Mary Allen
They are real sweethearts, the grandpas, and grandma among the dogs. When more white hair grows around the snout and they prefer to sleep most of the day instead of romping around, their dietary requirements also change.
Therefore, pay attention to these criteria when choosing the food for your oldie:
- Balanced nutrient balance
- Low energy density
- Reduced protein content
- Cell protection support
- Easy feed intake
Balanced Nutrients
Of course, also avoid over-or undersupply of nutrients, bulk, and trace elements as well as vitamins in older dogs. This serves to maintain health – even in old age! If one or the other ailment has already occurred, it is better to clarify with your veterinarian in advance whether care should be taken that is adapted to the illness. Otherwise, your senior is well looked after with a high-quality complete feed that takes the needs of older dogs into account.
Low Energy Density
It is obvious that a senior dog no longer needs to consume as much energy with food. Anyone who prefers a well-groomed nap to wild play simply consumes less. And the metabolism is also dependent on fewer calories. Too much energy now leads to rapid weight gain, which you better avoid. Being overweight puts unnecessary strain on aging joints.
Reduced Protein Content
You might be wondering, “Well, why is that? After all, the dog is a predator and meat contains a lot of protein!” That’s right. We are happy to explain it to you: Proteins have two main purposes for the dog: the supply of amino acids (small building blocks for the body) and energy production. In order to ensure an adequate supply of amino acids, an old dog needs a certain amount of high-quality protein. However, for energy generation, it is advantageous to feed older dogs carbohydrates instead of proteins. This means that fewer degradation products are produced, which in turn is gentle on the liver and kidneys.
Cell Protection Support
Make sure you have a sufficient supply of antioxidants to ensure cell protection in old age. Why and what for? Quite simply: They intercept radicals. This is not about politics, but about biochemistry. Radicals are atoms or molecules with unpaired valence electrons and… Ok, STOP!
Before we dive into the depths of science: Radicals can damage cells, antioxidants (e.g. vitamin E) prevent this. Note the antioxidants in senior food.
Light Feed Intake
Long, intensive chewing is often difficult for older dogs. With one oldie it’s the teeth, with the other it’s too exhausting. The food should therefore be easy to pick up. We recommend feeding wet food or dry food with a small kibble. If you prepare it yourself, it is best to cut large pieces and serve small bites.
Would you like to learn more about the species-appropriate nutrition of dogs?
Here are the posts:
- Baby Alert – Food selection for young dogs
- Don’t act grown-up – food choices for adult dogs
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