Feeding senior dogs
By Ness Bird – Nutrition Adviser and RVN ©
As dogs age, gradual changes become evident. These include greying of the
hair, joint stiffness, and slower reflexes. The senses become less sharp; and
hearing, vision and sense of smell may diminish. The first signs of aging are
usually a general ‘slowing down’ with decreased levels of activity and stamina
and a tendency to sleep more.
Digestive health and renal function
For many years it was believed that a low protein diet was beneficial for the
older dog. However, a moderate level of good quality dietary protein does
not cause renal failure; nor does it contribute to its progression providing it is
easily digested and metabolised (and blood waste levels are not high). Protein
should be biologically appropriate (e.g. white meat, fish and egg), and of a high
biological value easily utilised for structural and metabolic functions within
the body.
Impaired renal function can commonly affect the older dog, and if kidney
problems are diagnosed, a low phosphorous diet is indicated. This helps to
reduce renal mineralisation and renal secondary hyperparathyroidism; slowing
the progression of the disease. Arden Grange do not produce veterinary diets, so
please consult your vet for guidance if your dog suffers from renal dysfunction.
Early symptoms of renal dysfunction may include increased thirst and urination.
In more advanced cases, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, bad
breath and/or mouth ulcers may also be evident. The body is very good at
compensating, so renal impairment can often go unnoticed. A non-invasive and
cost-effective way to check the kidney function is to ask your vet to test a urine
sample. The specific gravity indicates the concentration of the urine, and if the
kidneys are not working properly, it will be lower than normal. Early diagnosis
and treatment can mean a much better prognosis for your dog, so it is very
important to monitor water intake and urine output.
Optimum weight maintenance
An older dog is likely to lead a more sedentary lifestyle, and therefore may
require a lower calorie intake to avoid weight gain. Obesity is a risk factor for
numerous clinical conditions in dogs; including diabetes mellitus, joint disease,
cardiac and respiratory problems. Look for a lower fat diet, or reduce your dog’s
food intake, when energy levels start to decrease. A diet containing the amino
acid L-carnitine may also be beneficial as this increases the conversion of fat to
energy thus helping to maintain lean body mass.
Joint care
Many commercial diets formulated for the senior dog will contain glucosamine
and chondroitin in order to help to protect the joints and prevent the
deterioration that naturally occurs with age from worsening. Glucosamine
provides the building blocks to synthesise new joint cartilage, whilst chondroitin
helps to block destructive enzymes that break down cartilage. Both are safe and
natural ingredients, and any excess that is not required by the body is simply
excreted in the urine. Some senior diets are also supplemented with MSM which
has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
A diet containing added essential fatty acids may be beneficial, because the
omega-3s release compounds within the body
that reduce inflammation. Krill is
an excellent source of omega-3 DHA and EPA.
Dogs with pre-existing joint disease may require higher levels of the various
supplements than the diet can provide. In most cases, a proprietary supplement
such as Lintbell’s YuMOVE can be safely used alongside the diet and any
conventional medicine, but always seek advice from your vet.
Diets fortified with natural antioxidants such as cranberry and yucca may also
benefit older dogs. Studies have shown that they can partially reverse the
deleterious effects of aging on cognition (Milgram et al, 2002). Antioxidants also
help protect against free radical damage from which older dogs are more
at risk.
Choosing a healthy food for your older dog
Arden Grange Senior with fresh chicken & rice has been specially formulated to
provide the optimal balance of nutrients and energy for older dogs. It contains
boosted levels of glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM for extra protection
against age-related health problems; and like all of the Arden Grange recipes,
includes additional nutraceuticals (natural ingredients chosen for their health
benefits) such as prebiotics to support the digestion and immune system.
When to change to a senior diet
Dogs age at different rates so there is no exact age at which we suggest you
make the change to a senior diet. Some dogs are still quite active at
10-12 years (especially small breeds) whilst others begin to slow down by
6-8 years. When you notice your dog is expending less energy and perhaps
getting a little heavier is usually a good time to introduce senior food.