Are there foods that senior dogs should avoid?

Being less active, often due to joint problems, and having a slower metabolism means that it’s much more difficult for them to burn the calories that they gain from food. Becoming overweight or obese puts further strain on a dog’s joints and can cause other health issues that reduce their life expectancy. A diet to support ageing should contain antioxidants, high quality protein, reduced levels of phophorus which isn't needed in such quantity and can help to reduce the burden on the kidneys, and extra joint support for those ageing bones and joints. Watch how much you’re giving them – If your older dog is less energetic and burning fewer calories, then it’s easy to give them too much food for their energy requirements. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on the quantity of food to give your dog and remember to weigh it out to avoid giving them too much. Give them access to water – an important part of any dog’s diet is access to clean water. Staying well hydrated can help to keep them healthy. Suddenly switching to any new diet can cause your dog to have an upset stomach. When changing your dog’s diet, it’s usually best to add a small amount of new food to their current one, and gradually change the ratio of old food to new food over 7-10 days.

Senior dogs require a well-balanced diet tailored to support joint health, digestion, and overall vitality. What to Avoid in Senior Dog Diets Excessive Calories & Fatty Foods – Older dogs have slower metabolisms and are prone to weight gain. Artificial Preservatives & Fillers – Many low-quality commercial dog foods contain artificial additives, which can contribute to inflammation and digestive problems. Excess Sodium & Sugar – High sodium levels can worsen heart and kidney conditions, while sugar contributes to obesity and diabetes. Hard-to-Digest Proteins & Grains – While whole grains can be beneficial for some dogs, fillers like corn, wheat, and soy can be difficult for seniors to digest.