As our pet dogs get older, their nutritional and physical needs change. Senior dogs have different requirements for their diet, exercise and overall health. One question that can arise is whether it’s perfectly safe to give normal treats to senior dogs. In almost all cases, giving normal treats to senior dogs is perfectly okay. However, sometimes it may not be the best thing for your elderly pet, especially if your pet has a medical condition, dietary requirements, or chewing difficulties. In this blog post, we will discuss various considerations that you may want to consider when selecting treats for your senior dog.
Nutritional considerations
The metabolism and activity level of your pet dog decrease with age. Therefore, when selecting treats for your senior dog, it’s important to choose lower-calorie and lower-fat treats. This will help them maintain their weight and prevent them from becoming overweight or obese, which can increase their risk for a variety of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems.
In addition to lower calorie and lower fat treats, look for treats with nutritional benefits like protein, vitamins, and minerals. These treats can help support your senior dog’s overall health and provide them with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active. Some treats may also contain glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support joint health in senior pets. Joint problems are common in elderly dogs, so these treats can help keep their joints healthy and pain-free.
Dental considerations
Senior dogs are also far more prone to dental issues and chewing difficulties than adult pets. They may have missing teeth, gum disease, or other dental problems. One of the most common dental issues in senior dogs is periodontal disease. This is typically caused by a buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums, which can lead to inflammation, infection and tooth loss. Periodontal disease can also affect your dog’s overall health if left unchecked, as the condition can cause health issues in other parts of the body.
When selecting treats for your senior dog, avoid giving hard-to-chew treats, choose soft or small treats that are easy to eat instead. You can also choose to give dental chews or treats, which are designed to help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath. They work by scraping away plaque and tartar as your dog chews, helping to prevent dental issues and improve their overall oral health.
Health considerations
It’s important to consider any health conditions your senior dog may have when selecting treats, as some dog treats can contain ingredients that may not be appropriate for certain medical conditions. For example, if your dog has diabetes, you may need to avoid treats that are high in sugar. Instead, opt for treats that are high in fibre and low in sugar and carbohydrates. If you’re unsure, talk to your veterinarian for recommendations on the best treats for your senior dog’s specific health needs.
Treat options for senior dogs
When choosing treats for senior pets, it’s important to choose treats that are not only delicious but also healthy and appropriate for their age and health needs. Soft treats are often suitable for senior dogs as they are easy to chew and gentle on your dog’s teeth and gums, which is especially important if they have dental issues or chewing difficulties. They also come in a variety of flavours and can be a great way to reward your senior dog for good behaviour or to give them a little extra love.
You can also give treats that are specifically formulated for senior dogs. These treats often contain specific ingredients that are good for senior dogs’ health and well-being, such as glucosamine for joint health, antioxidants for immune support, and fibre for digestive health. If your pet dog has specific health needs, such as a sensitive stomach or food allergies, there are also treats available that cater to these needs, such as grain-free and gluten-free treats. Homemade treats can also be a great option, as you can select the ingredients to ensure that they are healthy and nutritious.
It’s important to keep in mind that treats should be given in moderation, even to senior dogs. Too many treats can lead to weight gain and health issues, so be sure to only give your senior dog treats as part of a balanced diet. Also, when you buy ready-made treats, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredient list. Avoid getting treats that contain artificial preservatives; instead, look for treats that are made using high-quality, natural ingredients.
Treating your senior dog is a great way to show them love and appreciation. However, it’s important to choose treats that are age appropriate and will help support your senior dog’s health and well-being. This can be especially important if your senior dog has nutritional, dental and health needs. Additionally, as your dog ages, it also becomes crucial to consider getting pet insurance. Senior dogs are more prone to long-term medical conditions, which can lead to expensive veterinary bills. Getting dog insurance can help ease the financial burden of unexpected medical expenses, ensuring that your senior dog can receive the care they need without putting a strain on your budget. With the right treats and pet insurance, your senior dog can enjoy many happy and healthy years by your side.
