Large Breed Senior Dog Food

Best Senior Dog Food For Large Breed

When it comes to choosing the right food for your senior large breed dog, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, your dog’s age and activity level will play a big role in what type of food is best for him or her. Second, you’ll want to choose a food that is high in protein and low in fat, as this will help your dog maintain a healthy weight. And finally, you’ll want to make sure the food you select is specifically designed for large breeds.

Senior Large Breed Dog Nutrition
Dog food for senior dogs can often be introduced to most dogs at around six to seven years of age. Senior large breed dog has also additional feeding requirements that dog owners should be aware of. As large breed dogs can grow at a rate the outpaces the growth of their bones, there are susceptible to higher risk of developing orthopedic disorders. In addition, senior dogs need fewer calories and could eat less, so you would want to feed them with high-quality, easily digestible, sources of proteins.

Senior large breed dog food formulations therefore should have the necessary protein, fibers, carbohydrates and fats needed for a healthy dog food plus additional ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, that can contribute to your senior dog large breed living healthier and longer.

 
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Senior Large Breed Dog Food Nutrients:

(1) Protein – Senior Large Breed dog need quality protein which is key for maintaining their health as they gets older. Without sufficient protein in their diet, seniors dogs lose lean body mass, weakened their immune system, and become lethargic. More recent studies support the point that high quality protein is key in keeping senior dogs healthy.

(2) Glucosamine and Chondroitin – is useful for senior  large breed dogs as they often have joints stiffness thereby limiting their mobility.  With further degeneration of the joints it can eventually leads to arthritis whereby the hips, elbows and knees are most affected.  Glucosamine assists to repair the damaged cartilage within the joint, while chondroitin builds up fluid in the joint thereby preventing further damage.  As such, to nourish the joints and for joint health, most senior large breed dog food should have glucosamine and chondroitin in their formulation.

(3) Vitamins and Minerals – to supplement any nutritional deficiency. Vitamin E should also be present to build up immunity system. Minerals such as calcium to maintain healthy skeletal structure and prevent bone brittleness.

(4) Omega 3 fatty acids – EPA and DHA are important for brain function and development. Dogs that are fed diets without fatty acids tend to experience deficits in learning and memory over time. More so for senior dogs which with the aging of their brains will affect their mental agility. Therefore, it will be good to look out for senior dog food that comes with antioxidants and fatty acids which have been used to slow down this brain aging progression.

Use Good Quality Brands
As senior dogs do not process proteins as well as they could compare to when they are younger, and therefore they do need more protein to make up for this condition.  Therefore, it is important to go for quality protein and nutrients which comes from good or premium brands.

By choosing a high-quality food that is specifically designed for senior large breeds, you can be sure that your dog is getting all of the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy well into their golden years.

With the important considerations above, we are recommending here some of the best senior large breed dog food products from top rated brands such as PURINA, IAMS, NUTRO WHOLESOME, HILL’S SCIENCE, BLUE BUFFALO, EUKANUBA, ROYAL CANIN which are fortified with the above nutrients for your review and selection.

FAQs on Senior Large Breed Dog Food

Q: How do I know if my dog needs a senior diet?

A: If your dog is starting to slow down and isn’t as active as he used to be, it may be time to switch him to a senior diet. Your veterinarian can also advise you on whether a senior diet is right for your dog.

Q: What should I look for in a senior large breed dog food?

A: When choosing a senior large breed dog food, you should look for a formula that is designed for older dogs. The formula should be high in protein and low in calories to help maintain a healthy weight. It should also contain joint-supporting ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin to help reduce the risk of joint problems.

Q: How often should I feed my senior large breed dog?

A: How often you feed your senior large breed dog will depend on the specific food you are using. Always follow the recommendations on the packaging. In general, senior dogs should be fed twice a day – once in the morning and once at night.

Q: My senior large breed dog is starting to gain weight. What can I do?

A: If your senior large breed dog is gaining weight, it is important to adjust their diet accordingly. You may need to feed them a lower calorie food or reduce the amount of food you are giving them at each meal. You should also make sure they are getting plenty of exercise. If you are unsure about how to make these changes, talk to your veterinarian.

Q: My senior large breed dog has joint pain. What can I do?

A: If your senior large breed dog is experiencing joint pain, there are a few things you can do to help them feel better. First, make sure they are on a diet that is designed for older dogs and contains ingredients that support joint health. You can also give them supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Finally, make sure they are getting plenty of exercise to keep their joints healthy and strong.

 

Our Top 3 Picks

Best Senior Dog Food For Large Breed Dogs

If you want a quick recommendation on the best senior dog food large breed, check out the following:

Best Large Breed Senior Dog Food

Key Ingredients:

Chicken, Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Corn Gluten Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, Oat Meal, Vegetable Oil, Dried Egg Product, Pea Fiber, Barley, Fish Oil, Natural Flavor, Fish Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Salt, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • PURINA Pro Plan Large Breed Adult 7+ Dog Food
  • Chicken and Rice Formula Recipe
  • High Quality Protein with chicken as the first ingredient for support of lean muscle.
  • Glucosamine sources with Omega3 to focus on this joint health and mobility
  • Protein at 29% and Fat at 14% composition for lean muscles
  • Botanical oils to promote alertness and mental sharpness
  • Antioxidants including Vitamin E and C
  • 30 lb bag.

2. IAMS Proactive, Large Breed Mature Adult Dog Food

Key Ingredients:

Chicken, Ground Whole Grain Barley, Ground Whole Grain Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Ground Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Meal, Dried Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Brewers Dried Yeast, Dried Egg Product, Potassium Chloride, Flaxseed, Caramel Color, Salt, Carrots, Choline Chloride, Tomatoes, Green Peas, Spinach, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • IAMS Proactive, Large Breed Mature Adult Dog Food
  • Protein from chicken and eggs for strong and firm muscles.
  • Wholesome grains providing essential nutrients & carbohydrates for energy
  • Vitamin E and beta-carotene for strong immune system
  • Calcium supporting healthy teeth and gums
  • Probiotics for improved digestion
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate support healthy bones and joints.
  • Omega-6 fatty acids providing a healthly skin and coat.
  • 30 lb bag.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Whole Grain Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Split Peas, Rice Bran, Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Flaxseed, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, Salt, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • NUTRO Natural Choice Large Breed Senior Dog 6+ Food.
  • Protein from chicken to promote lean muscle and healthy body weight.
  • DHA included to help maintain your dog’s cognitive health
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate support hip and joint health
  • Antioxidants to support your senior dog’ immune system.
  • Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids providing a healthy skin and coat for your dog.
  • Package size is 30 lb.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Whole Grain Wheat, Whole Grain Corn, Whole Grain Sorghum, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Oats, Pork Fat, Dried Beet Pulp, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Liver Flavor, Soybean Oil, Lactic Acid, Pork Flavor, Flaxseed, Beta-Carotene, Apples, Broccoli, Carrots, Cranberries, Green Peas Iodized Salt, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • HILL’S SCIENCE Diet, Large Breed Adult 6+ Dog Food
  • Good Proteins from real chicken without chicken by-product.
  • Minerals for healthy heart and kidney health
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate is 800 mg/kg to build healthly joints
  • Omege-6 fatty acids and Vitamin E to nourish skin and support a shiny coat
  • Natural ingredients and fibers to give your dog a great and satisfied meal
  • Antioxidants, Vitamin C and Vitamin E included for strong immune system
  • Balanced minerals for strong bones
  • Package size is 33 lb.

Key Ingredients:

Deboned Chicken, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Chicken Meal, Pea Fiber, Pea Starch, Peas, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Pea Protein, Fish Oil, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Salt, Taurine,  Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • BLUE BUFFALO Life Protection, Dog Food for Large Breed Senior Dog
  • Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe
  • High Quality Protein from deboned chicken help build and maintain healthy and lean muscles.
  • Wholesome grains, vegetables and fruits
  • Glucosamine and chondroitin promote joint health and mobility.
  • Proteins, carbohydrates maintain energy
  • LifeSource Bits mix of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for overall and immune system health.
  • Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids for healthy dog’s skin and coat.
  • No corn, wheat or soy.
  • Packaging sizes which includes 30lb.

6. EUKANUBA, Senior Large Breed Dog Food

Key Ingredients:

Chicken, Wheat, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn, Chicken Fat, Ground Grain Sorghum, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract, Vegetable Oil, Egg Product, Salt, Fish Oil, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • EUKANUBA Senior Large Breed Dog Food.
  • Protein from chicken for muscle maintenance
  • Optimal Levels of Fats and Carbohydrates – to fuel your senior dog’s daily activities.
  • Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulfate for joint health.
  • DHA and antioxidants support brain health function
  • Immune system support with Vitamin E
  • Healthy Gums with Eukanuba DentaDefense which also clean teeth and reduce tartar buildup
  • 30 lb bag.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice, Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Chicken Fat, Corn, Brown Rice, Natural Flavors, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Wheat Gluten, Fish Oil, Pea Fiber, Dried Tomato Pomace, Vegetable Oil, Sodium Silico Aluminate, Potassium Chloride, Psyllium Seed Husk, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Taurine, Chondroitin Sulfate, Rosemary Extract, Salt, Niacin, Others, Vitamins, Minerals.

Highlights:

  • Royal Canin Large Aging 8+ Dry Dog Food,
  • Highly Digestible Proteins to support good disgestion
  • Fiber Content to help facilitate intestinal transit.
  • EPH, DHA and Antioxidants to support cellular health
  • Nutrient to help support joint health.
  • 30 lb bag.

Conclusion

It is important for you to find the right food for your dog. Deciding on what to feed your senior dog large breed need not be confusing as we have shared some generally accepted key ingredients that should be present that will keep your dog healthy. Knowing this now, you will be in a better position to make the right decision.

The large breed senior dog food recommended here are high quality choices that will benefit your mature large breed dog. As such, do consider making a selection from any of these products.  Choosing one of these dog food brands will help your dog live healthier and longer.

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