This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. I only recommend products that I have personally used!
As pups get older, the kind of dog food they eat becomes really important. Their tummies just can’t seem to handle and digest the same diet as before. If not handled correctly, this can lead to a lot worse problems than a bad tummy ache.
It might just start off as a small change in appetite or bathroom habits can turn into life threatening diseases if you’re not keeping careful watch.
The age and size of your dog can make them a lot more likely to fall victim to things like IVDD and anal gland ruptures. I should know- we’ve dealt with both over the last couple of years even though my little guy never had any health problems previously.
While these things cannot always be prevented, we as pet parents can do a lot of things to lower the chance of it happening to our babies.
That’s why I’m sharing how to prepare the daily meal my dog eats to stay healthy, strong, and happy as a senior dog. This mix of dry dog food, probiotics, protein, and vegetables is manageable and really works.
And of course as always I must tell you: This is not medical advice. I am not medical professional in any way. This is just what I do as a dog mom of 14 years. Always consult your vegetarian if you are unsure or have questions.
The Best Dog Food Meal For Senior Dogs
Purina ONE + Plus Vibrant Maturity
Just like people, dogs start to lose their energy, strength, and awareness as they get older. Get them a dog food that supports mental sharpness, heart health, strong teeth, and healthy energy all in one.
This dry dog food is specially formulated for older dogs. It’s made with chicken as the number one ingredient, has glucosamine for joint and bone support, Omega-6 helps their coat and skin, and protein for healthy muscles.
My dog has eaten the Purina ONE brand his whole life. Once his stomach got a little more sensitive he switched to this version and loves it.
FortiFlora
Just like humans need probiotics for healthy gut health, so do dogs! It helps support good, solid poops. Just sprinkle it in their food and it’s good to go. Dogs seem to love the taste too!
Why is this important? Well besides making your pup feel better and more energetic (think about how sluggish you feel when you’re backed up) it also helps prevent anal gland ruptures.
Ok, we’re about to get gross but this is really, really important. Prepare yourself!
Anal gland ruptures happen when the anal sacks (located on each side of your dogs anus inside the body) get filled. This fluid needs to be extracted by a doctor before the sacks get too full and pop. Ouch!
Here’s where the consistency and texture of your dogs poop comes in. If it is runny our has a hard time coming out it can fill the glands quicker. Instead of coming directly out the right way, fluid can instead detour and fill the anal glands. Once they get full- POP! A big, bloody, painful mess.
Chicken and Vegetables
Mixing some boiled chicken and vegetables (like green beans and chopped carrots) into your K-9’s food is a great way to keep them healthy and switch it up. Not only will your dog love it but it’s a great source of protein and nutrients that store brought dog food may not give.
Meal prepping for your dog may seem strange but it actually makes a big difference.
It’s pretty simple too. Just boil some chicken legs and vegetables. Put it all (chicken, broth, and vegetables) into a couple of Ziplock bags. Leave one in the refrigerator to use and the others in the freezer to take out later. This will last you weeks!
The important thing to remember is- no seasoning. I know- that feels like a crime! But your dog doesn’t need all the salt, sugar, etc. Heck, us humans don’t even need it. It’s not good for us either!
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a natural compound that helps with bone and joint health and arthritis. It is also preventative against inflammation and loss of cartilage.
All the jumping, playing, and zoomies that dogs do can really wear on them in old age. Aching and brittle bones can cause pain, movement difficulties, and even paralysis. Oh no!
Let’s keep those babies running and happy for as long as possible. Incorporating glucosamine into their daily diet plan is a quick way to keep them strong.
There are glucosamine supplements for dogs that can be given as treats or mixed into food.
