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve been quite pleased with the results. Our older dog seems to have more energy and seems to be more engaged with us and with other dogs when we’re out and about. We also appreciate that the ingredients are easy to digest, as our dog has had some digestive issues in the past.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not love the taste of this dog food. Our dog doesn’t seem to mind it, but we’ve heard from other pet owners that their dogs have been a bit picky about it. Additionally, this dog food may be more expensive than some other options on the market, so it may not be the best choice for pet owners on a tight budget. Finally, we’ve found that the packaging can be a bit difficult to open, which can be frustrating when you’re in a hurry.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Senior Vitality Dry Dog Food to pet owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food that can help support their aging dog’s energy and vitality.

Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula

If you’re looking for a dog food that is specially formulated for senior dogs, then Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The MCT-rich vegetable oil in this dog food nourishes and promotes mental sharpness, which is especially important for senior dogs.
• The dry high protein dog food starts with real chicken as the number 1 ingredient and supports strong muscles, including a healthy heart.
• This dog food features omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog’s shiny coat and healthy skin, plus natural sources of glucosamine for dogs to promote joint health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food may be a bit more expensive than other brands.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.

We recently switched our senior dog to Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula, and we’ve been very happy with the results. Our dog seems to have more energy and is more alert since we started feeding him this dog food. We also like that this dog food is made with 0 percent fillers and features a highly digestible formula.

The deliciously crunchy bites and tender meaty morsels provide the Purina ONE dry dog food taste and textures dogs love and work with added calcium to support strong teeth and healthy gums. This complete and balanced adult dog dry food features an easily digestible SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients and is crafted in Purina-owned, U.S. facilities. We appreciate that Purina takes steps to make it good for our dog and good for the environment, like reducing water and using renewable electricity.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE High Protein Dry Senior Dog Food Plus Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Formula for senior dogs.

Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend the Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for older dogs looking for a well-balanced diet.

Pros

• The high-quality ingredients, including prebiotic fiber, support gut health and a strong immune system.
• Real chicken as the first ingredient provides protein for strong muscles and a healthy heart.
• The added vitamins, minerals, and natural sources of glucosamine promote joint health and bright eyes.

Cons

• The kibble may be too crunchy for some dogs with dental issues.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store for those with limited space.

We’ve been using Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food for our older dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his energy levels and coat health. The kibble is easily digestible and the added vitamins and minerals have helped to support his overall health. We appreciate that real chicken is the first ingredient and that the kibble has natural sources of glucosamine to promote joint health. However, we have noticed that the kibble may be too crunchy for some dogs with dental issues, and some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble. Additionally, the bag is quite large and may be difficult to store for those with limited space. Overall, we highly recommend this dog food for older dogs looking for a well-balanced diet.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for your older dog, there are a few key factors to consider. We want to make sure that the food we choose provides all the necessary nutrients to keep our furry friends healthy and happy. Here are some features to look for when selecting the right dog food for your senior pup:

Nutritional Requirements

Older dogs have different nutritional requirements than younger dogs, so it’s important to choose a food that meets their specific needs. Look for a food that is high in protein, low in fat, and contains plenty of vitamins and minerals. It’s also important to choose a food that is easy to digest, as older dogs may have more trouble with digestion.

Ingredients

When choosing a dog food for your senior pup, it’s important to read the ingredients list carefully. Look for high-quality protein sources, such as chicken or lamb, as well as whole grains and vegetables. Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, as these can be harmful to your dog’s health.

Type of Food

There are many different types of dog food available, including dry kibble, wet food, and raw food. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that works best for your dog. Dry kibble is convenient and easy to store, while wet food can be more palatable for dogs with dental issues. Raw food can be a good option for dogs with food allergies, but it requires more preparation and can be expensive.

Price

Price is always a consideration when choosing a dog food, but it’s important to remember that quality comes at a cost. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper food, it’s important to make sure that it provides all the necessary nutrients for your dog’s health. Look for a food that is affordable but also high-quality.

By considering these factors when choosing a dog food for your older dog, you can ensure that you are providing them with the best nutrition possible. Remember to consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top vet-recommended diets for senior dogs?

At our clinic, we often recommend diets that are specifically formulated for senior dogs. Some of the top vet-recommended diets for senior dogs include Hill’s Science Diet Senior Dog Food, Royal Canin Small Aging 12 Dry Dog Food, and Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7 Senior Chicken -amp; Rice Formula.

Which soft dry foods are suitable for older dogs with dental issues?

If your senior dog has dental issues, we recommend looking for soft dry foods that are easy to chew and won’t cause discomfort. Some of the best options include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Formula, Nutro Ultra Senior Dry Dog Food, and Wellness Complete Health Senior Dry Dog Food.

What are the best dog food options for senior small breed dogs?

Small breed dogs have different nutritional needs than larger breeds, especially as they age. Some of the best dog food options for senior small breed dogs include Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior Formula, Royal Canin Small Aging 12 Dry Dog Food, and Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 7 Senior Dry Dog Food.

How should I alter my senior dog’s diet if they have allergies?

If your senior dog has allergies, it’s important to work with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for their specific needs. In general, we recommend looking for hypoallergenic dog foods that are free from common allergens like wheat, soy, and corn. Some good options include Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet Senior Formula, Hill’s Prescription Diet z/d Canine, and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP Dry Dog Food.

What homemade diets are beneficial for aging dogs?

While homemade diets can be a good option for some dogs, it’s important to ensure that they are nutritionally balanced and meet your senior dog’s specific needs. Some homemade diets that can be beneficial for aging dogs include cooked chicken or turkey with brown rice and vegetables, or a mix of cooked ground beef, sweet potato, and green beans.

What foods are recommended for older dogs suffering from arthritis?

If your senior dog is suffering from arthritis, we recommend looking for dog foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, which can help support joint health. Some good options include Hill’s Prescription Diet j/d Joint Care, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Mobility Support JS, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior Formula.