If your dog is 12 or older, chances are life looks a little different than it used to. Walks are slower. Naps are longer. That once-bouncy puppy might groan a bit when getting up or pause before climbing the stairs.

And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself standing in the kitchen, scoop in hand, wondering:

When dogs reach their senior years, food stops being just food. It becomes comfort. Support. One of the simplest ways we can care for them as their bodies change.

How Much Should a Senior Dog Eat?

One of the first things that changes with age is activity level. Senior dogs usually burn fewer calories, but they still need enough protein to keep their muscles from wasting away.

A loose guideline many vets share is feeding around 2–2.5% of your dog’s ideal body weight per day, split into two or even three smaller meals. Smaller meals are often easier on aging digestion and can help keep blood sugar steady.

For example, a 20-pound senior dog might do well on about 6 to 8 ounces of food a day, but that’s just a starting point. The best clues are your dog’s body and behavior. Are they maintaining muscle? Do they seem hungry all the time, or sluggish after meals?

Your vet can help fine-tune portions, especially if arthritis, thyroid issues, or kidney concerns are in the picture.

Choosing Food That Actually Works for Older Dogs

Senior dog food isn’t about fancy labels. It’s about ingredients that do real work.

In older dogs, protein matters more than many people realize. The right kind helps preserve muscle, supports the immune system, and keeps them feeling stronger. Look for foods where real meat is the first ingredient — chicken, turkey, salmon, or lamb.

At the same time, calories should be a bit lower than adult formulas, since extra weight is harder on aging joints. Added fiber from things like pumpkin or sweet potato can also help with digestion, which often slows down with age.

Supporting Stiff Joints and Slower Mornings

If your senior dog stretches longer than they used to or hesitates before jumping onto the couch, you’re not imagining it.

Joint supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can help protect cartilage, while omega-3s from fish oil may reduce inflammation. These don’t turn back the clock, but over time they often make movement a little more comfortable — and sometimes that’s everything.

Always check with your vet before adding supplements, especially if your dog is on medication.

When Kidneys Start Needing Extra Care

Kidney issues are common in older dogs, and diet plays a big role in managing them.

If your vet has mentioned kidney health, you may be advised to choose foods that are lower in phosphorus and made with high-quality, easily digestible protein. Moisture becomes especially important here, too.

Many senior dogs do better with wet food or gently cooked meals because they help keep hydration up — something older dogs don’t always manage well on their own.

Hydration Matters More Than You Think

Some senior dogs just… forget to drink.

Adding water or low-sodium broth to meals is an easy way to help. You can also place water bowls in spots where your dog spends most of their time (so they don’t have to walk as far). Small changes like this can make a big difference over the long run.

Keeping meals on a regular schedule also helps. Routines become comforting as dogs age, and predictable mealtimes can reduce anxiety while supporting digestion.

Trust What You Know About Your Dog

No feeding guide can replace the bond you have with your dog. You know when something feels off. You know when they’re thriving.

Take changes slowly. Watch their energy, appetite, and weight. Work with your veterinarian when something doesn’t seem right.

After all these years of loyalty, adjusting how we feed them is just another way of saying, “I’m still here. I’ve got you.”

And honestly? That love matters just as much as what’s in the bowl. 🐾