As our beloved dogs age, they experience changes in their health, energy levels, and nutritional needs. While puppyhood was all about high-energy meals and growing muscles, senior dogs have a different set of requirements to maintain their health, vitality, and comfort. Adapting to these changes is key to supporting their well-being. Let’s understand what these changes are and how we can make our seniors more comfortable by adapting to their needs.
1. Slower Metabolism and Reduced Calorie Needs
Senior dogs typically have a slower metabolism, which means they need fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. As they become less active, the risk of obesity increases if their food is not tailored to their slower energy needs. Fidele+ Light and Senior Dog Food is formulated with lower calorie content to help manage their weight while ensuring they still get all the essential nutrients they need.
Tip: Transitioning to a senior-specific food, like Fidele+, can make it easier to control your dog's weight and reduce the risk of obesity-related health issues.
2. Digestive Sensitivities
Many older dogs develop more sensitive digestive systems and may struggle with high-fat or difficult-to-digest foods. Fidele+ Light and Senior Dog Food is designed with easily digestible ingredients like flaxseed, chicken protein, chicory root, coconut oil, dried turmeric, dried basil, etc to support smoother digestion and reduce issues like bloating or upset stomachs.
3. Joint Health and Mobility
As dogs age, joint health becomes a primary concern. Ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, often included in senior dog formulas like Fidele+, can support joint health, helping to alleviate some of the stiffness or discomfort senior dogs might feel as they age. You can also enquire about products like My Beau Bone and Joint supplements or Synoquin with your vets to see if your dog needs it.
4. Fidele+ Fresh Food – A Nutritious, Wholesome Option
Fidele+ Fresh Food can complement a senior dog's diet with fresh, wholesome ingredients that are gently cooked to retain maximum nutrition. Fresh food can be an excellent addition to your dog's meal plan, adding variety and a natural flavor boost that seniors with fading appetites will love.
If your senior dog needs extra encouragement to eat, mixing Fidele+ Fresh Food with Fidele+ Senior Dog Food can make meals more enticing. Plus, fresh food is often easier to digest, so it's a gentle option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
5. Dental Health and Softer Food Textures
Aging dogs may experience dental issues, making it difficult to chew hard kibble. In such cases, mixing in Fidele+ Fresh Food can provide a softer texture, or you can moisten Fidele+ kibble with water or low-sodium broth.
6. Maintaining Cognitive Function
Senior dogs can experience cognitive decline, which can impact their overall quality of life. Diets rich in antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids, and certain vitamins can help support brain health in older dogs. Fidele+ Senior Dog Food includes a blend of nutrients to support cognitive function, which may help keep your senior pet alert and active.
Caring for a senior dog requires a thoughtful approach to their diet to address their unique needs. With Fidele+ Senior Dog Food, you can ensure that your pet is receiving a balanced, nutrient-rich diet specifically formulated for their age, while Fidele+ Fresh Food adds variety and essential fresh nutrients. Together, these foods make a powerful duo for supporting your senior dog’s health and well-being.
So as your dog enters their golden years, remember that with the right nutrition, they can enjoy every moment of this special time. Happy eating, seniors!
