As our canine companions enter their golden years, their nutritional needs evolve. The advice surrounding senior dog diets can be confusing, often influenced by marketing rather than scientific consensus. Many owners wonder if a specialized senior diet is truly necessary for their older dog. According to Dr. Joseph J. Wakshlag, a professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation, “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 demand a unique nutritional strategy, meaning a one-size-fits-all approach for senior dogs is not feasible and discussions with your veterinarian are crucial. He further explains, “Typically, we like to see slightly higher protein diets; however, many of the senior diets on the market are lower protein. We like to see more long chain omega-3 fatty acids using marine oils, but in the end, this increases fat, so we have to be careful of the fats we use.”
Prioritizing Protein for Senior Dogs
Lean body mass, which encompasses everything in your dog except fat, is a critical indicator of health in aging dogs. Dr. Wakshlag emphasizes, “If the dog is losing lean body mass then a diet higher in protein may be necessary.” Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle. As dogs age, their natural protein synthesis often declines, making dietary protein increasingly important. A decrease in lean body mass is associated with a higher risk of illness and mortality. It’s important to note that both overweight and underweight dogs can experience a loss of lean body mass. An overweight dog might appear healthier due to retained fat, but both are deficient in muscle tissue. The thighs and shoulders are key areas to assess muscle mass and tone. While 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 Nutrition
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), can offer significant benefits for dogs experiencing arthritis or other mobility issues, though high doses are typically required to observe improvements. Dr. John Loftus, an assistant professor of small animal medicine, suggests that to ensure adequate EPA/DHA intake, a 1,000 mg fish-oil supplement capsule, usually containing about 300 mg of EPA/DHA, can be administered at 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. These supplements can be crucial for maintaining joint health in aging pets.
Adjusting Caloric Needs for Older Dogs
As dogs age, their activity levels typically decrease, leading to lower energy requirements. This shift increases their susceptibility to obesity if their food intake remains unchanged from their younger, more active years. Regularly monitoring your dog’s body condition and weighing them is vital for detecting significant changes. Subtle weight gain can be easily overlooked in one’s own pet, making consistent weigh-ins essential. If your dog maintains an active lifestyle with daily long hikes, there’s no need to reduce their food portions. However, if they’re spending more time lounging and beginning to gain weight, it’s time to adjust portion sizes or transition to a lower-calorie food.
Enhancing Palatability for Better Appetite
An aging dog’s senses, including their sense of smell, may diminish over time. Scent plays a significant role in a dog’s appetite; if they cannot smell their food, they may lose interest in eating. Your dog might initially refuse dry kibble but readily consume wet or canned food, which often has a stronger scent and is more palatable. For dogs experiencing appetite loss, appetite stimulants like Entyce (capromorelin oral solution) can be prescribed by a veterinarian.
Understanding Prescription Diets
Prescription diets are formulated to address specific health concerns in dogs. For instance, Purina JM and Royal Canin Mobility are designed to aid dogs with arthritis. Purina NeuroCare can be beneficial for dogs suffering from canine cognitive disorder, while Purina Bright Mind is an over-the-counter option aimed at supporting brain function. Consulting with your veterinarian is essential to determine if any of these specialized diets are appropriate for your dog’s individual needs.
The Importance of Supplements for Senior Dogs
Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin can support joint health, alongside options like “avocado and soybean unsaponifiables*” and curcumin. S-adenosyl methionine (SAMe) supports liver function, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can contribute to cognitive health. When selecting supplements, it’s crucial to choose reputable products, as animal supplements are not always subject to strict regulation. Purchasing supplements through your veterinarian or a trusted source helps avoid counterfeit items, which are more prevalent online. Products that display a quality seal from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) have undergone quality control measures, ensuring the label accurately reflects the contents. Other trusted brands, like Nutramax with its Cosequin line, have scientific studies validating their efficacy.
Key Takeaways for Senior Dog Nutrition
Dr. Loftus recommends several key considerations for senior dog nutrition: “Consider getting an individualized diet assessment. Remember that optimal nutrition for aging starts early. Diet recommendations should be customized to the dog.” To schedule a nutrition consultation with Dr. Loftus’s team, consider filling out their online form.
This article was reprinted with permission from the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s DogWatch newsletter, published by Belvoir Media Group. Membership in the Riney Canine Health Center includes a complimentary subscription to DogWatch.
