What Should Senior Dogs Eat and Is Vegan Food a Good Option for Older Dogs?

Senior dogs generally need lower-calorie food with maintained protein quality, added joint support nutrients, and easily digestible ingredients. Plant-based diets can work well for senior dogs, particularly those with food allergies, kidney considerations, or chronic inflammation. V-Planet is formulated for all life stages including seniors and is available across the UAE through Anything Vegan.

Dogs are considered senior at around seven years old for most medium to large breeds, earlier for giant breeds, later for small ones. At this stage, their nutritional needs shift in ways that most standard adult dog food does not address.

What changes in a senior dog's nutritional needs

Caloric requirements decrease Older dogs are typically less active and need fewer calories to avoid weight gain. Obesity in senior dogs accelerates joint deterioration and puts pressure on the cardiovascular system.

Protein quality matters more Senior dogs need high-quality, digestible protein to maintain muscle mass. The common advice to reduce protein in senior dogs is now outdated - most vets recommend maintaining protein levels while improving quality.

Joint health becomes a priority Ingredients that support joint health become more relevant as dogs age. Anti-inflammatory ingredients found in plant-based foods like flaxseed contribute here.

Digestive efficiency decreases Older dogs may absorb nutrients less efficiently. Easily digestible, clean ingredient profiles are more important than for younger dogs.

Why plant-based food can work particularly well for seniors

Senior dogs often have multiple conditions simultaneously - joint problems, skin allergies, and digestive sensitivities. Chicken and beef, the proteins in most standard dog foods, are the most common inflammatory triggers. A plant-based food removes these triggers while maintaining complete nutrition.

For dogs with kidney issues, the phosphorus levels in plant-based foods are often lower than in high-meat diets, which can be relevant in managing early-stage kidney disease (consult your vet before using diet as a management tool for any diagnosed condition).

V-Planet for senior dogs

V-Planet is suitable for all life stages including seniors. The 70g trial pack at AED 15 lets you test whether your senior dog accepts the food before committing to a larger bag.

Order at anythingvegan.ae. 6.8kg: AED 355 | 2.04kg: AED 160 | 70g trial: AED 15. Delivery in 24 to 48 hours.

FAQ

When is a dog considered a senior? Around 7 years old for medium and large breeds. Giant breeds may be considered senior from 5 to 6 years. Small breeds often reach senior stage later, around 9 to 10 years.

Is plant-based dog food good for senior dogs? It can be, particularly for seniors with food allergies, chronic inflammation, or multiple dietary sensitivities. V-Planet is formulated for all life stages including seniors.

Should I reduce protein for my senior dog? Current veterinary guidance favours maintaining protein quality rather than reducing it, unless the dog has a specific condition like kidney disease that requires dietary restriction. Consult your vet.

Is V-Planet suitable for senior dogs? Yes. V-Planet is formulated for all life stages and is available in the UAE through Anything Vegan.