Introducing Pro Plan Complete Essentials, a thoughtfully formulated kibble designed to meet the specific needs of senior dogs of all breeds. This food emphasizes real meat as the primary ingredient, ensuring a high-protein content to support muscle maintenance in aging pets. Beyond protein, Pro Plan Complete Essentials is enriched with vital nutrients like probiotics and prebiotic fiber, crucial for maintaining digestive health and a robust immune system in senior dogs. The formulation is free from artificial colors and flavors, and importantly, it contains no carrageenan or potato, making it a suitable option for dogs with sensitivities. With a focus on overall well-being, this food aims to support appetite, gastrointestinal function, immune response, and the health of hips, joints, bones, skin, and coat. Veterinarians frequently recommend Pro Plan for its comprehensive approach to senior dog nutrition.
The primary flavor offered is chicken, and the food comes in a convenient 34.5 lb bag. The kibble is dry and hard, with some formulations also available in shredded or semi-moist options to cater to different palates and chewing abilities.
Key Nutritional Benefits and Ingredients
Pro Plan Complete Essentials for Seniors is crafted with a blend of high-quality ingredients aimed at promoting optimal health in older dogs. The formula begins with real chicken, followed by rice and poultry by-product meal, providing easily digestible protein sources. Whole grains like corn and wheat contribute complex carbohydrates for energy, while corn protein meal and corn germ meal offer additional protein and nutrients.
Fat is preserved with mixed-tocopherols, a natural antioxidant, and includes essential fatty acids from sources like beef fat and fish oil. The inclusion of barley and natural flavor enhances palatability. For bone and joint health, calcium carbonate and a blend of minerals such as zinc, iron, manganese, copper, calcium iodate, and sodium selenite are incorporated.
Vitamins are extensively supplied, including Vitamin E for antioxidant support, Niacin, Vitamin A, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin B-12, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Vitamin D-3, and Biotin. A menadione sodium bisulfite complex provides Vitamin K activity. Choline chloride is added for cognitive function.
A standout feature is the inclusion of L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, a stable form of Vitamin C, and L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, an essential amino acid that aids in protein synthesis and immune function. The digestive health is further supported by Bacillus coagulans fermentation product, a probiotic that promotes a healthy gut microbiome. DL-Methionine is included for its role in protein metabolism and liver function. Finally, garlic oil is added for its potential health benefits.
Guaranteed Analysis and Caloric Content
Pro Plan Complete Essentials for Senior Dogs guarantees a minimum of 29.0% crude protein and 14.0% crude fat, essential for maintaining muscle mass and energy levels in older dogs. The crude fiber content is a maximum of 3.0%, aiding in digestive regularity. Moisture content is capped at a maximum of 12.0%.
The formula contains Linoleic Acid (an Omega-6 fatty acid) at a minimum of 1.8% and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), both Omega-3 fatty acids, at minimums of 0.12% and 0.14% respectively. These fatty acids are vital for skin and coat health, as well as cognitive function. Calcium and Phosphorus are present at minimums of 1.0% and 0.8%, respectively, crucial for bone health. Selenium is included at a minimum of 0.35 mg/kg.
Vitamin A is guaranteed at a minimum of 14,000 IU/kg and Vitamin E at 500 IU/kg, providing antioxidant protection. Vitamin C is at least 70 mg/kg. Glucosamine is included at a minimum of 500 ppm, supporting joint health. The product also contains at least 0.4% Omega-3 fatty acids and 1.9% Omega-6 fatty acids. A minimum of 600 million CFU/lb of Bacillus coagulans ensures probiotic benefits.
The caloric content is approximately 3672 kcal/kg, with each cup containing about 366 kcal. This provides a balanced energy density suitable for senior dogs.
Transitioning Your Dog to Pro Plan
When introducing Pro Plan Complete Essentials to your senior dog, a gradual transition over 7 to 10 days is highly recommended to prevent digestive upset. Begin by mixing a small amount of Pro Plan with your dog’s current food, gradually increasing the proportion of Pro Plan and decreasing the old food each day. This slow adjustment allows your dog’s digestive system to adapt to the new ingredients, ensuring a smoother transition and maximizing the benefits of the new food.
This formulation is specifically designed for senior dogs, aiming to provide comprehensive nutritional support for their changing needs. The focus on digestive health, immune support, and joint care makes it a valuable choice for pet owners looking to maintain their aging companion’s quality of life.
