As dogs age, they experience visible changes. Senior dogs may go grey, move more slowly, or take more naps. On the inside, their health needs are changing as well. Without proper care, these changes may make them more vulnerable to illness and disease. Proper nutrition formulated for your senior dog’s life stage provides the support they need to enjoy comfort and health for as long as possible.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- what qualifies a dog food as one of the healthiest dog foods for senior dogs in 2025
- outline important nutrients that support healthy aging
- discuss wholesome ingredients that improve digestibility
- provide tips on how to choose the best dog food for your senior dog.
What to look for in a senior dog food
What makes a dog food the best dry dog food for senior dogs? Or the best wet dog food for senior dogs? It’s all in the ingredients. The healthiest dog foods for senior dogs are formulated to be complete and balanced according to standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This ensures your aging dog’s nutrition is delivered in precise amounts, with not too much or too little of any nutrient. Nutrient excess or deficiency can be especially harmful in senior dogs because of their reduced metabolism.
After ensuring the diet meets AAFCO standards for adult dogs or all life stages, the best dog foods for senior dogs should feature:
- High-quality, easily digestible protein — Animal-based proteins such as chicken, turkey, and beef should top the ingredient list. Whole-food proteins are easy for senior dogs to digest, allowing them to absorb essential amino acids that support virtually every internal process and maintain muscle health. If your senior dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease, avoid high-protein diets and opt for moderate levels instead.
- Controlled calories and balanced fat content — Older dogs may be less active or have a reduced metabolism, causing them to gain weight easily. Senior dog diets with moderate to low calorie and fat content ensure adequate nutrition while making it easy to maintain a healthy weight. One of the best dog foods for overweight senior dogs is our Healthy Weight recipe, featuring lean pork and satisfying butternut squash.
- Added fiber for digestive health — Senior dogs may have reduced gut motility or struggle to absorb nutrients from their food. Fiber aids with regular stools, prevents constipation and diarrhea, and feeds healthy gut bacteria for better intestinal health.
- Joint and mobility support nutrients — Arthritis can limit an older dog’s mobility and quality of life. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy cartilage, while senior dog food containing omega-3 fatty acids can ease arthritis pain. You can add glucosamine and chondroitin to any meal with Hip + Joint Care supplements.
- Antioxidants and immune support — Even healthy pets can experience an age-related decline in immunity and cognitive function. Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress in the body and promote normal immune function and brain health.
8 top healthy senior dog food ingredients
Like us, senior dogs benefit from fresh, whole food ingredients. These ingredients are gentle on the digestive tract, making it easy for them to absorb necessary nutrients that support overall health. Our favorite senior dog food ingredients combine high nutritional value, palatability, moisture, and added support, such as immune-boosting antioxidants.
Whether you need to feed an elderly large dog or a small breed senior, the following vet-approved ingredients are some of our favorite foods for senior dogs. We’ve also included where you’ll find them among our vet-developed and vet recommended dog food options.
- Chicken — Chicken is a popular high-quality protein that is generally easy on the digestive tract. Skinless white meat chicken, such as chicken breast, provides high-quality lean protein that’s perfect for sensitive stomachs and dogs prone to pancreatitis, while darker thigh meat—featured in our Chicken and Rice recipe—delivers more flavor and higher vitamin and mineral content than other cuts of chicken.
- Fish — Fish, such as salmon or whitefish, is a novel protein for many dogs, making it ideal for those with food allergies or sensitivities. Fish is easily digestible and contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are natural anti-inflammatories that support brain, heart, skin, and coat health. Whitefish such as cod and haddock are also low-calorie and low-fat, making our Fish and Sweet Potato recipe a great diet option for small-breed senior dogs and those with a history of pancreatitis.
- Brown rice — Brown rice provides healthy fiber that’s easy to digest and contains important B vitamins and minerals for nerve and muscle function. As a fiber source, brown rice helps regulate digestion to help dogs feel full and satisfied while supplying steady energy for daily activities. Brown rice is a great complement to high-quality protein, as found in our Lamb and Brown Rice recipe and shelf-stable JustFresh Home-Cooked Chicken and Home-Cooked Beef recipes.
- Sweet potatoes — Sweet potatoes provide gut-healthy dietary fiber, plus vitamins and minerals, including beta carotene, which is converted to vitamin A. Vitamin A is especially helpful for seniors because it supports vision and serves as an antioxidant for immune system health. Plus, sweet potatoes lend appetite-pleasing flavor and texture to recipes like our Beef and Russet Potato.
- Carrots — Like sweet potatoes, carrots add a boost of vitamins and minerals to senior dog foods, including beta carotene. In addition to supporting your dog’s vision, nutrients in carrots can support immune function and blood clotting. Senior dogs also love carrots for their sweet flavor and soft texture. We love them as an added source of moisture to support kidney health. You’ll find this fiber-rich veggie in many JustFoodForDogs recipes, like our Turkey and Whole Wheat Macaroni recipe.
- Blueberries — Blueberries are nature’s antioxidant powerhouse. These small fruits pack a punch of free-radical-fighting nutrients that help repair harmful oxidative stress. In simpler terms, they may help slow aging! The protective qualities of antioxidants may help protect aging dogs against cognitive dysfunction (doggy dementia). We’ve included blueberries in our Fresh Meals Lamb and Brown Rice recipe.
- Flaxseed — As dogs age, their skin becomes thinner and less elastic. This makes them prone to dry skin, hair loss, and other issues. Flaxseed oil contains essential fatty acids that nourish the skin barrier and support a healthy coat. You’ll find flaxseed in our JustFresh Home-Cooked Pork recipe.
- Pumpkin — Senior dogs can experience reduced gastrointestinal motility, leading to constipation or loose stools. Pumpkin is an excellent fiber source that regulates digestion and may help control blood sugar by slowing the absorption of food. It also contains valuable antioxidants to support the immune system, and pups love the taste. Our PantryFresh Healthy Digestion Bundle makes adding pumpkin to your dog’s diet a treat—literally!
Give your aging dog the nutrition they deserve
Feeding your senior dog is about more than satisfying their appetite. It should be an act of love and health. Recognizing your older dog’s evolving needs and supporting them through veterinarian-approved nutrition helps make every day you spend together the best one yet.
JustFoodForDogs makes feeding your senior dog’s changing health easy. While we can’t turn back the hands of time, our balanced, human-grade, and vet-formulated diets can deliver targeted nutrition for joint, heart, and digestive health. Plus, it’s the closest thing to having your senior dog’s diet homemade—with love and care from our kitchen, to yours.
Need something special? Let our veterinary nutritionist team create a recipe for your special senior dog. Schedule a consult and start your JustFoodForDogs Custom Dog Food journey today.
FAQs about senior dog food
This is a matter of preference and convenience. Wet food provides added moisture for increased hydration (which is important for senior dogs with kidney disease). It is often more appealing because of its aroma and soft texture. However, some pet parents prefer kibble for its convenience and cost savings.
According to veterinarians, dogs reach senior status at different times depending on their size.
Small dogs: 8–10 years
Medium dogs: 7–9 years
Large breed dogs: 5–7 years
As many senior dogs can thrive on an “all life stages” diet, ask your veterinarian if switching to a senior dog food is the best choice for your older dog.
Yes. Treats and snacks can add calories with little to no nutritional value. Since senior dogs may be less active or have a slower metabolism, this can cause weight gain. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your senior dog’s daily calories.
With fresh, human-grade ingredients and gentle cooking techniques that lock in nutrition, moisture, and flavor, fresh is one of the healthiest dog foods for senior dogs. Each JFFD recipe is vet-formulated to ensure precise nutrition that supports overall health. Our Targeted Nutrition options and Custom Diets may help address age-related challenges, making JustFoodForDogs recipes excellent foods for senior dogs.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.
Sources
“Choosing Food for Your Senior Dog.” 2021. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. July 8, 2021. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/choosing-food-your-senior-dog.
