The senior feeding guide for 7+: calorie curves, muscle-sparing protein, joint and cognitive nutrients, and the screening calendar that catches disease while diet still matters.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Calories | 10–20% below adult maintenance, adjusted by activity |
| Protein | 24%+ — muscle sparing is the senior priority |
| Nutrients that matter | EPA/DHA, glucosamine, MCTs, controlled phosphorus |
| Screening | Annual bloodwork (SDMA, creatinine) from 7 years |
| Weight watch | Obesity accelerates arthritis; thinness flags disease |
The philosophy shift
Senior feeding reverses adult priorities: protein goes up (aging guts absorb less), calories go down (activity slows), and screening becomes the primary intervention — bloodwork catches kidney disease two stages before symptoms (our transition file). The old “senior = less protein” advice is retired; it accelerated the frailty it claimed to prevent.
The formula checklist
Pick senior formulas with: calorie density 10–15% lower, guaranteed EPA/DHA, glucosamine at real doses, and moderate phosphorus (the CKD hedge — our kidney file). Cognitive support (MCTs) shows promise in canine dementia. The senior FAQ and tools handle the arithmetic.
FAQ
What should I feed my 8-year-old Lab?
A senior formula or well-portioned adult with 24%+ protein, EPA/DHA, and annual bloodwork. Weight stays lean — arthritis feeds on pounds.
Is senior dog food worth the money?
When it adjusts calories, omega-3s, and joint nutrients honestly — yes. Label-reading matters more than the “senior” badge.
Related reading: Transition file · Senior FAQ · Health library · Tools