by Raven Lebeau

Created on: November 05, 2008

Elderly dogs, like elderly people, often have difficulty digesting their food. Dogs also tend to suffer from dental problems in their later years, making it difficult for them to chew the typical hard dog food pellets. Kidney function often declines, causing problems with digestion of proteins. It only makes sense that your dog's diet should change as he ages.

Cooked rice makes an excellent staple for a canine senior diet. Using brown rice will help prevent constipation by adding needed fiber to your dog's diet. To ensure that your dog gets enough protein, top the serving of rice with a cooked egg or a small amount of lean, unsalted meat. This diet is kidney-friendly, easy to chew, and is a canine favorite that even finicky dogs will enjoy. The rice can be cooked in large batches and served out of a period of several days, minimizing the hassle cooking for your dog. Brown rice is also a healthy addition to a human diet, so preparing it in a regular basis is a good idea anyway. Why not make enough for your human family and your pet?

If you don't have time to cook rice, meat, and eggs for your dog, you can try one of the many commercial foods specially formulated for older dogs. These foods will usually be lower in fat and protein than the foods you would feed to a younger dog. Keeping the protein low prevents undue stress on kidneys, and lowering the fat content cuts back on calories. As dogs age, they become less active, expending less energy. This means that if they continue to eat the same diet they did when they were younger, they will gain weight. Weight gain in dogs, especially larger breeds, can lead to joint problems as well as cardiovascular health problems, making it even more difficult for the dog to exercise and sending his health on a downward spiral.

When choosing a commercial food for your older dog, be sure to read the label. The food should be no more than 14% by weight protein, as compared to 18% by weight for "regular" dog food. Also, unless your dog is underweight, the fat content should be no more than 10% by weight. The food should also have at least 3-5% fiber in order to prevent constipation. If your dog has trouble chewing, try a soft canned food instead of dry pellets. Experiment with different brands and types until you find a food your dog will eat which has the proper nutrition. If your dog has trouble eating enough to get all the nutrients he needs, consider a supplement formualted for older dogs.

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