Is There a Difference in a Senior Dog Diet?

You hate to admit it, but your furry friend is a little older. You want to make sure your pet is happy and healthy for many years to come. I've heard all the hype about the new canine diet for older pets. Is there really a difference between dog food for adult dogs and food specifically recommended for the elderly?  ?How do you know when your pet has switched to a different die

The best resource for information about a canine diet is your pet's veterinarian. Only you and your veterinarian know the specific needs of your pet better. Discuss your concerns and questions with your veterinarian. He will be able to advise you on what changes, if any, to make to your dog's diet.

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

An elderly dog ​​is classified as a dog in the last third of its life. Older dogs, for example, the Great Dane, live about 9 years. Around the sixth year of life, you may want to consider a senior citizens' diet. On the other hand, a Poodle will not even get to rank very much

Around the age of ten due to its long life expectancy. Primarily, the decision to change your dog's diet should be based on the state of health rather than the actual age in years. Your veterinarian will help you determine the right time to change your dog's diet.

Dog food specially formulated for older dogs usually contains fewer calories. This helps combat any weight problems. Big dog food also contains more fiber to meet the different needs in your dog's diet. As dogs get older, they tend to suffer from constipation. This additional fiber will help treat this problem.

Kidney failure can be another medical problem for older dogs. How can your dog's diet help with this problem? Reducing the amount of protein in your dog's diet will reduce the workload on the kidneys. For this reason, food for older adults often contains less protein than regular adult formulas.

Whenever possible, allow your dog to eat dry dog ​​food to encourage excellent dental health. Dry cable helps reduce plaque and tartar build-up. If your older pet refuses to eat dry food, you may need to moisten it with water or buy moist, canned varieties.

If recommended by a veterinarian, supplementation may be helpful as a part of a senior's diet. Some pets are unable to eat properly due to mouth problems. Other older pets are not able to collect all the nutrients from their food for various health reasons. Nutritional supplements like daily vitamins and glucosamine can be helpful in maintaining a healthy diet for your dog.

Glucosamine helps promote joint health. For elderly dogs, glucosamine can combat arthritis and hip displacement.

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

You want what's best for your pet. Your older dog needs a diet that meets his own special nutritional requirements. You and your veterinarian can work together to determine the best diet for your senior dog. Your dog's diet directly affects his health. Take care of your pet by closely monitoring your dog's diet with the help of your veterinarian.