Feed their needs. Not just their age.

Start with the individual.

An older dog does not automatically need a diet change simply because of a birthday. Discuss whether a different food is appropriate for their health, condition and activity.

This guide does not use one age to classify every dog as senior. It is a starting point for a conversation with your vet, not a product match.

Watch muscle as well as weight.

Body weight alone does not tell the whole story. A dog may carry extra body fat while also losing muscle.

Regular weighing and veterinary checks of body and muscle condition can provide different, useful information. Unintended changes should be assessed rather than treated as an inevitable part of ageing.

Review portions as needs change.

A less active dog may need fewer calories, but an active older dog does not automatically need less food. Adjust the discussion around observed weight and body condition, not a blanket reduction.

Measure what is being fed, include treats and extras in the record, and keep fresh drinking water available.

Avoid one-rule protein advice.

There is no universal high-protein or low-protein answer for every older dog. Muscle loss and some medical conditions can call for different nutritional approaches.

Ask your vet to assess the whole picture before changing protein intake or choosing a diet on that basis.

Put health concerns first.

Conditions such as kidney disease or diabetes may require individual dietary management. Unexplained weight or muscle changes deserve veterinary attention.

If your dog has a prescribed diet, speak to the prescribing vet before changing it or adding foods and supplements.

Take a simple feeding record.

Useful notes can make a veterinary review more specific.

• Food name, amount actually eaten and recent changes.
• Treats, table foods and supplements as well as meals.
• Changes in appetite, activity, body weight or muscle.
• Any medicines or prescribed diet already in use.