Geriatric Dog Diet

In recent years, the way we feed our pets as they age has become a topic of great interest in the pet food market. Dog food is no longer just dog food. The days of feeding puppies, adult dogs and geriatric dogs the same way has passed, for now we understand more about the nutritional needs of our pets during their golden years.

  1. What Is a Geriatric Dog?

    • A geriatric dog is one that has simply reached old age. Smaller dogs tend to have longer life spans than large dogs, so what qualifies your dog as geriatric will depend on the size or type of its breed, according to PetEducation.com.

      Very large breeds such as the Irish Wolfhound or Great Dane should be considered to be in this category by age six. Poodles and many other small breeds tend to live to around age 15, so they are considered geriatric at age 10.

    Reduction In Calories

    • Feed your dog a reduced-calorie diet when it reaches an advanced age. You will likely be able to continue feeding your dog the same food it has been eating throughout its adult life---but in smaller portions, according to PetEducation.com.

      Reduce the amount of food you give your dog slightly to maintain its normal weight and decrease it more if the dog is overweight so it can lose the extra pounds. Older dogs tend to have less expendable energy and will gain weight easily as their activity level decreases.

      Extra weight on a geriatric dog can result in health problems, especially in its bones and joints. Special pet foods for older dogs are available that contain fewer calories but promote a feeling of fullness.

    Increased Protein and Fiber

    • Although you may be cutting back on total calories, continue feeding your geriatric dog plenty of protein and fats, according to My-Dog.info.

      Supplement your dog's regular food with a can of high-protein cat food mixed in with its regular kibble. This will add some calories, but will also add a lot of protein to the diet and could make it more appealing to dogs that have begun to lose interest in eating. An old dog that is losing too much weight can be just as unhealthy as an overweight dog.

      Older dogs also tend to get more easily constipated. Add fiber to your dog's diet by adding wheat bran to its regular food to help with this problem.

    Tooth-Friendly Food

    • Make sure your dog is able to consume its food without difficulty. One of the common ailments of older dogs is deterioration of the teeth. The hard kibble they have been eating their entire life may now seem difficult or painful to chew.

      If you suspect your dog is having trouble eating dry food, add some broth or water to the kibble to make it softer and easier to eat. You may also choose to buy a brand with smaller pieces, according to PetEducation.com.