As our beloved canine companions enter their golden years, ensuring their nutritional needs are met becomes paramount. The world of dog food can be confusing, often clouded by marketing claims. Many owners wonder if a specialized “senior” diet is truly necessary for their aging dog.
Dr. Joseph J. Wakshlag, a professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation, clarifies, “There is no true reason to feed a senior diet to our aging dog unless there are noted problems, such as lean body wasting, arthritis or obesity.” These conditions each necessitate distinct nutritional approaches, meaning a one-size-fits-all senior diet is unlikely to be optimal and consultation with a veterinarian is key. Dr. Wakshlag notes that while slightly higher protein diets are often preferred, many commercial senior diets are actually lower in protein. Additionally, incorporating long-chain omega-3 fatty acids from marine oils can be beneficial, but this often increases fat content, requiring careful selection of fat sources. For comprehensive dietary advice, consider an individualized diet assessment.
Protein: A Crucial Component for Senior Dogs
Lean body mass, which encompasses all of your dog’s non-fat tissues, is vital for overall health. “If the dog is losing lean body mass then a diet higher in protein may be necessary,” states Dr. Wakshlag. Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscles. As dogs age, their natural protein synthesis can decline, increasing their dietary requirements. A reduction in lean body mass is a significant indicator of increased risk for illness and mortality.
It’s important to recognize that both overweight and underweight dogs can suffer from low lean body mass. While excess fat might create an illusion of health in an overweight dog, the underlying muscle tissue may still be deficient. The thighs and shoulders are the easiest areas to assess muscle mass and tone. While some muscle loss can be a natural part of aging, it can also signal underlying diseases like cancer, heart disease, or kidney disease.
The Role of Fatty Acids in Senior Canine Health
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may offer benefits for dogs experiencing arthritis or related mobility issues. However, significant improvements typically require high doses.
To ensure adequate EPA/DHA intake, a 1,000 mg fish oil capsule, typically containing around 300 mg of EPA/DHA, can be administered. Dr. John Loftus, assistant professor of small animal medicine, recommends a dosage of 1-2 capsules per 10 pounds of body weight. For instance, a 50-pound dog experiencing lameness due to arthritis might benefit from 5-10 capsules daily.
Adjusting Caloric Intake for Aging Dogs
Most dogs naturally become less active as they age, leading to reduced energy requirements. If their food intake remains the same as during their prime, this can significantly increase their risk of obesity.
Regularly monitoring your dog’s body condition and weight is crucial for detecting any significant changes. Gradual weight gain can be difficult to notice in one’s own pet, making consistent weigh-ins invaluable. If your dog continues to enjoy long hikes and remains active daily, there’s no need to reduce their food portions. However, if they are spending more time lounging and beginning to gain weight, it’s time to decrease portions or transition to a lower-calorie food.
Palatability: Keeping Your Senior Dog Interested in Food
An aging dog’s senses, including their sense of smell, may diminish. Scent plays a critical role in a canine’s appetite, so a reduced ability to smell food can lead to decreased interest in eating. Your dog might initially refuse standard kibble but readily consume canned food, which generally has a stronger scent and is more palatable.
For dogs experiencing a loss of appetite, appetite stimulants like Entyce (capromorelin oral solution) are available, but they require a prescription from your veterinarian.
Understanding Prescription Diets for Specific Needs
Prescription diets are formulated to address specific health concerns. For instance, Purina JM and Royal Canin Mobility are designed to support dogs with arthritis. Purina NeuroCare can be a beneficial option for dogs suffering from canine cognitive disorder. Additionally, Purina Bright Mind is an over-the-counter diet aimed at supporting brain function. Discussing these specialized options with your veterinarian is essential to determine the most appropriate choice for your individual dog.
Supplements: Supporting Joint and Organ Health
Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can aid in supporting joint health. Other beneficial options include “avocado and soybean unsaponifiables*” and curcumin. S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) is known to support liver health, while omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can contribute to brain function.
When selecting supplements, exercise caution due to the often-unregulated nature of animal supplements. Purchasing products through your veterinarian or a trusted, reputable source is recommended to avoid counterfeit items, which are prevalent online. Products that carry a quality seal from the National Animal Supplement Council have undergone quality control measures to ensure label accuracy. Furthermore, products from reputable brands like Nutramax, such as Cosequin, have scientific studies validating their effectiveness.
Key Considerations for Senior Dog Nutrition
Dr. Loftus recommends several key practices for senior dog nutrition. Consider obtaining an individualized diet assessment to tailor recommendations to your dog’s unique needs. It is also important to remember that optimal nutrition for aging begins long before a dog reaches their senior years. Ultimately, diet recommendations should always be customized to the individual dog. You can schedule a nutrition consultation with Dr. Loftus’ team by filling out an online form.
This article was reprinted with permission from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s DogWatch newsletter. By becoming a member of the Riney Canine Health Center, you will receive a complimentary subscription to DogWatch.
