Which senior dog food should you choose? The complete guide
Senior dog food comes down to three criteria: high-quality protein to preserve muscle mass, moderate calorie content to prevent weight gain, and controlled phosphorus levels to go easy on the kidneys. In practice, a medium-sized dog switches to a senior formula around age 7, and large breeds earlier. Find all our comparisons in the dog food section.
At what age should a dog switch to senior food?
There is no single cut-off date: a Cavalier King Charles is considered senior around 8 to 9 years old, a Great Dane as early as 5 to 6. The real signal is not just age but everyday behaviour: a dog that exercises less, gains weight on the same ration or struggles to get up in the morning. If in doubt, a check-up at the vet will confirm the right time to switch and rule out an underlying health problem.
What changes in the recipe?
A good senior formula is not simply a light kibble. It keeps digestible animal protein (chicken, fish) at the top of the ingredient list, because an older dog loses muscle without it. It does, however, reduce calorie density, adjust phosphorus, and often adds joint-support compounds (glucosamine, chondroitin) plus omega-3s for joint comfort. The kibble itself is sometimes softer or smaller, a real plus for worn teeth.
Which buying criteria should you check before ordering?
- Protein source: a clearly named meat or fish as the first ingredient.
- Calorie density: around 340 to 370 kcal/100 g for a less active senior.
- Joint support: omega-3s (EPA/DHA), glucosamine, chondroitin.
- Palatability: older dogs often become picky; favour brands that offer samples.
- Kibble size: suited to a weaker jaw.
How much should you budget for senior food?
Expect 15 to 35 € for a 3 kg bag in the mid-range, and 55 to 100 € for a 10 to 12 kg bag in the premium range. An older dog's comfort also depends on the right gear: an orthopedic dog bed and an access ramp usefully round out a good diet. For all our guides, head to the dog hub.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a gradual transition to senior food?
Yes, as with any diet change: mix the old and new kibble progressively over 7 to 10 days to avoid digestive upsets.
My senior dog turns his nose up at his kibble, what should I do?
Gently warm a moistened portion or add a little wet food. A lasting loss of appetite warrants a vet visit, as it may hide a dental or kidney problem.
Is senior food suitable for a neutered dog?
Often yes, since it is lower in calories, but check the recommended ration: a neutered dog's energy needs drop by roughly a fifth.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Dogs universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.