Your dog’s health will depend a lot on their breed, levels of exercise, and nutrition. As your pup ages, appropriate levels of physical activity and food will change, so your veterinarian will recommend adjustments to diet and exercise routines. You can also follow these common do’s and don’ts of feeding your senior dog to keep your pooch happy and healthy well into old age.

Do:

Get veterinarian advice.

There are many brands of food labeled “for senior dogs,” but it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian about your pet’s specific needs. Breed, health history, exercise levels, and home environment will all play a role in your pet’s aging process. Your vet will have recommendations for food, treats, and frequency of feeding.

Add extra nutrients.

Older dogs need more protein and fiber to combat muscle loss and constipation. Adding small amounts of fruits and veggies to their bowl can increase fiber—especially pumpkin, beets, and green beans. Nutrition supplements such as prebiotics aid digestion. Glucosamine supplements help fight arthritis and stiffness. Consult your veterinarian before adding supplements or fiber, as there is no one-size-fits-all nutrition plan.

Don’t:

Let your dog self-regulate or give them people food.

Although your dog’s appetite may decrease with age, don’t assume they can self-regulate at the food dish. Many dogs will continue to eat heartily even as exercise decreases. Make regular feeding times with measured food according to your vet’s recommendations. Older dogs may need more frequent, smaller meals to maintain adequate nutrition. Find what works and stick with it. Other than small amounts of fruits or veggies as recommended by your vet, don’t give your dog table scraps. The fats, carbs, and any artificial ingredients aren’t healthy and can offset the nutritious food in their bowl.

Forget the water.

Older dogs may become dehydrated more quickly than younger pets. Keep water dishes full of fresh, clean water, and pay attention to how much your pet is drinking throughout the day. Check with your veterinarian about medications your dog is on and if they cause dehydration. 

Your dog can age gracefully when you pay attention to their changing nutrition and exercise needs. Robertsdale Animal Clinic, in Baldwin County, AL, is an affordable, friendly full-service animal hospital. Their veterinarians offer pet surgery, dentistry, micro-chipping, pet wellness exams, and vaccinations. Call (251) 947-7297 to make an appointment or go to their website to find out more about their services.