Brain Diet Food for Canines

Like humans, aging dogs sometimes suffer from a decline in brain function. A study done in 2005 by Dr. Carl Cotman linked a diet rich in antioxidants to improved cognitive abilities in dogs. This researched has helped pet owners and veterinarians adjust the diets of elderly dogs to improve their lifestyle.

  1. Antioxidants

    • In 2005, Dr. Carl Cotman, director of the Institute for Brain Aging and Dementia at the University of California Irvine, conducted a study on dogs suffering from cognitive dysfunction (CD). These dogs were given foods high in antioxidants and were able to learn new tricks. Adjusting a dog's diet to include foods rich in antioxidants may improve or even reverse symptoms of CD. Antioxidants give fruits and vegetables their rich colors. Good sources of antioxidants include blueberries, cranberries, apples, and potatoes. Mixing these foods in with your dog's daily diet will help increase the amounts of antioxidants they eat.

      Before beginning a new diet for your pet, it is best to consult with a veterinarian, who can help rule out food allergies that could cause other health problems. Your veterinarian can also help you strategize the best way to introduce new foods to your dog.

    Prescription Diet

    • Hills Petfood has designed a prescription diet called Hills b/d. Hills b/d has been designed to improve the health of elderly dogs with CD. Hills b/d works by limiting the affects of free radicals found in the environment. The food is also rich in antioxidants. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if Hills b/d is the right choice for your elderly dog.

    Homemade Diet

    • Feeding your dog a well balanced, homemade diet may be a good way to improve your dog's health. Elderly dogs benefit from eating lean cuts of meat and fiber rich food. There are two main options for feeding your dog a homemade, healthy diet. An entirely homemade diet consists of premium proteins paired with well balanced carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. A supplemental homemade diet consists of mixing homemade foods with commercial foods. Add antioxidant rich foods to ensure your pet achieves optimum brain health.