When your dog starts to develop a gray muzzle, you may start wondering about the ideal dog food for an aging dog.

On this page…

In 2023, we will be sharing The Dog Food Advisor’s top-rated senior dog foods.

Our research team selected many of the exceptional senior recipes listed below because they include:

Above-average protein
Below-average calories
No high-risk preservatives

Fresh and wet recipes were chosen specifically for their soft and chewable texture, making them a safe choice for dogs who have missing teeth or other dental problems.

Furthermore, it is important to note that

None has a history of recent recalls for deadly aflatoxin, and none is considered a repeat offender.

The Dog Food Advisor presents its top senior dog food brands for August 2023, each of which is suitable for older dogs.

Best Senior Dog Food for 2023

Ollie Chicken with Carrots Dog Food

Made with 100% human-grade ingredients, this meal has been designed by a veterinarian to be optimized for your dog’s age, weight, breed size, and activity level.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, carrots, peas, rice, chicken liver
Type: With Grain (rice)
Calories: Custom per order
Price: $$$$

According to the dry matter label analysis, this Ollie recipe, which is suitable for human consumption, obtains the majority of its meat protein from fresh chicken. The analysis shows that the recipe contains approximately 37% protein, 11% fat, and an estimated 44% carbohydrates. Additionally, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 30%.

A highly recommended fresh diet for dogs that is exceptional.

Nom Nom Beef Mash Fresh Dog Food

If you have ever desired to provide your dog with a homemade meal but without the effort, this Nom Nom recipe allows you to do so effortlessly.

First 5 ingredients: Ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, peas
Type: Grain-free
Calories: 1239 kcal per kg

The majority of the animal protein in Nom Nom Beef Mash comes from freshly ground beef. When analyzing the dry matter label, it is determined that the recipe contains 35% protein, 17% fat, and an estimated 40% carbs. Additionally, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 50%.

A board-certified veterinary nutritionist has designed this recipe to be suitable for all life stages, including seniors.

Older dogs may find Beef Mash and Turkey Fare formulas to be safer choices due to their lower fat-to-protein ratios compared to the other recipes.

This is an outstanding and grain-free choice… perfect for individuals seeking to provide a nutritionally balanced meal that closely resembles homemade food. It is quite expensive, but highly recommended.

The Farmer’s Dog

Here’s a simple method to provide a well-balanced, close-to-homemade meal for your senior pet that has been formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.

First 5 ingredients: Turkey, chickpeas, carrots, broccoli, spinach
Type: Grain-free
Calories: Custom per order

The formula used in This Farmer’s Dog is of human-grade quality and primarily consists of fresh turkey for its meat protein. When analyzing the dry matter label, it can be observed that the recipe contains approximately 33% protein, 19% fat, and an estimated 40% carbs. Moreover, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 56%.

In contrast to brands that utilize computer programs to substantiate their nutrient content…

Over a period of 6 years, The Farmer’s Dog conducted live feeding trials on real dogs belonging to various breed sizes and ages, using a method which we believe is better than AAFCO’s gold standard system.

With its ability to cater to seniors of all breeds, this recipe is highly recommended.

We Feed Raw Turkey Patties

First 5 ingredients: Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix
Type: Grain-free
Profile: All Life Stages

The majority of the animal protein in We Feed Raw Turkey Patties comes from turkey. When analyzing the dry matter label, it is found that the recipe consists of 49% protein, 25% fat, and 18% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 52%.

Ingredients of high quality are highly recommended.

Wellness Core Senior Dog Food

If you are in search of a diet that is suitable for an older dog and is low in calories, Wellness Core Senior is the ideal option.

First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, chicken meal, lentils, dried ground potatoes, peas
Type: Grain-free
Calories: 359 kcal per cup

The majority of the meat protein in Wellness Core Senior comes from fresh turkey and chicken meal. When analyzing the label’s dry matter, it is found that the recipe has 36% protein, 13% fat, and 43% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 38%.

Core Senior is a premium recipe for older dogs that contains a grain-free formula with abundant omega-rich salmon oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin for joint health and optimal calories to support weight control. It comes highly recommended.

Open Farm Senior Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Turkey, chicken, sweet potato, ocean whitefish meal, peas
Type: Grain-free
Calories: 436 kcal per cup
Price: $$$

The main source of meat protein in this Open Farm formula is fresh turkey. When the dry matter of the recipe is analyzed according to the label, it shows that it contains 34% protein, 14% fat, and 44% estimated carbs. Additionally, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 40%.

Enthusiastically recommended is a high in protein option made with fresh ingredients.

Orijen Senior Dog Food

If you are in search of a grain-free formula that is primarily composed of animal protein, then this particular dog food should be given serious consideration.

First 5 ingredients:Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, turkey giblets (liver, heart, gizzard)
Type: Grain-free
Calories: 417 kcal per cup
Price: $$$

The primary sources of meat protein in Orijen Senior are fresh chicken, turkey, and fish. When we analyze the label for dry matter, we find that the recipe contains 43% protein, 17% fat, and 32% estimated carbs. The fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 39%.

Champion Petfoods, the renowned producer of Orijen, has consistently supported a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” diet since its inception. This well-established approach is what makes this food an excellent option for senior pets, highly recommended.

Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Senior Chicken and Rice

Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which is comparable to Alzheimer’s in humans, is becoming more prevalent among older dogs. This distinctive senior formula outshines any other dog food we have found, making it an excellent choice for individuals worried about this significant health problem.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, poultry by-product meal, rice, whole grain corn, corn gluten meal
Type: With grain (rice, whole grain corn, corn gluten meal)
Calories: 423 kcal per cup
Price: $

The main source of animal protein in this Pro Plan senior recipe is fresh chicken and poultry meal. When we analyze the recipe based on its dry matter label, we find that it has a protein content of 33%, a fat content of 16%, and estimated carbs of 43%… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 48%.

Furthermore, the inclusion of glucosamine and DHA in Bright Mind ensures the promotion of healthy joints, while its incorporation of prebiotic fiber aids digestion.

The reason we find this recipe particularly exciting is because it includes MCT, a fatty-acid obtained from specific vegetable oils. Research has revealed that MCT has the potential to enhance cognitive function in elderly dogs, which is why it is a valuable ingredient in both this senior recipe and any other.

Pro Plan Bright Mind is highly recommended due to its thoughtful and scientific design, which makes it an ideal choice for many older dogs.

Go! Carnivore Senior Formula

Go! Senior provides a unique and exceptional grain-free alternative for older pets, as all five of its initial ingredients are derived from animal protein.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, turkey meal, salmon meal, de-boned chicken, de-boned turkey
Type: Grain-free
Calories: 394 kcal per cup
Price: $$

The main source of meat protein in the Go! Carnivore formula is a combination of several poultry meals and salmon meal. When we analyze the label for dry matter, we find that the formula contains 36% protein, 16% fat, and 41% estimated carbs. The ratio of fat to protein is approximately 44%.

This GMO-free brand is enthusiastically recommended for your senior dog due to its solid choice of not including wheat, corn, or soy and the inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin to support hip and joint health.

Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Senior Dog Food

Nulo Freestyle Senior contains L-carnitine and other special anti-aging ingredients that can provide significant benefits to older dogs.

First 5 ingredients: Deboned trout, turkey meal, salmon meal, yellow peas, sweet potato
Type: Grain-free
Calories: 396 kcal per cup
Price: $$

The main sources of animal protein in Freestyle Senior are fresh trout, turkey, and salmon meals. When we analyze the dry matter label, we find that the recipe consists of 33% protein, 13% fat, and approximately 45% estimated carbs. Additionally, the fat-to-protein ratio is around 40%.

This recipe is highly recommended because it includes L-carnitine for improved weight control, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. It is a great option for senior dogs.

Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult Senior Dog Food

Iams ProActive Health Mature Adult is an excellent choice for older dogs who prefer a simple formula with grains and without any plant-based protein boosters.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain barley, ground whole grain corn, ground whole grain sorghum
Type: With grain (barley, whole grain corn, sorghum)
Calories: 350 kcal per cup
Price: $

The main source of meat protein in Iams Mature Adult is fresh chicken. When looking at the dry matter label analysis, the recipe is found to have 27% protein, 12% fat, and approximately 54% estimated carbs. The fat-to-protein ratio is about 44%.

ProActive Health is a well-established brand that includes various senior recipes, all of which contain L-carnitine. This ingredient aids in fat burning, ultimately making it simpler to maintain a healthy weight for older dogs. This brand comes highly recommended.

Victor Senior Healthy Weight

Victor Senior, which is fortified with multiple antioxidants and an effective fat-burning supplement, is a suitable choice for older dogs. This specific dry recipe is among the 6 included in our review of the Victor Purpose product line.

First 5 ingredients: Beef meal, whole grain brown rice, whole grain millet, grain sorghum, chicken fat
Type: With grain (brown rice, millet, sorghum)
Calories: 370 kcal per cup

The main source of animal protein in Victor Senior Healthy Weight comes from beef meal. When we analyze the label on a dry matter basis, we find that the recipe contains 30% protein, 13% fat, and an estimated 50% of carbohydrates. The fat-to-protein ratio of the food is approximately 43%.

Ideal for your aging pet, this balanced and budget-friendly option with a low-cost, reduced calorie formula is also enriched with L-carnitine to effectively control weight. Additionally, it contains glucosamine and chondroitin to promote healthy joints. It is highly recommended.

Chicken Soup for the Soul Senior Wet Dog Food

In our review of the Chicken Soup for the Soul wet product line, we cover 10 different wet recipes, including the Classic Mature Paté.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, turkey broth, turkey, chicken liver
Type: With grain (brown rice, oatmeal
Calories: 395 kcal per cup

This senior formula of finely-chopped Paté mainly obtains its animal protein from fresh chicken. The analysis of the label considering the dry matter shows that the recipe consists of 34% protein, 18% fat, and 40% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 53%.

We appreciate the fact that this traditional wet formula does not include any corn, wheat, or soy, and that it is completely devoid of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Additionally, its super-fine consistency is perfect for dogs who have missing teeth or dental issues.

Highly recommended, this top wet food is ideal for picky seniors.

Diamond Naturals Senior Dog

Diamond Senior is an exceptional and affordable choice for older dogs, as it contains a perfect combination of protein, fat, and micro-nutrients.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain brown rice, cracked pearled barley, ground white rice
Type: With grain (brown rice, barley, white rice)
Calories: 347 kcal per cup
Price: $

The primary source of meat protein in the Diamond Senior formula is fresh chicken and chicken meal. After analyzing the dry matter label, we found that the recipe contains 28% protein, 12% fat, and an estimated 52% carbohydrates. The fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 44%.

This budget-friendly choice is offered by a company that prioritizes safety and includes glucosamine and chondroitin for promoting joint health, along with L-carnitine for managing weight.

Canidae Grain-Free Pure Senior Formula

For those seeking a limited ingredient diet, such as Canidae Grain-Free Pure, it can be an excellent option. Our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure product line includes 10 dry recipes, among them.

First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans
Type: Grain-free
Calories: 409 kcal per cup

The majority of animal protein in Canidae Pure Senior is obtained from fresh chicken and poultry meals. When analyzing the dry matter label, we find that the recipe consists of 31% protein, 11% fat, and approximately 50% estimated carbohydrates. Additionally, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 36%.

Canidae Grain-Free Pure is specially formulated for dogs with food sensitivities, making it suitable for all seniors. Due to its limited ingredient design, this particular diet is free of many common canine allergens such as corn, wheat, soy, or grains. It is highly recommended.

Choosing food for your senior dog

Helping your aging dog thrive

How can we determine if our older dog should follow a specialized senior diet when there is conflicting advice on what to feed them, and much of the available information is influenced by company marketing?

According to Joseph J. Wakshlag, Ph.D. ’05, D.V.M. ’98, a professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation, there is no valid reason to feed a senior diet to an aging dog unless specific problems such as lean body wasting, arthritis, or obesity are observed. He emphasizes that these conditions necessitate different nutritional approaches, implying that there is no universal solution for senior dogs. Therefore, discussing this matter with a veterinarian is crucial as it can be a complex issue.

He proceeds by saying, “Usually, we prefer to have slightly higher protein diets, but a lot of the senior diets available have lower protein content. We prefer the usage of marine oils for more long chain omega-3 fatty acids, but this ultimately leads to increased fat, so we need to be cautious about the fats we incorporate.”

Protein is a priority

Every component of your dog, excluding fat, contributes to its lean body mass.

According to Wakshlag, if the dog is experiencing a decrease in lean body mass, it may be necessary to have a diet that is higher in protein. Protein is crucial for the development and upkeep of muscles, and as dogs get older, they tend to produce less protein naturally, thus increasing the requirement for protein in their diet. A reduction in lean body mass is linked to a higher likelihood of becoming sick and facing mortality.

It is possible for a dog to be overweight or underweight but still have the same amount of lean body mass. While an overweight dog may appear healthier due to the excess fat, both dogs actually lack muscle tissue. The thighs and shoulders of a dog are the easiest areas to assess muscle mass and tone. Decreased muscle mass can be a normal part of aging or indicate an underlying condition like cancer, heart disease, or kidney disease.

Fatty acids

In order to see improvement, it is necessary to administer high doses of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in dogs with arthritis or related mobility issues.

Dr. John Loftus, assistant professor of small animal medicine, advises using a 1,000 mg fish-oil supplement capsule to guarantee your dog receives adequate EPA/DHA. These capsules typically contain about 300 mg of EPA/DHA. The recommended dosage is 1-2 capsules per 10 pounds of body weight.

To assist with arthritis-induced lameness, a dog weighing 50 pounds could be given 5-10 capsules per day.

Caloric needs

As dogs age, they generally become less active, resulting in decreased energy requirements. Consequently, they are more susceptible to becoming obese if their diet remains the same as when they were in their prime.

To be aware of any significant changes, regularly monitor your dog’s body condition and weigh them. It can be challenging to notice slow weight gain in your own dog, which is why regular weighing can be helpful. If your dog continues to go on long hikes and remains active every day, there is no need to reduce portions. However, if your dog is spending more time lounging at home and beginning to gain weight, it’s time to decrease portions or switch to a lower-calorie food.

Palatability counts

Your dog may also experience a decline in their senses as they grow older.

If your dog is unable to smell their food, their appetite may be affected, as scent is a significant factor. Although they may refuse regular kibble, they might still enjoy canned food, which is more appetizing and emits a stronger scent.

Appetite stimulants, like Entyce (capromorelin oral solution), are suitable for addressing a lack of appetite in dogs. However, it is essential to note that Entyce is exclusively obtainable through a prescription from your veterinarian.

Prescription diets

Specific needs can benefit from prescription diets.

Purina JM and Royal Canin Mobility are both beneficial for dogs that have arthritis. Dogs that have canine cognitive disorder may consider Purina NeuroCare. For supporting brain function, Purina Bright Mind provides an over-the-counter diet.

In order to ascertain if these options are suitable for your dog, it is necessary to discuss them with your veterinarian.

Supplements

Glucosamine and chondroitin aid in the support of your dog’s joints, along with alternative options such as “avocado and soybean unsaponifiables” and curcumin. SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine) aids in promoting liver health, while omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can be advantageous for brain function.

To ensure the safety of your pet, it is important to carefully select a supplement and be mindful of the lack of regulation in the animal supplement industry. To avoid purchasing counterfeit products, which are frequently found online, it is advisable to buy supplements from a trusted source such as your veterinarian.

There have been quality control procedures conducted on products with a quality seal from the National Animal Supplement Council in order to guarantee that the contents of the jar match what is stated on the label. Additionally, scientific studies exist to support the effectiveness of other products from Nutramax, such as Cosequin.

What you should know

Loftus suggests that it is beneficial to think in a systematic and organized manner.

Consider getting an individualized diet assessment
Remember that optimal nutrition for aging starts early
Diet recommendations should be customized to the dog