Looking to help your canine companion thrive during their golden years? Choosing the best dog food for senior dogs is essential, especially for dogs that are over 6 to 7 years old. Senior dog food is especially formulated to help them stay healthy, active, and nimble while also preventing common issues in senior dogs like excessive weight gain, constipation, and other issues.
In this Sploot Vets guide, we talk about some of the best senior dog food, their special ingredients, and how to choose the best one for your furry friend!
Overview:
- Dogs mature at different rates, with larger dogs typically reaching their senior years sooner.
- Senior dog food is usually formulated for the size of the dog, with formulations split between smaller dog breeds and larger dog breeds. Depending on the manufacturer, medium-sized dogs may be counted among the smaller breeds or the larger breeds.
- Choosing the best dog food for senior dogs is just one aspect of overall senior dog care.
Does Senior Dog Food Make A Difference?
Yes, senior dog food makes a difference for an older dog’s overall physical and cognitive health. These dog foods are typically formulated with some or all of the following:
- Insoluble fibers – Support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, helping prevent constipation in older dogs (a common issue).
- Antioxidants – Protect cells from damage, boosting immune function and slowing age-related decline
- Omega-3 for dogs – Reduce inflammation, support joint health, and promote a shiny, healthy coat
- Glucosamine – Helps maintain cartilage and joint mobility, easing stiffness in aging dogs
- B Vitamins – Support energy metabolism, brain function, and overall vitality in senior dogs.
- Vitamin D3 – Aids in calcium absorption for strong bones and muscle function.
When Should A Dog Eat Senior Dog Food?
On average, dogs are considered ‘senior’ upon reaching 7 years of age. However, dogs mature at different rates, and while individual factors play a part, the rate of aging is greatly influenced by the size of the dog. Here’s how:
- Larger dog breeds → age faster. These dogs are typically considered senior once they are at least 6 to 8 years old.
- Medium dog breeds → somewhere in the middle. Medium-sized dogs reach their senior years once they are at least 8 to 10 years old.
- Smaller dog breeds → age more slowly. Small dogs become senior dogs once they are at least 8 to 11 years old.
→ Learn more - How To Calculate Dog Years to Human Years [Vet-Approved]
What Is The Best Food For Senior Dogs?
Choosing the best food for your senior dog depends on their individual needs. At the end of the day, the best senior dog food for your pup is the one recommended by an experienced vet who knows their medical history thoroughly.
Sploot veterinarian Dr. Sylvia Berns shares the importance of wellness exams and bloodwork when recommending the best diet for older dogs: “Bloodwork can help us determine if a senior dog needs to be on a prescription diet for several reasons—such as kidney disease, liver disease, and so on. Also, an orthopedic exam may provide clues that a prescription diet for supporting joint health may be beneficial.”
In addition, here are other things to look for:
- Size-Appropriate Formula – Tailored to the unique nutritional and kibble-size needs of small-to-medium or medium-to-large dogs (groupings vary per manufacturer). This ensures optimal digestion and comfort.
- AAFCO-Approved – Meets the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials, guaranteeing complete and balanced nutrition for senior dogs.
- From a Reputable Brand – Developed with scientific precision, backed by veterinary expertise, and trusted for decades.
- Have Beneficial Ingredients – Packed with essential nutrients, high-quality protein, joint-support compounds, brain-boosting nutrients, and so on for overall health. These help senior dogs stay active and healthy as the years go by.
3 Best Senior Dog Food for Small Dogs
While small dogs age more slowly than larger dogs, starting at around the age of 7 years old allows pet parents to proactively support their dog’s joint health, cognitive function, and overall vitality before age-related changes surface.
Here are some of the best, top-rated dog foods for small senior dogs:
Note: The following are available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
1. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Senior Vitality [Wet & Dry]
Specially formulated for small dogs over seven years old, Hill’s Science Diet Small & Mini Senior Vitality is a popular choice because it blends high-quality protein with the following key ingredients:
- Antioxidants – Including lipoic acid, dried citrus pulp, spinach, and vitamins A, C, and K. These support the immune system, overall health, and vitality.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – From fish oil and flaxseed; these support brain function, energy levels, joint health, and coat health.
- Lycopene – From dried tomato pomace; protects the heart and provides added antioxidant benefits.
2. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Active Longevity Small Bites [Dry]
Designed to keep small senior dogs feeling young at heart, this dry formula contains high-quality chicken protein for lean muscles, along with the following beneficial ingredients:
- Antioxidants – From cranberries and apples; for immune and digestive support.
- Omega-3 – From flaxseed; supports skin, coat, joint, and heart health.
- Dried Beet Pulp – A natural prebiotic fiber source that supports healthy gut bacteria and digestive health.
- L-Carnitine – Helps metabolize fat for energy and supports lean muscle mass in aging dogs.
3. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition – Small Aging 12+ [Dry]
Tailored for the unique needs of senior dogs over 12 years old, this formula features textured kibble for easy chewing, high-quality protein, an exclusive complex of antioxidants, and other beneficial ingredients, such as the following:
- Antioxidants — from vitamin E, vitamin C, rosemary extract, and beta-carotene; for immune support, healthy aging, and cellular protection.
- Marigold Extract – Rich in lutein, which supports eye and brain health.
- Lycopene – from dried tomato pomace; protects the heart and provides additional antioxidant benefits.
3 Best Senior Dog Food for Medium & Large Dogs
Oftentimes, senior dog foods for medium and larger breeds are either grouped together or exclusively formulated for larger dogs. These are typically intended for dogs at least 7 to 8 years old. Here are some examples:
Note: Most of the following have counterparts formulated for small dogs, and in the sections ahead, we highlight how they differ from small-breed product versions—showing how the following are especially tailored for medium-sized and/or larger breeds.
Additional Note: The following are available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
1. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality [Wet & Dry]
Formulated for medium-to-large senior dogs, this formula combines a unique blend of high-quality protein, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and more. Here is a more detailed list of noteworthy ingredients in this dog food for senior dogs:
- Omega-3 fatty acids – From fish oil and flaxseed; these support brain function, energy levels, coat health, and joint health. Since medium and large dogs are prone to joint issues, this ingredient is highly beneficial for them.
- Antioxidants – Including lipoic acid, dried citrus pulp, spinach, and vitamins A, C, and K. These promote better immune function, overall wellness, and long-term vitality in medium and large breeds.
- Lycopene – From dried tomato pomace; helps protect heart health and provides powerful antioxidant support for aging large-breed dogs.
Note: Compared to the Small & Mini formula, the Medium/Large Senior Vitality formula has a lower calorie density to suit the slower metabolism of bigger breeds and comes in a larger, more textured kibble.
2. Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Active Longevity [Dry]
Focused on promoting youthful vitality, this recipe delivers lean muscle support through premium protein, while an optimal antioxidant blend boosts immune defenses. Here is a list of this senior dog food’s key ingredients:
- Omega-3 fatty acids — From flaxseed; help maintain joint comfort, skin health, and a glossy coat, keeping medium and large breeds active and agile.
- Antioxidants – From vitamin E, vitamin C, cranberries, apples, and broccoli; protect cells, boost immune function, and promote long-term health for medium and large breeds.
- Dried Beet Pulp – Natural prebiotic fiber for healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
- L-Carnitine – Supports lean muscle maintenance and fat metabolism in senior dogs
Note: Compared to the Small Bites formula, this blend puts a stronger emphasis on a broader antioxidant profile, supporting medium and larger senior dogs that age at a faster rate than smaller breeds.
3. Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition – Large Aging 8+ [Dry]
Specially formulated for large breeds, 8 years old and above, Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition – Large Aging 8+ supports joint health with glucosamine and chondroitin, along with other beneficial ingredients.
Here’s a deeper look into what this dog food for large senior dogs has to offer:
- Glucosamine Hydrochloride – Supports cartilage repair and joint mobility in large, aging dogs.
- Chondroitin Sulfate – Works with glucosamine to protect cartilage and ease joint stiffness.
- GLA Safflower Oil – A source of gamma-linolenic acid, an anti-inflammatory fatty acid for skin and joint health.
- Fish Oil – Omega-3s (EPA & DHA) for joint comfort, brain function, and coat health.
- Antioxidants — from vitamin E, vitamin C, lutein (marigold extract), lycopene, rosemary extract, and green tea extract. These support immune health, healthy aging, and cellular protection.
Note: Compared to the Small Aging 12+ formulation, this large-breed senior dog food includes added joint-supporting ingredients to help prevent or ease the joint issues more common in bigger, older dogs.
Other Senior Dog Food
Certain dog foods for senior dogs are not grouped based on size. They can be suitable for all dogs or just for specific breeds. The starting age for these formulas is typically around 7 to 8 years old. Here are some examples:
Note: The following are available on the SplootRX online pet store. Get 35% off (up to $20) on your first order with the promo code AUTO35.
1. Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind™ Adult 7+ [Wet & Dry]
Developed to nourish cognitive health in older dogs, Bright Mind™ contains enhanced botanical oils, high-quality protein from chicken, and other healthy ingredients for senior dogs.
Here’s a closer look at what this dog food formula has to offer, in both its wet and dry food varieties:
- Medium-Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Vegetable Oil – supports brain function and mental sharpness in senior dogs. (unique ingredient)
- Antioxidants — from vitamin E, vitamin A, and trace minerals; for cognitive health, immune support, and healthy aging.
- Choline Chloride – Important for brain health, liver function, and metabolism.
- Potassium Chloride – Essential electrolyte for heart and muscle function.
2. Royal Canin Breed Health 8+
This tailored nutrition line is formulated for specific breeds over 8 years old, with custom kibble shapes and targeted nutrient profiles.
Depending on the breed, special ingredients may include some or all of the following:
- Omega-3 – From fish oil; for brain health, joint support, and skin/coat health.
- Glucosamine Hydrochloride – Supports joint cartilage health and mobility in senior dogs.
- Chondroitin Sulfate – Works with glucosamine to protect joints and reduce stiffness.
- Marigold Extract – Source of lutein, an antioxidant that supports eye health and overall cellular protection.
- Green Tea Extract – Rich in catechins, powerful antioxidants that help protect against cellular damage and support immune health
Note: This senior dog food is available on SplootRX for certain breeds only.
Final Thoughts on Senior Dog Food
Choosing the right senior dog food is about more than just age; it’s about matching your dog’s size, activity level, and specific health needs with the right nutrition. This is why consulting a trusted vet is the best starting point.
In addition, we’d like to remind pet parents that getting the best senior dog food is only the first step. To keep your senior pup in great shape, we recommend:
- Consistent senior dog care and grooming
- Bi-yearly pet wellness exams with senior blood panel and dental care
- A well-rounded lifestyle and weight control
Sploot Vets: All-in-One Vet Care for Senior Dogs
If you need help choosing the best dog food for your senior dog or have specific questions about your pet’s health, we’re here to help!
Sploot Veterinary Care provides all-in-one vet care with primary care, urgent care, and emergency vet services all under one woof™!
We also offer a Fear Free veterinary approach that prioritizes your pet’s well-being and comfort. Our doors are open 365 days a year, with extended hours, so that we are here for you when it matters most!
Experience next-level care in one of our vet clinics in Denver, Colorado Springs, and Chicago. Book an appointment easily online or through the Sploot Vets app today!
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