From when is senior dog food necessary for the dog? This is a question, that every dog owner has to face sooner or later.
But from when is a dog considered a senior? When does he need senior food and what is it suitable?
The following guide answers these and other questions.
When should I switch to senior dog food?
Does the dog have it? eighth yearr is exceeded, his metabolism slowly changes and he needs a diet change to senior dog food.
The older dog is no longer as lively and spirited as it was in its youth.
The immune system works slower and the immunity are therefore no longer as effective as in a young dog.
The joints become stiffer and show signs of wear and tear, and some of the organs no longer work as they once did.
The biggest difference, however, is that sleep count. The dog becomes calmer and sleeps more than one is used to.
Therefore, the dog no longer needs the full one energy inputwhich he has previously received through the feed.
If the dog continues to be fed as usual, he is at risk of becoming overweight.
Since a nutrient deficiency can also develop, it is not advisable to simply reduce the feed intake of the usual food.
Therefore, it is recommended that dogs from the age of eight be fed Senior Dog Food.
Good to know
Once the dog dies half his Life expectancy has exceeded, he is considered Senior.
Since small dogs have a longer life expectancy than large dogs, they are considered senior when they are older.
Reading tip: Not sure if you can «mix wet and dry food» and what effect it will have on your pet? Read our article on this topic and get all the information you need.
The general question: switch to senior – yes or no?
Yes. Since older dogs move much less than young animals, not only the energy requirement is reduced. Less exercise can also lead to digestive problems.
Because, as most dog owners know, a lot of exercise stimulates the dog intestinal activity enormously.
Senior forage is ideal on this problems of aging adapted: It contains less fat and protein, but more fiber.
Due to the higher fiber content, it is easier for seniors to digest.
Senior food is therefore also enriched with all the necessary minerals and vitamins that a dog needs for healthy aging.
In order to avoid secondary diseases, care should also be taken when feeding seniors that the dog does not become overweight.
Which senior foods are particularly good?
The market offers a wide product range of senior dog food.
Since my dog is now also getting to the best age, I have been dealing with a lot of comparisons of the different products lately.
Because a balanced and healthy diet for my dog is very important to me, I have tried to adapt his senior food to his previous diet.
Here are my top 2 senior dog foods:
Bosch Soft Senior Goat & Potato
Bosch Soft Senior with Goat & Potato is a high-quality dog food specially developed for older dogs.
It contains easily digestible ingredients like goat meat and potatoes that support dog’s health.
The food is soft and easy to chew, making it ideal for dogs with dental problems.
It has a pleasant taste that most dogs enjoy.
Overall, Bosch Soft Senior Goat & Potato is an excellent choice for older dogs that need a balanced diet.
At around 4.40 euros per kilogram, the Bosch Soft Senior dog food is a relatively «cheap» food.
Happy Dog Senior
Happy Dog senior dog food contains a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates and nutrients that support dog health.
The food has a good consistency and is well accepted by most dogs. It has a pleasant taste and smells nice.
Compared to Bosch Soft Senior Goat & Potato, Happy Dog Senior has a broader composition of nutrients and proteins.
Overall, Happy Dog Senior is an excellent choice for older dogs that need a balanced diet.
The alternative: make your own food for old dogs
Of course it is also possible to feed your senior to prepare yourself.
Nothing beats home-cooked dog food. So you know exactly what the dog gets and what’s in it.
Every dog has a different one nutritional needs and especially in the area of senior food, the rations must be well adjusted.
If you would like to cook for your four-legged friend yourself in the future, I recommend that you make an appointment with one nutritionist or one nutritionist. This way you can create a plan together with everything your dog needs.
Conclusion
I think senior dog food has its merits, especially when older dogs are struggling.
Accordingly, I see senior dog food as not just a sales strategy, but as an opportunity to still have a lot of your fur nose.
Because as the dog gets older, it not only becomes calmer and more comfortable. The needs that his body places on the dog food also change.
In order to continue having a happy and active dog, I strongly recommend using senior food.
How do you feed your senior? Or maybe you have a good recommendation? Please leave us a comment, we look forward to it!