Older Dogs Need Fewer Calories A dog's metabolism slows with age. This means the body burns fewer calories and needs less food to function. Many senior dogs are also less energetic, so they burn even fewer calories.
Does senior dog food have more or less calories?
Most senior dog diets are formulated with appropriate nutrient limits and are less calorie-dense (fewer calories per cup/can) than rations for puppies and young adults; however, there are currently no established specific nutrient requirements.
How many calories should a senior dog eat?
Most senior dogs who are fairly healthy (and not overweight) just need a diet that has moderate amounts of protein and fats, and is easy to digest. You're aiming for protein levels of somewhere between 28% and 30%, and fat between 10% and 14%. In terms of calories, approximately 350 calories per cup is about right.
What do older dogs need more of in their diet?
“Most dogs like carrots and apple slices.” But avoid grapes and raisins because they're harmful to dogs. Dogs may also need more water as they age. “The body's ability to maintain water balance is decreased as they get older,” he says. It's important to make sure that senior dogs have plenty of water.
Do older dogs need to be fed more often?
Feed little and often Your dog will probably be used to being fed twice a day, although as they reach their senior years, they may prefer smaller portions more often.
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