Good Soft Dog Food For Older Dogs

Senior dogs have unique dietary needs, just like humans. Depending on the size and breed of the dog, it may be considered “senior” after the age of five or seven. Each dog has unique nutritional needs according to its age, weight, activity level, and overall health, but generally, senior dog foods offer the nutrition aging dogs need to support their changing bodies and minds.

It can be difficult to choose the right senior dog food for your pet, however. Wet and canned food offers benefits over dry kibble, such as added moisture and a soft texture that’s easier for older dogs to eat comfortably.

We’ve compiled the 10 best canned and wet dog food for senior dogs, based on reviews from real pet owners.

How to switch to a senior food… without making your dog sick

In this video

Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help lower your dog’s risk of getting sick when you switch your senior to a new food.

For more top picks that may be helpful to your senior dog… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.

Our Criteria and Experience: Why We Chose the Best

We at A-Z-Animals want your senior dogs to age gracefully. That’s why we investigated the best wet dog foods on the market to help them only deal with issues that arise in old age like arthritis, sensitive stomachs, weight management, and skin issues. We also want them to enjoy their mealtimes. There’s no denying that dogs both young and old love wet dog food. We researched the foods that not only taste good, but will benefit your senior dog in multiple ways. The foods we have recommended are vet-approved, formulated with vitamins, minerals, and healthy ingredients that target the different areas we’ve discussed. We included a couple of options by Royal Canin which do require a prescription, but the others provide many benefits essential to senior dogs to help them thrive. Read on to discover our top recommendations for the best wet dog foods for senior dogs.

IAMS ProActive Health Senior Canned Dog Food – Best Value

Main ingredients: Water, meat byproducts, chicken, chicken byproducts, brewers rice, wheat flour, wheat gluten, flax seed
Protein content: 7.0%
Fat content: 3.0%
Calories: 262 kcal/can

IAMS ProActive Health Senior Canned Dog Food is the best canned and wet dog food for senior dogs for the money. The pate texture has slow-cooked chicken and rice that’s appetizing to your dog, as well as omega fatty acids to promote a healthy coat and skin. Vitamins and minerals are added for balanced nutrition that supports your aging pet’s needs.

This food is designed for adult dogs seven years and older. It also has wholesome grains for healthy energy to keep your dog going into its golden years. Most reviewers saw good results with this food, but some mentioned that the food isn’t calorie- dense, and you have to feed more of it. Others said their dogs didn’t like it. Pros

  • Pate texture
  • Meat as first ingredients
  • Added vitamins and minerals
  • Cons

    FAQ

    Should older dogs eat soft food?

    As your dog gets older, their teeth may become more sensitive, which can make chewing kibble more difficult and even uncomfortable. Switching to a soft food can help to alleviate your pet’s oral discomfort when eating.

    What is the healthiest wet food for senior dogs?

    The 10 Best Canned and Wet Dog Foods for Senior Dogs
    • Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Dog Food – Best Overall. …
    • IAMS ProActive Health Senior Canned Dog Food – Best Value. …
    • Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ Wet Dog Food. …
    • Royal Canin Mature Adult in Gel Canned Dog Food. …
    • Purina ONE SmartBlend Adult Dog Food – Vet’s Choice.

    What wet dog food do vets recommend for senior dogs?

    Wet food contains more moisture, so it helps older dogs stay hydrated. It contains more Omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for older dogs, than kibble because it can be destroyed as the kibble is being processed.

    Is Wet food better for senior dogs?

    Wet food contains more moisture, so it helps older dogs stay hydrated. It contains more Omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for older dogs, than kibble because it can be destroyed as the kibble is being processed.