Mature & Senior Dog Food

As your dog ages, their nutritional needs change, meaning they may need less protein and fat, and more fibre and antioxidants. Discover a wide variety of trusted brands of mature adult and senior dog food. Our selection includes food for all sizes, breeds, and dogs with special dietary needs.

style

max-width-two-thirds

Discover the Best Senior Dog Food in the UK

At Pet Drugs Online, we offer a vast range of the best senior dog food, with fast delivery to most of the UK. With popular brands such as Purina, Hill's, James Wellbeloved and more, everything your dog needs to stay healthy in their senior years is right at your fingertips.

The best food for elderly dogs is tailored to meet their changing nutritional needs, which differ significantly from those of younger canines. Senior dogs are generally less active and have slower metabolisms, so their diets require fewer calories and less fat.

What to consider when choosing food for senior dogs:

Lower protein content: Older dogs may struggle to digest protein, so their food often contains reduced levels compared to regular options.
Joint support nutrient s: Many formulas include glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain healthy joints.
Omega-3 fatty acids: These reduce inflammation and support skin and coat health.
Antioxidants: Added antioxidants protect cells from damage and promote overall health.

Selecting the right food depends on factors like size, weight, breed, and activity level. For example, smaller breeds may develop dental issues as they age, making foods with higher moisture content or formulas designed for small breeds particularly beneficial.

style

max-width-two-thirds

Senior Dog Food FAQs

What is the difference between senior dog food and regular?

Food for senior dogs meets the nutritional needs of older dogs, which differ from those of younger dogs. Senior dogs are typically less active and have slower metabolisms, so they need fewer calories and fat. Elderly dogs also have a harder time digesting protein, so their food often has a lower protein content than regular dog food, helping to increase their quality of life.

Senior dog food may also contain additional nutrients that are beneficial for older dogs, such as;

Glucosamine and chondroitin to help to support joint health.
Omega-3 fatty acids that hold anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve skin and coat health.
Antioxidants to help to protect cells from damage.

When should I start feeding my dog senior dog food?

The ideal age to transition your dog to senior/mature adult dog food can vary by breed and size, but it's generally around 7 years old. Some dogs may only show signs of ageing once they are 9 or 10 years old.

While some dogs may not show signs of ageing until they are nine or ten, the ideal age to transition to senior dog food is generally around seven years old. Signs that your dog may need to transition to senior food are:

Your dog is losing weight or muscle mass
Your dog is becoming less active
Your dog has difficulty with digestion
Your dog has developed problems like arthritis or kidney disease

What are the nutritional differences between senior dog food and regular dog food?

The best way to understand the specific dietary needs of your elderly dog is to ask your veterinarian to perform a physical and nutritional assessment and examination. This may identify potential nutrient deficiencies and allow you to tailor the diet as necessary.

How do I know if my senior dog has specific dietary needs?

How do I transition my dog to senior dog food?

After choosing the right diet for your senior dog, it’s important to transition them gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Start by mixing a small portion of the new food with their current diet, gradually increasing the proportion of the new food over a period of about 10 days. By the end of two weeks, your dog should be fully transitioned to their new diet, ensuring a smooth and comfortable adjustment.

Should I choose wet or dry food for my senior dog?

While there are benefits to both types of food for mature dogs, wet food may be better for them as it is easier to digest and rich in fluids to ensure they remain hydrated.

Can senior dog food help with joint health and mobility?

The best dog food for older dogs can help with joint health and mobility. Check that it includes fruits, vegetables, healthy Omega-3 fatty acids and ingredients like green lipped mussel which can help to alleviate any joint-related symptoms.

Does senior dog food help with weight management in older dogs?

A good senior dog food can help to manage your furry friend’s weight. These foods tend to have less fat and calories which can help to manage any weight related issues.

How much should I feed my senior dog?

Determining the right portion size for your senior dog is crucial to their well-being.

A good rule of thumb is to start by feeding your senior dog 20-30% less food than you were feeding them when they were younger. You can then adjust the amount of food you feed them based on their weight and body condition.