Science and Senior Dog Diets
Deterioration of Skin and Coat Quality
More Frequent Intestinal Problems
How do I know when my dog needs a senior diet?
As your dog ages, changes occur in the way his body functions. Common concerns include decreased immune system function, deterioration of skin and coat quality, and more frequent intestinal problems. So it makes sense that a senior dog’s diet might also need to change.
How do I know when my dog needs a senior diet?
Different dogs show signs of ageing at different times, and much of this variation is associated with size. Larger dogs generally appear mature sooner than smaller dogs. The table below can show you when your dog should start a senior diet.
Dog Weight and Transition to Senior Nutrition
Weight Range Age to Begin Transition
More than 40 kg 5 years
25 to 40 kg 6 years
10 to 25 kg 7 years
Up to 10 kg 7 years
Immune System
Throughout a dog’s life, a process called peroxidation occurs. Peroxidation is a normal process the body uses to destroy cells that outlive their usefulness and to kill germs and parasites. But this process can also destroy or damage healthy cells. As a dog ages, the damage caused by peroxidation accumulates and, in turn, increases the risk of certain problems such as infections.
Antioxidants are naturally occurring nutrients that help maintain overall health by neutralising the peroxidation process of cellular molecules. They occur normally in the body, but can also be acquired through diet.
Deterioration of Skin and Coat Quality
Eating a complete and balanced diet with essential fatty acids, like those found in vitamin-rich fish oils, also helps rejuvenate dry skin and develop a healthy, lustrous coat.
More Frequent Intestinal Problems
Ageing dogs may have higher numbers of unfavourable bacteria and lower numbers of beneficial bacteria in their intestines, which can result in clinical signs of gastrointestinal problems (such as diarrhoea).
A diet with a moderately fermentable fibre source such as beet pulp can help maintain intestinal health. Beet pulp provides energy for the cells lining the intestine and promotes good stool formation.
