Is There A Difference In A Senior Dog Diet

Is There a Difference in a Senior Dog Diet?

You hate to admit it, but your furry pal is getting a little older. You want to ensure that your pet is happy and healthy for many years to come. You have heard all of the hype about the new dog diets for older pets. Is there really a difference between dog food for adult dogs and kibble recommended specifically for seniors? How do you know when to switch your pet to a different diet?

The best resource for information about dog diets is your pet's veterinarian. Only you and your vet know the specific needs of your pet the best. Discuss with your vet your concerns and questions. He or she will be able to advise you on what changes, if any, need to be made to your dog's diet.

If your older dog does not have any health problems and maintains a healthy weight, there is no need to change your dog's diet from adult to senior dog food. On the other hand, if your dog has trouble keeping the weight off or digestive issues, you may need to switch. If weight is the only issue, consider slightly lowering the amount of dog food you give to your pet. This may be all the change your dog's diet requires.

A senior dog is classified as a dog in the last third of their life span. Larger dogs, for instance a Great Dane, live to be about 9 years old. Around the sixth year of life, you may want to consider a senior dog's diet. A poodle, on the other hand wouldn't reach senior status until
About age ten due to the longer life expectancy. Primarily, the decision to change your dog's diet should be based on health condition rather than actual age in years. Your vet will help you to determine when the right time is to alter your dog's diet.

Dog food especially prepared for senior dogs typically has less calories. This helps to combat any weight issues. The senior dog food also contains more fiber for the different needs in your dog's diet. As dogs age, they tend to suffer from constipation. This extra fiber will help remedy this problem.

Renal failure can be another medical problem for senior dogs. How can your dog's diet help this problem? Reducing the amount of protein in your dog's diet will decrease the work load for the kidneys. For this reason, senior dog food frequently has lower protein content than regular adult formulas.

Whenever possible, allow your dog to eat dry dog food to encourage excellent dental health. The dry kibble helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. If your older pet refuses to eat the food dry, you may need to moisten it with water or purchase moist, canned varieties.

If your vet recommends, supplements may be helpful as part of your senior dog's diet. Some pets are unable to eat properly due to oral issues. Other older pets are unable to gather all of the nutrients from their food for various health reasons. Supplements such as daily vitamins and glucosamine can be beneficial to maintaining a healthy diet for your dog.

Glucosamine helps to encourage joint health. For senior dogs, glucosamine can combat arthritis and hip displasia.

Vitamins C, A, and E may prevent the natural aging process and encourage better health for senior dogs. Talk to your vet about adding such supplements to your dog's diet.

You want what is best for your pet. Your senior dog needs to have a diet that meets their special nutritional requirements. You and your vet can work together to decide what is the best diet for your senior dog. Your dog's diet directly affects his or her health. Take care of your pet by monitoring your dog's diet closely with the aid of your veterinarian.

 

 
Translate Page Into German Translate Page Into French Translate Page Into Italian Translate Page Into Portuguese Translate Page Into Spanish Translate Page Into Japanese Translate Page Into Korean

More Articles

 

 

Search This Site

 

Related Products And FREE Videos





 

More Articles


Vegetarian Dog Diet

... contain animal products. Your dog's body requires high amounts of protein. Protein is frequently provided through animal tissue and bones in the wild, as well as, in most varieties of manufactured dog diets. Amino acids are also key to your dog's health. Only 12 of the 22 essential amino acids can be ... 

Read Full Article  


When To Change Your Dogs Diet

... thin, or firm? A dog's diet will dramatically affect their outputs. You will be able to tell if your dog's diet is appropriate for them by monitoring potty stops. If your pet is routinely feeling under the weather or becoming ill, you may want to consider what is in the dog dish. The dog's diet is what ... 

Read Full Article  


Make A Natural Dog Diet At Home

... meal and use them throughout the day as treats. Take control over your pet's health by making your dog's diet at home. Avoid processed food that is not as healthy for your pet. Many natural diet options are out there. Speak to your vet about which natural dog diet is best for you and your pet. When the ... 

Read Full Article  


What Is The Green Bean Dog Diet

... bean dog diet, there are a few simple tips to keep in mine. You won't be feeding your dog several cans of green beans a day. Purchase a resealable lid to cover the open can of green beans for easier storage in the fridge between meals. Measure the amount of green beans in your dog's diet just as you would ... 

Read Full Article  


Benefits Of Fiber In Your Dogs Diet

... Combining fiber with strict portion control, you will be able to create a dog diet that is healthy and satisfying for your pet. Again, similar to humans, constipation does occur in pets. Your dog's diet should contain fiber to help prevent this medical condition from occurring. As your dog ages, his or ... 

Read Full Article