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 fibre
for the different needs in your dog's diet. As dogs age, they tend to suffer
from constipation. This extra fibre 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.
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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.
