Most dogs are considered senior around 7 years old, but this varies by breed. Large breeds age faster and may be considered senior at 5-6 years, while small breeds can remain active well into their teens.
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Caring for Your Senior Dog
SENIOR DOG 101:
age, signs & what to expect
Common Health Issues in Senior Dogs
Caring for a senior dog means understanding the health challenges that come with aging. Here are some common health issues in senior dogs and how you can support them.
Arthritis & Joint Pain
Stiffness and slow movement can signal joint issues; supplements and gentle exercise help.
Dental Problems
Gum disease and decay cause pain; regular cleaning prevents infections.
Heart & Kidney Issues
Coughing, lethargy, and thirst changes need early vet attention.
Cancer Risks
Watch for lumps, weight loss, or appetite changes; early detection is key.
Obesity & Weight Loss
Extra weight strains joints, while sudden loss signals illness.
Common Signs of Aging in Senior Dogs
Essential Nutrients for Senior Dogs
Senior dogs need extra support to stay active. A diet packed with quality protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, and joint-friendly nutrients preserves muscle, brain function, and overall vitality. Smart nutrition makes all the difference.
Protein
Boosts muscle, fuels organ function, and keeps aging weakness at bay.
Healthy Fats
Eases inflammation, supports joint health, and sharpens brain function.
Fiber
Promotes smooth digestion and balanced blood sugar levels.
Glucosamine
Fortifies cartilage, eases joint pain, and keeps mobility in check.
Antioxidants & Vitamins
Strengthens immunity, fights cell damage, and supports cognitive health.
Low-Impact Exercise Ideas
Activity
Benefits
Best for Senior Dogs with:
Short Walks
Keeps joints moving & maintains weight
Mild arthritis, obesity
Swimming
Low-impact exercise for muscles
Joint pain, hip dysplasia
Gentle Fetch with Soft Toys
Light activity for engagement
Older dogs with weaker teeth
Joint Massage
Improves circulation and reduces stiffness
Arthritis, mobility issues
Preventive Health for senior Dogs:
Essential Tips
Choosing the Right Food for a Senior Dog
Enhance your dog's well-being with our premium products designed for senior dogs.
Outback Kangaroo
Feast
Viva La Venison
Wild Islands
Pacific Catch
Addiction Wild Islands
Forest Meat
Crude Protein
28% min
24% min
32% min
32% min
Kibble Type
Dry Kibble
(Available as soft kibble)
Dry Kibble
Dry Kibble
Dry Kibble
Added Functional Ingredients
Omega-3, Taurine
Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Omega-3, Taurine
Omega-3 & 6, Taurine
Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Omega-3 & 6, Taurine
Grain-Free
Yes
Joint Support
Yes
(Omega-3 for mobility)
Yes
(Glucosamine & Chondroitin)
Yes
(Omega-3s for joint health)
Yes
(Glucosamine & Chondroitin)
Heart Health Support
Yes (Taurine)
Cognitive Support
Yes (Omega-3s)
Yes (DHA & Omega-3s for brain function)
Yes (Omega-3s)
Targeted for Life Stages
All Life Stages
- COMPLETE & BALANCED
- SENSITIVE CARE
- WILD ISLANDS
- AIR DRIED DOG FOOD
Salmon Bleu Dog
*Our products offer complete nutrition for senior dogs, packed with premium NZ protein
Wild Kangaroo and Apples
Viva La Venison Dog
Zen Vegetarian
*Our products offer complete nutrition for senior dogs, packed with premium NZ protein
Wild Islands Pacific Catch
Wild Islands Island Birds
Wild Islands Forest Meat
Wild Islands Highland Meat
*Our products offer complete nutrition for senior dogs, packed with premium NZ protein
Steakhouse Beef and Zucchini Entrée
Homestyle Venison and Cranberry Dinner
Herbed Lamb and Potatoes
Entrée
Country Chicken and
Apricot Dinner
Outback Kangaroo Feast
Perfect Summer Brushtail
*Our products offer complete nutrition for senior dogs, packed with premium NZ protein
Caring for Senior Dogs:
Your Top Questions Answered
At what age is my dog considered a senior?
What is the best diet for a senior dog?
A senior dog’s diet should include high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass, healthy fats for joint and brain health, and fiber for digestion. Look for foods with glucosamine for joint support and antioxidants to slow aging.
How often should I take my senior dog to the vet?
Senior dogs should have biannual vet check-ups (every 6 months) to catch early signs of health issues like arthritis, kidney disease, and heart problems. Regular bloodwork and dental exams are also important.
How do I know if my senior dog is in pain?
Signs of pain in older dogs include slower movement, difficulty standing, limping, reluctance to jump, excessive panting, and changes in behavior such as irritability or withdrawal. If you notice these, consult your vet.
How can I support my senior dog's joint health?
Choose foods rich in glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids to support mobility and reduce inflammation. Gentle exercise, orthopedic beds, and weight management can also help prevent joint strain.
understanding senior Dogs
Senior Dog Nutrition 101: What to Feed and What to Avoid
The 7 Most Overlooked Signs of Aging in Senior Dogs
