Somewhere around age seven, things start to shift. Your dog sleeps a little longer. Gets up a little slower. Maybe puts on a pound or two despite eating the same amount. The walk that used to be a sprint becomes a stroll.
This is normal. But it also means the food that worked perfectly for the last five or six years might not be the right formula anymore. Senior dogs face a unique set of nutritional challenges: slowing metabolism, declining kidney function, joint stiffness, potential heart issues, and sometimes a waning appetite.
The good news is that the right food can make a measurable difference in how your older dog feels and moves. Here is what actually changes, what to look for, and which foods we recommend.
What Changes Nutritionally After Age 7
The “senior” label is a general guideline. Small breeds may not show age-related changes until 10 or 11. Giant breeds might start slowing down at 5. But somewhere in that range, several metabolic shifts happen that affect what your dog should eat.
Metabolism Slows Down
Most senior dogs are less active than they were in their prime. Their basal metabolic rate decreases, which means they need fewer calories to maintain their weight. Continuing to feed the same amount of adult food almost always leads to weight gain, and excess weight compounds every other age-related issue – joint stress, heart strain, diabetes risk.
A good senior formula reduces calorie density while maintaining nutrient density. Your dog gets fewer calories but the same (or higher) levels of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
Muscle Mass Decreases
Sarcopenia – age-related muscle loss – affects dogs just like it affects humans. Counter-intuitively, this means senior dogs may actually need more protein than adult dogs, not less. The old recommendation to reduce protein in senior dogs to “protect the kidneys” has been largely debunked for healthy seniors. Current research suggests that moderate to high-quality protein helps maintain lean muscle mass.
The exception: dogs with diagnosed chronic kidney disease (CKD) may need protein restriction, but this should be determined by your veterinarian based on blood work, not assumed based on age alone.
Joint Health Declines
Cartilage wears down over time, especially in large breeds and dogs with a history of joint injuries. Many senior formulas include glucosamine and chondroitin as part of the recipe. While the evidence for these supplements is mixed, they are generally considered safe and may provide some benefit for joint comfort.
More importantly, omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that may support joint health. Look for foods that include fish oil or algal oil as a source.
Digestive Efficiency Drops
Older dogs may become less efficient at absorbing nutrients. This means the quality of ingredients matters more than ever. Easily digestible protein sources, prebiotic fibers, and added probiotics can help senior dogs extract more nutrition from their food.
Cognitive Function May Decline
Canine cognitive dysfunction (similar to dementia in humans) affects a significant percentage of dogs over 11. Diets enriched with antioxidants, medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), and omega-3 fatty acids may support brain health, though the evidence varies in strength.
Our Top Senior Dog Food Picks
Prices last updated February 2026.
Best Overall: Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+
Purina’s Bright Mind formula was developed specifically around research into cognitive health in aging dogs. It contains enhanced botanical oils that provide medium-chain triglycerides as an alternative energy source for aging brains.
Key ingredients: Chicken, rice, whole grain wheat, poultry by-product meal, corn gluten meal
Guaranteed analysis: 28% protein, 14% fat
Why we recommend it:
- Developed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists
- Backed by cognitive health research
- Contains omega-3 from fish oil for joint and brain support
- Appropriate calorie density for moderately active seniors
- Available in multiple protein and size-specific options
- AAFCO feeding trial tested
Best for Joint Support: Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality
Hill’s has invested heavily in researching the aging process in dogs. Their Senior Vitality formula includes a blend of ingredients specifically chosen to address cellular-level signs of aging.
Key ingredients: Chicken, cracked pearled barley, whole grain wheat, brown rice, chicken meal
Guaranteed analysis: 21.5% protein, 12.5% fat
Why we recommend it:
- Contains L-carnitine to support lean muscle maintenance
- Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for coat and joint health
- Includes antioxidant blend of vitamins C and E
- Clinically tested in senior dogs showing improved energy and alertness
- Moderate calorie density for less active seniors
Best for Weight Management: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior
Many senior dogs struggle with weight gain. Blue Buffalo’s senior formula provides a calorie-controlled option with L-carnitine to support fat metabolism.
Key ingredients: Deboned chicken, brown rice, barley, oatmeal, pea starch
Guaranteed analysis: 20% protein, 10% fat
Why we recommend it:
- Lower fat content for weight management
- Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joints
- LifeSource Bits include antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
- Includes L-carnitine for lean muscle and healthy body weight
Best Budget: Diamond Naturals Senior
Diamond Naturals offers a well-balanced senior formula at a price point that works for any household. It includes joint support and omega fatty acids without the premium price tag.
Key ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice
Guaranteed analysis: 25% protein, 11% fat
Why we recommend it:
- Chicken as the first ingredient
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin
- Added probiotics for digestive health
- Omega fatty acids from salmon oil
- Significantly more affordable than premium senior formulas
Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Senior 7+ Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Some senior dogs develop digestive sensitivities they did not have in their younger years. This formula addresses that with easily digestible ingredients and added probiotics.
Key ingredients: Salmon, rice, oat meal, canola meal, barley
Guaranteed analysis: 26% protein, 12% fat
Why we recommend it:
- Salmon as the primary protein (easier on sensitive stomachs and provides omega-3)
- Contains prebiotic fiber for digestive health
- No corn, wheat, or soy
- Live probiotics for gut health
- Suitable for dogs with chicken sensitivities
How to Know When It Is Time to Switch
There is no hard rule that says you must switch to senior food at exactly age seven. Some dogs do perfectly well on adult maintenance food into their senior years. But consider making the change if you notice any of the following:
- Weight gain despite eating the same amount
- Decreased activity or reluctance to exercise
- Stiffness when getting up, especially in the morning or after rest
- Coat changes – duller, dryer, or thinner fur
- Digestive changes – more gas, softer stools, or decreased appetite
- Your vet recommends it based on blood work or physical exam findings
The switch from adult to senior food should follow the same gradual transition process as any food change: 7-10 days of gradually increasing the new food while decreasing the old.
Special Considerations for Senior Dogs
Heart Health
Heart disease becomes more common in senior dogs, particularly in certain breeds. If your dog has been diagnosed with heart disease or is at elevated risk, your vet may recommend a diet that is lower in sodium and includes added taurine and L-carnitine. Our low sodium dog food guide covers the best options for cardiac patients.
Kidney Health
Kidney function naturally declines with age. For dogs with early kidney disease (often caught on routine senior blood panels), your vet may recommend a diet with moderate protein, reduced phosphorus, and increased omega-3 fatty acids. Prescription kidney diets from Hill’s, Royal Canin, or Purina are formulated specifically for this purpose.
Do not restrict protein preemptively “just in case.” Healthy senior dogs need adequate protein to maintain muscle mass. Protein restriction should only happen under veterinary guidance based on actual blood work showing kidney compromise.
Dental Issues
Many senior dogs have dental disease that makes chewing hard kibble painful. If your dog has significant dental issues:
- Consider smaller kibble sizes
- Add warm water to soften kibble
- Mix in wet food for easier eating
- Discuss dental care with your vet – extraction of painful teeth can dramatically improve appetite and quality of life
Appetite Changes
Some senior dogs become pickier as they age, which can lead to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Strategies to maintain appetite:
- Warm the food slightly (enhances aroma)
- Add low-sodium bone broth or warm water
- Try different protein sources
- Offer smaller, more frequent meals
- Rule out dental pain, nausea, or other medical causes with your vet
Supplements Worth Considering for Senior Dogs
Even on a quality senior food, your vet may recommend additional supplementation:
- Fish oil (omega-3): The evidence for anti-inflammatory and cognitive benefits is relatively strong. Choose a fish oil supplement formulated for dogs with appropriate EPA/DHA ratios.
- Probiotics: May support digestive health, especially for seniors with irregular stools.
- SAMe (S-Adenosylmethionine): May support liver function and cognitive health in senior dogs.
Always discuss supplements with your vet before adding them, especially if your dog is on medications. Certain supplements can interact with common senior medications.
The Bigger Picture
Food is one part of senior dog care, but it works best alongside other age-appropriate adjustments: modified exercise, regular veterinary check-ups (at least twice a year for seniors), dental care, and environmental accommodations like orthopedic beds and ramps.
For a comprehensive approach to caring for your aging dog, check out our senior dog care guide, which covers everything from mobility support to cognitive enrichment.
Your senior dog gave you their best years. The right food helps make sure their later years are comfortable, active, and as long as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I switch to senior dog food?
The general guideline is around age 7 for most breeds, but small breeds may not need the switch until 9-10, while giant breeds might benefit from switching as early as 5-6. Your dog’s individual condition matters more than a number. Talk to your vet about the right timing based on your dog’s breed, weight, activity level, and health status.
Do senior dogs need less protein?
Not necessarily. The outdated belief that senior dogs should eat low-protein diets has been largely disproven for healthy seniors. Adequate protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass in aging dogs. However, dogs with diagnosed kidney disease may need controlled protein levels as directed by their vet. Do not restrict protein without medical guidance.
Is wet food better than dry food for senior dogs?
Wet food can benefit seniors who have dental issues (making hard kibble painful), decreased thirst (wet food provides more moisture), or reduced appetite (wet food is typically more palatable). Many owners find a combination of wet and dry works well. The most important thing is that the food is nutritionally complete for senior dogs, regardless of format.
How often should I feed my senior dog?
Most senior dogs do well on two meals per day, the same as adult dogs. However, if your senior dog has a decreased appetite, offering three smaller meals may help ensure they consume enough nutrition. Dogs with conditions like diabetes or hypoglycemia may need modified feeding schedules as directed by their vet.
Should I give my senior dog joint supplements if their food already contains glucosamine?
The levels of glucosamine and chondroitin in dog food are often lower than what studies suggest may provide therapeutic benefit. If your senior dog shows signs of joint stiffness, your vet may recommend a standalone joint supplement at therapeutic doses in addition to a senior formula. Discuss this with your vet to determine the right approach for your dog.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Senior dogs should have veterinary check-ups at least twice a year, including blood work to monitor organ function. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes for an older dog.