What are the characteristics of a good senior diet for dogs?
Your older dog will need a well-balanced diet that is generally lower in calories, and fat yet higher in fiber. It should contain high quality protein. You may be able to continue feeding your dog her regular food, but in a smaller quantity. Or, you may need a specially formulated senior diet. Commercially prepared senior diets have a protein of around 18%, whereas, diets for dogs in renal failure are around 14% protein. If your dog has significantly decreased kidney function, then a diet lower in protein will lower the workload for the kidneys. Lower fat usually translates to lower calories so many senior diets have a fat level of around 10 to 12%. Older dogs are more prone to develop constipation, so senior diets are higher in fiber (around 3 to 5%). You can also add wheat bran to regular dog food to increase fiber intake. Finally, feeding your dog dry food (if she will eat it) will help to control tartar build-up and reduce gum disease.
