Older dogs may actually need more protein than their younger counterparts to maintain their muscles. With or without exercise, older dogs are more likely to lose their muscle mass - and therefore their protein reserves.

This could adversely impact their immune system and their body’s ability to respond to physical trauma, stress or infectious agents. Plus a loss of protein reserves also means a loss of vital amino acids that help repair tissue and facilitate energy metabolism.

As a rule of thumb, senior diets should have an increased protein-to-calorie ratio, with at least 25 percent of calories coming from protein. 

Because older pups tend to have lower activity levels, they also require less calories. For many pups, this means they’ll get weight more easily if they’re not put on a more suitable diet. There are also many other different needs that senior food can address, such as the level of protein and the type of supplemental vitamins and nutrients your pup may need. 

Of course, general speaking, it’s not always necessary. As long as your dog is consuming a healthy, high quality and well-balanced diet, there may not always be a need to switch to senior dog food. Just ensure that your pup’s diet contains a higher concentration of meat-based proteins, with moderate calories. 

Specially formulated diets like Wellness Core Grain Free Senior Dry Dog Food is a convenient way to ensure your pup is getting the right amount of nutrients they need.

In general, you should try and consult the recommended feeding amount on the label of your dog food. If they do not have a section for elderly dogs, take their recommended adult diet and reduce it. 

As a rule of thumb, adult dogs are fed approximately ⅓ cup for every 10 pounds. You can try reducing this to ¼ cups for your senior pup. Regardless, make sure to monitor your pup’s weight closely to ensure they are consuming enough food!