Best Senior Dog Foods in 2025: According to Vets

You wouldn’t feed an 80-year-old the same diet as a teenager, so why do so many dog owners stick with the same kibble as their pup ages? As dogs enter their golden years, their metabolism slows, joints stiffen, and digestion becomes more sensitive—but the wrong diet can accelerate these issues instead of easing them. Here’s the kicker: many so-called “senior dog foods” are packed with fillers, lack crucial nutrients, or even contain ingredients that can worsen arthritis and cognitive decline. So, how do you separate marketing gimmicks from truly beneficial nutrition? This guide will break down the key nutrients aging dogs need, reveal the best senior dog food options (backed by science, not just labels), and help you tailor your dog’s diet to keep them thriving well into their later years.

The Importance of Choosing The Best Food For Senior Dogs

As dogs age, their nutritional needs evolve due to physiological changes such as slowed metabolism, reduced activity, and increased susceptibility to chronic conditions. Selecting optimal nutrition for senior dogs is critical to enhancing their quality of life and longevity.

Aging dogs experience a decline in muscle mass and metabolic efficiency, leading to increased protein needs. Dr. Joseph J. Wakshlag of Cornell University highlights that elderly dogs may require at least a 50% increase in dietary protein to maintain lean body mass. This assertion is supported by a Purina study where 8-year-old Pointers fed a high-protein diet (45% protein) over two years preserved more lean body mass and had a smaller increase in fat mass compared to those on a lower-protein diet (16.5% protein).^[1] In addition, joint deterioration, including conditions like osteoarthritis, is prevalent among senior dogs, so providing a diet that prevents or alleviates joint discomfort and enhances mobility is essential.^[2]

How to Pick the Best Senior Dog Food

Some of the most important things to consider when selecting food for senior dogs.

• High-quality protein – Animal-based proteins (chicken, fish, beef) support muscle.
• Joint support – Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s aid mobility and bones.
• Easy digestion – Gentle carbs, prebiotics, and probiotics improve gut health.
• Weight control – Lower calories for inactive dogs, higher for active ones.
• Cognitive and immune health – DHA, EPA, and vitamins C & E boost function.
• Special diet needs – Adjust for kidney disease, diabetes, or allergies.
• Food type – Dry aids dental health, wet is easier to chew, fresh is nutrient-rich.
• AAFCO & vet approval – Ensure it meets AAFCO guidelines and consult your vet.

Before Changing Your Dog’s Diet

Always work with your vet before changing your dog’s diet. You can get personalized nutritional advice from an online registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet and ask them questions about your senior dog’s nutritional needs. If your dog experiences digestive issues, determining whether they stem from aging, food sensitivities, or an underlying condition is crucial. An at-home dog gut health test can provide valuable insights by analyzing your dog’s microbiome and detecting imbalances contributing to stomach discomfort or health problems. Similarly, an at-home dog allergy testing kit can identify specific food allergens triggering stomach sensitivities. With these insights, you can confidently choose the best senior dog food to support digestion, joint health, and overall well-being.

Best Food For Senior Dogs

Here are Canine Bible’s best dog food brands for senior dogs of this year.

Best Overall Senior Dog Food

Recipes: Turkey, beef, pork & Chicken

Protein: 36%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 1%

Diet: Human-grade, AAFCO

Why we recommended it: Nom Nom provides a well-balanced, board-certified veterinary nutritionist-formulated diet that supports senior dogs’ changing nutritional needs. The fresh, minimally processed ingredients ensure optimal nutrient absorption, helping to maintain lean muscle mass, support cognitive function, and promote overall vitality. Unlike traditional kibble, which can be harsh on aging digestive systems, Nom Nom’s soft texture is easier to chew and digest, making it a practical choice for older dogs with dental issues. It’s the most nutritious and palatable diet for aging dogs because it uses human-grade, restaurant-quality ingredients and is gently cooked preserving most of the flavor and nutrients.

What sets it apart from competitors: Nom Nom offers a personalized approach. Each meal is pre-portioned based on a dog’s age, weight, and activity level, eliminating guesswork for owners. Nom Nom meals are supplemented with a a proprietary blend of ingredients called “NomNomNutrient Mix” to ensure meals are entirely balanced.

Get 50% OFF your first Nom Nom order with Canine Bible’s link.

Best Dry Food for Senior Dogs

Recipes: Chicken, turkey & whitefish

Protein: 31%

Fat: 12.5%

Fiber: 4.5%

Diet: Human-grade, AAFCO

Why we recommended it: Open Farm senior dry dog food prioritizes ingredients beneficial for seniors. This formula includes glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel, providing exceptional joint support, promoting flexibility, and reducing the risk of arthritis, a common issue in older dogs.  Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed support cognitive function, heart health and skin health, while fiber-rich ingredients like sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils aid in digestion. Plus, it’s grain-free so it can be gentler on sensitive stomachs. The company also adheres to high animal welfare standards, making it a strong choice for pet owners who value ethical sourcing.

What sets it apart from competitors: Open Farm uses humanely raised meat as the primary protein source, ensuring better digestibility and nutritional value. Moreover, it combines beneficial ingredients with natural antioxidants from cranberries, raspberries, and dandelion greens, ensuring a comprehensive approach to senior dog health without relying on fillers or artificial additives. Every ingredient is traceable back to its source.

Best Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs

Recipes: Chickena & vegetable stew

Protein: 3%

Fat: 2%

Fiber: 2%

Diet: Natural-ingredients, AAFCO

Why we recommended it: Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew is crafted with a proprietary blend of ingredients that cater to the unique needs of senior dogs. It supports brain function, promotes energy and vitality, and helps maintain a healthy coat. The inclusion of high-quality protein aids in lean muscle maintenance, while the stew’s palatable texture appeals to older dogs.

What sets it apart from competitors: The proprietary blend of ingredients is specifically designed to combat the effects of aging, which is not commonly addressed in many other senior dog foods. Additionally, they only use natural ingredients with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, ensuring a balanced diet without artificial additives.

Best Dog Food For Seniors With Sensitive Stomachs

Recipes: Lamb & rice

Protein: 7.5%

Fat: 5%

Fiber: 1.5%

Diet: AAFCO | Human-grade

Why we recommended it: JustFoodForDogs Senior dog food provides highly digestible, whole-food ingredients tailored to an older dog’s slower metabolism and digestive needs. It’s prepared in USDA-certified kitchens with ingredients like ground lamb, brown rice, and blueberries—this balanced mix of natural ingredients ensures that senior dogs get the necessary energy and lean muscle support without putting unnecessary strain on their digestive system. Lamb serves as a novel protein source, reducing the risk of triggering food allergies common in dogs. Brown rice offers a source of complex carbohydrates that help stabilize digestion, regulate bowel movements, and minimize bloating or diarrhea.

What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike heavily processed senior dog foods, this meal is lightly cooked and frozen to maintain freshness without artificial preservatives while preserving enzymes and bioavailability—critical for seniors with weakened digestion.

Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs with Allergies

Recipes: Beef, cod/salmon, chicken & turkey

Protein: 25% to 27%

Fat: 16% to 22%

Fiber: 3% to 4%

Diet: AAFCO | Human-grade

Why we recommended it: Spot & Tango UnKibble offers human-grade, whole-food ingredients in a convenient, shelf-stable format. It uses simple ingredients that are ideal for a picky eater or senior dog with allergies. The absence of artificial additives and preservatives reduces the risk of allergic reactions, making it a safer choice for sensitive senior dogs. Moreover, the gently dried preparation preserves nutritional integrity, supporting overall health and vitality in aging pets. Older dogs with lower energy levels or dental issues also benefit, as the rehydratable texture is gentler on teeth than hard kibble.

What sets it apart from competitors: UnKibble provides the benefits of fresh food in a dry form. Their innovative Fresh Dry™ technology gently cooks and locks in nearly 100% of nutrients. It doesn’t need refrigeration and is boosted with super herbs for join, immunity, digestive support, and more.

Best Dehydrated Dog Food for Senior Dogs (Bad or No Teeth)

Recipes: Beef, chicken, turkey & fish

Protein: 25% to 27%

Fat: 16% to 22%

Fiber: 3% to 4%

Diet: AAFCO | Human-grade

Why we recommended it: The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food offers safety and digestibility. It’s human-grade labeled, meaning every ingredient meets FDA standards for human consumption, reducing contamination risks—a relief for seniors with weakened immune systems. The rehydration process creates a soft texture, making it easier for senior dogs with dental issues to consume and digest. Simply add warm water and wait three minutes for a tasty, homemade meal you and your senior pup will love.

What sets it apart from competitors: The Honest Kitchen’s gently dehydrated meals retain more natural nutrients, flavors, and enzymes than traditional kibble, making them closer to a fresh or raw diet but in a shelf-stable form.

Get 40% OFF your order with code 40CANINEBIBLE — Just use this link to get started.

Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food for Senior Dogs

Recipes: Turkey & salmon

Protein: 22%

Fat: 10%

Fiber: 5%

Diet: AAFCO | Human-grade

Why we recommended it: Sojos senior freeze-dried formula combines high-quality, freeze-dried raw turkey and salmon with a blend of nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables. The inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin supports joint health, which is crucial for maintaining mobility in senior dogs. The grain-free formula minimizes potential allergens, promoting better digestion and skin health. Moreover, it’s simple to prepare—just add water and let it soak—makes mealtime convenient while ensuring your dog receives a fresh, wholesome meal. It’s also grain-free without relying on heavy starches—instead, chickpeas and sweet potatoes offer digestible carbs.

What sets it apart from competitors: The gentle freeze-drying process preserves the nutritional integrity of the raw ingredients, offering a diet that closely mimics what dogs would eat in the wild. This approach ensures that essential enzymes and nutrients remain intact, supporting overall health and vitality in senior dogs.

Best Raw Dog Food For Senior Dogs

Recipes: Beef, turkey, chicken, venison, duck, lamb

Protein: 46%

Fat: 31%

Fiber: 1%

Diet: AAFCO | Human-grade

Why we recommended it: This raw diet mimics a dog’s natural eating habits, offering bioavailable nutrients that seniors absorb more efficiently. We Feed Raw offers nutritionally complete and balanced meals formulated by a Ph.D. animal nutritionist, ensuring senior dogs receive all essential nutrients in appropriate ratios. The inclusion of finely ground bones makes the texture suitable even for dogs with dental challenges, allowing them to consume the food comfortably. Owners often report noticeable improvements in mobility and reduced stiffness, likely due to the anti-inflammatory benefits of omega-3-rich proteins like grass-fed beef or turkey. The high moisture content helps keep older dogs hydrated, supporting kidney function—a common concern in aging pets.

What sets it apart from competitors: We Feed Raw distinguishes itself through its personalized meal plans tailored to each dog’s specific needs, considering factors like age, weight, activity level, and health concerns. Their recipes are protein-packed with 80% meat and organs and 15% non-GMO fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals to give your dog a complete BARF diet. It’s minimally processed, never cooked, pure, natural nutrition to keep your best friend strong. 

Get 25% OFF your order with the code CB25. Use Canine Bible’s link to get started.

Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs with Joint Pain & Arthritis

Recipes: Chicken & brown rice

Protein: 28%

Fat: 12%

Fiber: 3%

Diet: AAFCO | Natural

Why we recommended it: Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Mobility contains EPA from fish oil (a key omega-3), which helps maintain joint cartilage health, supporting improved mobility. Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin provide building blocks for healthy cartilage, essential for dogs with joint concerns. Additionally, this formula integrates antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene for immune health—critical for seniors. It also boasts a balanced set of minerals that promote strong bones, further aiding in mobility and overall skeletal health.

What sets it apart from competitors: Adds L-carnitine to support a healthy metabolism. Hill’s avoids artificial preservatives, leaning on vitamin E and citric acid for freshness, which gentler stomachs tolerate better than synthetic alternatives. The inclusion of brown rice and barley provides steady energy without spiking blood sugar, a thoughtful touch for diabetic-prone dogs. Hill’s has a small breed mobility formula for small breeds needing joint and skeletal support.

Best Senior Dog Food for Dementia & Brain Support

Recipes: Chicken & rice

Protein: 29%

Fat: 14%

Fiber: 3%

Diet: AAFCO | Natural

Why we recommended it: Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind includes a proprietary blend of brain-supporting nutrients, including DHA & EPA, antioxidants, B vitamins, and arginine, specifically designed to support cognitive health and to promote alertness and mental sharpness in senior dogs within 30 days. The formula is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health, ensuring comprehensive support for aging canines. The inclusion of glucosamine supports joint health and mobility, which is essential for maintaining an active lifestyle in older dogs. Additionally, the high-quality protein from real chicken aids in maintaining lean muscle mass.

What sets it apart from competitors: Bright Mind combines MCTs with botanical oils for a dual approach: quick energy from ketones and long-term support from DHA. The kibble’s texture is also coated with a savory enhancer, appealing to picky eaters who lose interest in food as cognition wanes. Purina also offers a more powerful, prescription-required alternative, Purina NeuroCare, for more severe cases of cognitive decline.

Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs to Gain Weight

Recipes: Beef, chicken, salmon

Protein: 30%

Fat: 20%

Fiber: 3%

Diet: AAFCO | Natural

Why we recommended it: Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance 30/20 offers 484 calories per cup, more than most traditional senior foods. Most senior dog foods prioritize weight loss, but this formula flips the script with sport-level nutrition tailored for safe weight gain for seniors who have trouble maintaining body condition, as well as those requiring calorie-dense meals without excessive volume. Unlike grain-free alternatives that use heavy legumes, it includes rice and oats for gentle, energy-sustaining carbs. The kibble’s small, uniform size works for seniors with dental issues, and the strong aroma entices even the fussiest eaters.

What sets it apart from competitors: Added glucosamine supports aging joints, a thoughtful touch for seniors who gain mobility as they bulk up. While designed for sporting dogs, its balanced calcium-phosphorus ratio (1.2:1) and omega-3s also benefit seniors by reducing inflammation.

Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs to Lose Weight

Recipes: Chicken, salmon & barley

Protein: 26%

Fat: 7.5%

Fiber: 10.5%

Diet: AAFCO | Natural

Why we recommended it: Natural Balance Original Ultra Fat Dogs delivers a low-calorie recipe crafted with premium proteins like chicken and salmon meals help preserve muscle mass, ensuring your dog receives high-quality nutrition while reducing caloric intake. The inclusion of targeted levels of L-carnitine aids in maintaining a healthy weight by promoting fat metabolism. A special blend of fibers also helps dogs feel fuller longer, reducing overeating and supporting healthy digestion.

What sets it apart from competitors: This diet doesn’t sacrifice taste or nutrition. The recipe includes superfoods and guaranteed levels of antioxidant vitamins and minerals to help maintain a healthy immune system. It’s also grain-inclusive, leaning on digestible barley instead of high-carb fillers like potatoes, which can spike blood sugar. 

Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs with Kidney Problems

Recipes: Beef & turkey

Protein: 29%

Fat: 29%

Fiber: 21%

Diet: Low-phosphorus, human-grade

Why we recommended it: Raised Right’s Kidney Support Recipe provides a low-phosphorus diet, essential for dogs with compromised kidney function. The formulation, developed in collaboration with veterinarians Dr. Karen Becker and Dr. Barbara Royal, ensures that the recipe meets the specific dietary needs of dogs with kidney issues. Additionally, the use of human-grade ingredients provides a wholesome and nutritious meal, supporting overall health while managing kidney-related concerns.

What sets it apart from competitors: It’s a fresh, gently cooked recipe that adheres to human-grade standards, a rarity among veterinary support diets. Each batch undergoes rigorous third-party lab testing for pathogens like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, ensuring safety and quality.

Senior Dog Homemade Food

Homemade food for senior dogs is often recommended because it allows for complete control over ingredients, ensuring that meals are tailored to their specific health needs. As dogs age, they may develop sensitivities to certain commercial ingredients, struggle with digestion, or require a softer texture due to dental issues. Additionally, homemade meals can be adjusted to support conditions like arthritis, kidney health, and weight management, which are common in senior dogs. By preparing meals at home, you can prioritize high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients while avoiding fillers, artificial additives, and preservatives that might negatively impact an aging dog’s health. For a deeper dive into recipes and nutritional guidelines, check out our full article on homemade dog food.

Other Senior Dog Foods

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best food for your aging dog isn’t just about filling their bowl—it’s about giving them the nutrition they need to stay active, comfortable, and happy for as long as possible. The right balance of high-quality protein, joint-supporting nutrients, and easily digestible ingredients can make all the difference in their energy levels, mobility, and overall well-being. By now, you know what to look for (and what to avoid) when selecting senior dog food. Whether you opt for a premium kibble, a fresh or raw diet, or a carefully formulated homemade meal plan, the goal remains the same: supporting your dog’s health through their golden years. Aging is inevitable, but suffering isn’t. With the right diet, your senior dog can enjoy every wag, walk, and cuddle for years.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Optimal Nutrition for Senior Dogs Starts with Avoiding Obesity
2. FEDIAF Scientific Advisory Board Statement Nutrition of senior dogs