Senior working dogs benefit from special diets to support their aging bodies and ensure they have the energy for work and recovery.

Ideally working dog diets should contain 25-30% carbohydrates, 25-35% fat and 30-35% protein. Dogs will metabolise carbohydrates as their initial energy source, then move to fat as demand continues or increases. Once these available energy sources have been used up, protein is utilised from muscle and other cells.

Dogs that are consistently fed high-fat diets will condition their metabolism to preferentially burn fat, resulting in a long-duration energy release which is ideal for dogs working hard for long periods. As dogs age, this metabolism may change so that fat is no longer burnt but stored. This can result in weight gain which, at excessive levels, is detrimental to joints and general health.

Therefore, a senior dog’s calorie levels need to be high enough to maintain the energy levels required for their workload, while not too high that they gain weight.

Easily digestible, high-quality proteins are required for muscle repair/maintenance and to ensure red blood cell production isn’t compromised. This is especially important for dogs with a consistent high work rate to prevent muscle wasting and anaemia. 

Arthritis is inevitable with age, but supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3 fatty acids can help slow the progression of disease and reduce inflammation. Fatty acids will also improve coat condition and skin health in dogs. Most premium, commercially-produced senior dog diets have these added to them. Alternatively, you can add supplements to food.

Adding soluble fibre as well can support a healthy gut biome and help keep bowel motions regular. 

Where possible, it is preferable to feed smaller portions more frequently (e.g. twice daily) to improve digestion, prevent overloading of the GI tract and maintain consistent blood glucose levels throughout the day.   

Drinking water little and often is also preferrable to letting dogs “tank up” and then run on a full stomach. In dogs with high water requirements, adding water to biscuits or feeding a portion of their diet as wet food may be helpful. Poor hydration can result in compaction of faeces in the large intestine and difficulty in passing them.

If you would like further guidance about feeding your senior working dog, including diet options, speak to our knowledgeable team.