What health problems can affect a senior dog’s diet?
If your dog has medical problems in its later years, you may need help from a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to plan a proper diet. “Older pets with specific conditions, like diabetes, kidney failure, or liver disease may require special veterinary diets to assist in the treatment of their conditions,” Metzger says. Dogs with heart disease may need lower-calorie “senior” dog foods to help keep weight down as well as lower-sodium formulations. “The goal of a diabetic diet,” Nunez says, “is to delay absorption of a food.” This is important for dogs with diabetes. When foods are absorbed slowly, blood sugar tends to rise more slowly. Lower-fat, higher-fiber foods are best for diabetic dogs, Nunez says. Owners should consult with their veterinarian about which type of food to buy. Some senior dogs also have trouble with constipation, so a higher-fiber diet will help them stay regular. Many senior diets have higher-quality protein sources than standard foods. This helps to maintain
