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What’s the Best Food for Older Dogs?
As your dog’s muzzle begins to turn grey, you might find yourself asking… what’s the best dog food for a senior?
On this page we’ll share the Dog Food Advisor’s best senior dog foods for 2024… and we’ll answer the 8 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding older dogs.
Many of the outstanding senior recipes listed below were chosen by our research team because they contain:
- Above-average protein
- Below-average calories
- No high-risk preservatives
While others (like fresh and wet recipes) were selected because they’re soft and easy to chew… which makes each a safe option for dogs with missing teeth or other dental issues.
In addition, none is considered a repeat offender when it comes to deadly aflatoxin in its recent recall history, which makes each an ideal choice for older dogs.
Best Senior Dog Food December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for senior dogs for December 2024.
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1. Best Overall Food for Senior Dogs: The Farmer's Dog Turkey Recipe
Here’s an easy way to feed your senior pet a close-to-homemade meal… that’s perfectly balanced and designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Turkey Recipe is one of four fresh formulas rated in our review of the complete Farmer’s Dog product line.
This formula is human-grade and gets most of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 19% fat and 40% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
Unlike brands that use computer programs to verify their nutrient content…The Farmer’s Dog was tested using a method we consider superior to AAFCO’s own gold standard system… live feeding trials conducted on real dogs of multiple breed sizes and ages over a 6-year period.
Which makes this recipe a top pick for seniors of all breeds. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog range here
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Fresh and as close to home-made as you can get
- Tested at live feeding trials
Main Ingredients Turkey, chickpeas, carrots, broccoli, spinach Texture Wet Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Senior dogs, adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at The Farmer's Dog"Lola has put on a lot of weight in her old age, but since switching to TFD, she’s lost 10 lbs and is playing again! It's nothing short of miraculous."
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2. Best Premium Food for Senior Dogs: Ollie Chicken with Carrots Dog Food
A veterinarian-designed meal that’s optimized for your dog’s age, weight, breed size and activity level. Made with 100% human-grade ingredients. Ollie chicken with carrots is one of four fresh recipes included in our review of the Ollie product line.
This Ollie recipe is human-grade and gets most of its meat protein from fresh chicken. The minimally processed food can help maintain energy, keep coats shiny, and support joint health, making it a good choice for senior dogs who need tailored nutrition for their age.
Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 37% protein, 11% fat and 44% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 30%.
An exceptional fresh canine diet. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Things we like
- Lean protein source
- High levels of omega 3 fatty acids
- Balanced fat content
Main Ingredients Chicken, carrots, peas, rice, chicken liver Type Grain-inclusive, fresh Protein Percentage 37% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs including puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Ollie"My 15 yr old Yorkie loves the chicken flavor and no longer needs an enticement to eat. I am so glad I tried this food."
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3. Best Affordable Food for Senior Dogs: Wellness Core Senior Dog Food
If you’re searching for a low-calorie, balanced diet that’s ideal for an older dog, look no further than Wellness Core Senior. It’s one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.
Wellness Core Senior derives the lion’s share of its meat protein from fresh turkey and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 13% fat and 43% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
Core Senior is a grain-free formula boasting lots of omega-rich salmon oil, glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health… with optimal calories for weight control. A premium recipe for older dogs. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Core Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Low calorie
- Omega rich salmon oil
- Added glucosamine and chondroitin
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, chicken meal, lentils, dried ground potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I transitioned my girl to this senior kibble in hopes of shedding some weight. It's been great. She loves it!"
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4. Best Dry Food for Senior Dogs: Open Farm Senior Turkey & Chicken Recipe
Supporting healthy joints and mobility for aging dogs, Open Farm Senior Chicken and Turkey recipe is one of 10 dry recipes represented in our review of the Open Farm product line.
This formula gets most of its meat protein from turkey and chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 14% fat and 44% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
It is formulated to keep senior dogs healthy, mobile, and active while being gentle on their digestive systems. A high in protein option made with fresh ingredients. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- High in protein and low in fat
- Humanely raised meat sources
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin
Main Ingredients Turkey, chicken, sweet potato, ocean whitefish meal, peas Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 34% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at OpenFarmPet.com"We have a senior dog who has a sensitive belly. His poops have been much better since we transitioned from his prescription dog food to Open Farm Senior. Whether its breakfast or dinner our senior eats it all up and doesn't even need a topping like stew...although we do sneak a little fresh chicken in there from time to time."
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5. Best Wet Food for Senior Dogs: Blue Buffalo Homestyle Senior Wet Recipe
Homestyle Senior Chicken Dinner is one of 10 wet recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo wet dog food product line.
This wet formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 20% fat and 37% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
It’s worth noting this senior design includes both glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility. And the recipe is 100% free of corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
A top wet option for older dogs, especially those with dental problems or chewing issues. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Dog Food (Wet) range here
Things we like
- Includes glucosamine and chondroitin
- Free from corn, wheat and soy
- No artificial flavors
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 34% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My senior pup (10 years old; small 10lb terrier mix; missing teeth) LOVES this food! She gets so excited when it's breakfast or dinner time, and she hops up and down knowing she gets to eat this food. It's a nice pate blend of chicken, peas and carrots, and it doesn't smell! Sometimes wet food can smell horrible, but this seemingly has no odor at all. I highly recommend."
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6. Best Senior Dog Food for Weight Loss: Diamond Naturals Senior Dog
Boasting an optimal balance of protein, fat and micro-nutrients, Diamond Senior makes an exceptional, low-cost option for older dogs. It’s one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
This Diamond Senior formula sources the major portion of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 12% fat and 52% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
With glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints as well as L-carnitine for weight control, this makes an affordable option from a safety-conscious company.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Includes L-carnitine for weight control
- Affordable
- Added glucosamine and chondroitin
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My almost 13 year old Aussie was really slowing down, not really interested in playing anymore, etc.. I've been mixing her old food with the Diamond Naturals for a couple of weeks to slowly change over and can tell a difference already! Now she wants to play in the mornings and afternoons when I get home - not for long, but c'mon, she's 13! I will be ordering this for her from now on."
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7. Best Dog Food for Small Breed Seniors: The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Fish Recipe
The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Fish recipe is one of eight formulas in our review of the dehydrated product line.
This particular food derives the bulk of its protein from dehydrated white fish, which provides essential amino acids that support muscle maintenance and overall health; crucial for aging dogs. Dry matter label analysis reveals it has a protein content of 36.4%, fat of 15% and an estimated carbohydrate level of 41%. The fat to protein ratio is 41%.
The recipe is formulated to be gentle on the digestive system, making it ideal for senior small breed dogs who often have sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. As a dehydrated food, it can be rehydrated with water, which helps increase your dog’s fluid intake—important for overall health, especially in senior dogs.
Things we like
- Organic ingredients
- Easily digestible
- Probiotics
Main Ingredients Dehydrated white fish, dried organic coconut, dried chickpeas, dehydrated pumpkin, dehydrated celery Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36.4% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs including puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews"My boy has pancreatitis and needs a healthy food with less than 10% fat. He loves this food!"
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8. Best Dog Food for Large Breed Seniors: Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support received the Dog Food Advisor’s rating of 4.5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this range made by Just Food For Dogs, a company founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Shawn Buckley.
JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Joint & Skin Support derives the bulk of its protein from pork, which is naturally rich in all 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 33% protein, 5% fat and 55% carbohydrates. . . with a fat to protein ratio of 15%.
This formula is especially beneficial for dogs that need extra support for their joints and skin, making it a great choice for senior dogs or those with specific health concerns.
The Pantry Fresh range is vet-recommended, fresh, human-grade food. They can be stored safely for up to two years (refrigeration is only required once opened).
Read our review of the full JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food range here
Things we like
- Vet-recommended
- Human-grade
- Formulated for senior dogs
Main Ingredients Pork, quinoa, kale, carrots, apples Texture Wet Type Fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
"First time in years my 11yr old JRT hasn’t had to deal with runny eyes and itchy skin!!! I can’t recommend this enough!!! "
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9. Best Senior Dog Food for a Picky Eater: Chicken Soup for the Soul Senior Wet Dog Food
Classic Mature Paté is one of 10 wet recipes covered in our review of the Chicken Soup for the Soul wet product line.
This finely-chopped senior formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 18% fat and 40% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
We like the fact this classic wet design contains no corn, wheat or soy and that it’s 100% free of artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. And the super-fine texture makes it ideal for dogs with missing teeth or dental problems.
A top wet food ideal for picky seniors. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Chicken Soup for the Soul Classic Dog Food (Canned) range here
Things we like
- No corn, wheat or soy
- Free from artificial flavors or preservatives
- Super-fine pate texture
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, turkey broth, turkey, chicken liver Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 34% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My little senior girl really loves this brand. I love that it is pate because she doesn't have teeth and I always worry about choking."
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10. Best Food for Senior Dogs with a Sensitive Stomach: Canidae Grain-Free Pure Senior Formula
It’s not uncommon for an older dog to suffer from a sensitive stomach, so, for some, a limited ingredient diet like Canidae Grain-Free Pure, can offer a great solution. It’s one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure product line.
Canidae Pure Senior acquires the dominant share of its animal protein from fresh chicken as well as poultry meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 11% fat and 50% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 36%.
Although suitable for all seniors, Canidae Grain-Free Pure was specially formulated for dogs with food sensitivities. Because of it’s a limited ingredient design, this particular diet is free of many common canine allergens… like corn, wheat, soy or grains. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Canidae Pure Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Things we like
- Limited ingredient diet
- Free from corn, wheat or soy
- High in protein
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"It is very difficult to find a healthy senior dog food with high protein, lower fat, a good amount of omega 3/6, chrondroitin, glucosamine, calcium, and other vitamins. This is it! I fed my dog Precise Naturals and when the company owner passed away, so did the product. I had to find another good for my 12 y/o large mix breed. I’ve found it. She loves it; she’s a healthy weight, shiny soft coat, and energetic. If your hesitant, I was too, but so glad this was what I went chose for her."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to switch to a senior food without making your dog sick
In this video…
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help lower your dog’s risk of getting sick when you switch your senior to a new food.
When is a dog considered a senior?
Not all dogs get grey hair around their muzzles. In fact, many are as playful as a puppy for their entire lives.
In fact…
You may have noticed that small dogs seem to age more slowly than large dogs. It’s true. A small dog can live to be as old as 20 years. But a large dog can reach maturity much sooner.
So, how do you know when your dog has entered her golden years?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association…1
“…small dogs are generally considered senior at 7 years of age. Larger breed dogs tend to have shorter life spans… and are often considered senior when they are 5 to 6 years of age.”
Of course, all dogs are different. A healthy diet, regular exercise and good dental care can help extend your dog’s middle age phase.
How old is my dog in human years?
Larger dogs age at a faster rate than smaller dogs. So, use the American Kennel Club chart below to discover your dog’s age in human years.
Do older dogs need more protein... or less?
Despite what you may have heard…
An older dog needs more protein in her diet than a younger dog. That’s because (like humans), seniors need to replace wasting muscle mass as they age.
What’s more…
A dog food rich in meat-based protein will not strain a healthy, older dog’s kidneys. However, if your dog has already been diagnosed with kidney disease, be sure to ask your vet about prescribing an appropriate diet.
Although adult dog foods can legally contain as little as 18%, all our recommended senior brands above contain at least 27% protein.
Should all older dogs eat senior food?
No. In most cases, that’s not necessary. In fact, if your older dog is healthy and eating a quality, balanced diet, there’s no reason to switch to a senior dog food.
Just be sure the food you’re currently feeding contains an above-average amount of meat-based protein and moderate calories.
What's the #1 cause of food-related illness in seniors?
Although it contributes to health issues in dogs of all ages…
Obesity is the #1 cause of chronic disease and premature death in seniors.
Extra weight means your dog’s joints have to work harder… and they may already be inflamed from arthritis, hip dysplasia or a luxated knee cap.
Unfortunately, dogs are naturally more prone to obesity as they age. According to the National Research Council of the National Academy of Science…2
“Because of decreased physical activity and slowed metabolism, older dogs need 20% fewer total calories than do middle-aged adult dogs.”
So, a low calorie food can help your dog lose or maintain her weight without feeling hungry all the time.
How much food should I feed my senior dog?
Since every animal is unique…
It’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “perfect” for each dog… and each brand.
So, start with the package’s feeding instructions… or the amount suggested by our dog food calculator. If you use the calculator, be sure to use the “senior” setting to estimate an appropriate serving size for your older dog.
Either method will work because you’re using it only as a starting point.
Then, over time…
Adjust that serving size up or down to reach and maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
How do I determine my dog's ideal weight?
Keeping your senior at ideal weight can help you significantly extend your pet’s life.
A 14-year landmark study found that…
Dogs fed to ideal body condition lived 1.8 years longer than their overweight litter mates.
That’s nearly 2 extra years of life…
Just for keeping your dog close to her ideal weight based on her Body Condition Score. This process is explained in the following short video.
Remember, every dog is different. If you’re feeding the recommended amount, but your dog is not losing weight (or if she’s always hungry), you may need to make some adjustments.
Talk to your vet if you’re unsure of your dog’s ideal weight and body condition.
What can I do to satisfy my picky eater?
One way to enhance your dog’s appetite is to add tasty “toppers” to her food. Mixing a few tablespoons of a quality canned food to your dog’s kibble can help.
Fresh, raw or cooked chicken or beef can also get your dog to drool over their meals again. Eggs are another popular appetizer… scrambled or boiled with no salt, oil or seasonings, of course.
Toppers can safely make up about 10-20% of your dog’s diet. You’ll need to be mindful of added calories and nutrients.
Final word
The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
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