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You have heard all of the buildup about the new dog diets for older pets. Is there really a differentiation between dog food for fully developed dogs and kibble recommended expressly for seniors? How do you identify when to change your pet to a special diet?

The greatest resource for information about dog food is your pet's veterinarian. Only you and your vet understand the exact needs of your pet the best. Discuss with your vet your concerns and questions. He or she will be able to advise you on what adjustments, if any, need to be made to your dog's diet.

If your senior dog does not have any health problems and maintains a healthy weight, there is no need to adjust your dog's diet from adult to senior dog food. Conversely, if your dog has trouble keeping the weight off or digestive issues, you may have to switch. If weight is the only issue, consider slightly lowering the quantity of dog food you give to your pet. This may be all the change your dog's diet needs.

A senior dog is classified as a dog in the last third of their life span. Bigger dogs, for example a Great Dane, live to be roughly 9 years old. Around the sixth year of life, you may well want to consider a senior dog's diet. A poodle, on the other hand wouldn't arrive at senior status until nearly age ten because of the longer life expectancy. Primarily, the choice to alter your dog's diet should be based on health condition more than actual age in years. Your vet will help you to determine when the right time is to modify your dog's diet.

Dog food especially prepared for senior dogs normally has less calories. This helps to prevent any weight issues. The senior dog food also includes more fiber for the unique requirements in your dog's diet. As dogs age, they tend to suffer from constipation. This extra fiber will help remedy this issue.

Renal failure can be a further medical issue for senior dogs. How can your dog's diet alleviate this condition? Lowering the amount of protein in your dog's diet will cut the work load for the kidneys. For this reason, senior dog food commonly has lower protein content than usual adult formulas.

Whenever possible, permit your dog to eat dry dog food to encourage excellent dental health. The dry kibble helps to diminish plaque and tartar buildup. If your older pet refuses to eat the food dry, you may need to moisten it with water or purchase moist, canned varieties.

If your vet recommends, supplements may be effective as part of your senior dog's diet. Some pets are unable to eat properly due to oral issues. Other older pets are unable to take advantage of all of the nutrients from their food for numerous health reasons. Supplements such as daily vitamins and glucosamine can be valuable to maintaining a healthy diet for your dog.

Glucosamine helps to support joint health. For senior dogs, glucosamine can battle arthritis and hip displasia.

Vitamins C, A, and E may inhibit the natural aging process and encourage improved health for senior dogs. Talk to your vet about adding such supplements to your dog's diet.

You would like what is best for your pet. Your senior dog needs to have a diet that meets their unique nutritional needs. You and your vet can work jointly to settle on what is the best diet for your senior dog. Your dog's diet directly affects his or her health. Take care of your pet by monitoring your dog's diet carefully with the of your veterinarian.

Author's Resource:

K9 Critical Care is a great resource for information and products to best care for you pet. Learn more about dog diet and dog health at K9CriticalCare.com

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