How do you choose the best fresh dog food for senior dogs? Consider this, the food must contain a balanced diet which includes all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions to meet each older dog’s individual needs.
Support your senior dogs’ immune, digestive, and nervous systems by giving them high-quality, nutritional food which in turn keeps them healthy and active. Fresh food sources are especially helpful when it comes to dog food and nutrition for senior dogs since they include vital vitamins and minerals that may promote older dogs’ general health and well-being.
High-quality protein sources, including lean meats or fish, should be a part of a senior dog’s balanced diet to assist muscle and tissue regeneration. The best fresh dog food for senior dogs should be rich in high fiber vegetables thus supporting a healthy digestive system. Additionally, this could ward off constipation, a typical problem in senior dogs. By the same token, essential vitamins and minerals including calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D help the preservation of strong bones and teeth. Finally, fish and fish oil supplements include omega-3 fatty acids, which can assist older dogs’ cognitive performance and decrease inflammation.
We’ve created a list of the best fresh dog foods for senior dogs sorted by company so you can choose the best option for your beloved pet. So, let’s dive in and explore the best fresh dog food for senior dogs and the unique features of each.
Best Fresh Dog Foods for Senior Dogs
Sundays for Dogs
Enhance mealtime for your pup with Sunday’s fresh dog food! Wholesome ingredients, exceptional quality, and endless moments of delight.
Transform mealtime with PetPlate’s tasty fresh dog food! Prepared with care, premium ingredients, and endless tail-wagging joy.
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Farmer’s Dog
Elevate your pup’s well-being with Farmer’s Dog fresh food! Fuel their health, inspire their happiness, and savor the goodness in every bite!
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NOM NOM
Elevate your dogs snacking experience with a symphony of flavors, from zesty to savory. Indulge in the art of snacking with Nom Nom—where taste meets delight!
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Fresh food offers several advantages that can keep your senior dog healthy and content during their golden years. Here are a few examples:
Nutritional Value
Protein: preserve muscle mass and promote general health, senior dogs need a high-quality protein diet. Chicken, turkey, salmon, and eggs are just a few of the fresh food sources of protein to consider.
Fiber: crucial for digestive health and can assist senior dogs with weight management. Fresh fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of fiber and provide a range of vitamins and minerals.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: these are especially beneficial for older dogs. They aid in maintaining the condition of their skin and coat and can ease discomfort in the joints. Fish oil pills and fresh fish are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Antioxidants: are like shields that protect your senior dog’s body from harmful particles called free radicals. A free radical is a tiny troublemaker that can cause damage to a dog’s cells and tissues. An outside factor such as pollution, radiation, or certain foods, can introduce free radicals into the system. When they build up it can lead to serious conditions like heart disease and cancer. Blueberries, spinach, and carrots are a few examples of fresh fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants providing benefits for your dog.
Vitamins and Minerals: vitamin and mineral content in fresh food sources are often higher than in processed or dry dog food.
Vitamin C : Including fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C in your senior dog’s diet can have numerous benefits, such as helping support healthy skin and hair, lower inflammation, and strengthen the immune system. Some common fruits and vegetables suitable for dogs are blueberries, strawberries, sweet potatoes, broccoli, kale, and spinach
Vitamin E: found in nuts, seeds, and oils, vitamin E is another antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and can support healthy skin and coat. almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds.
Calcium: found in dairy products, leafy greens, and bone broth, calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as muscle function and nerve transmission.
Phosphorus: found in meats, fish, and dairy products, phosphorus is another essential mineral that supports bone and teeth health, as well as kidney function and energy production.
Our Pick
Sundays for Dogs
Sundays for Dogs made the list of best fresh dog food for senior dogs because it believes that every dog deserves a Sunday meal every day of the week. Their mission is to provide fresh, wholesome food that nourishes dogs from the inside out. Sundays for Dogs creates balanced, nutritious recipes using only human-grade ingredients and natural supplements. Their meals are gently cooked to retain the essential nutrients and flavors that dogs love. With a focus on sustainable sourcing and environmentally friendly packaging, Sundays for Dogs is committed to making a positive impact on both dogs’ health and the planet.
Personalized Nutrition – With a focus on age, breed, weight, activity level, and specific dietary needs, Sundays for Dogs stands out for its expert formulation of custom meal plans.
High-Quality Ingredients – Meticulously selected proteins, vegetables, fruits, and supplements create a well-balanced diet, uniquely tailored to your dog’s requirements.
Cooking Process – Sundays for Dogs uses a slow cooking method that involves simmering the ingredients at low temperatures. This gentle cooking process helps retain the essential nutrients while enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. By cooking their meals with care and attention to detail, Sunday for Dogs ensures that your dog enjoys meals that are not only nutritious but also bursting with natural flavors.
Recipes – Explore premium recipe options with “USDA Beef, All Natural Turkey, and All Natural Chicken” for a wholesome and nutritious canine dining experience.
Improved Digestion
fresh food is easier for your dog to digest than processed or dry food. This means that they’ll be able to absorb more nutrients from their food, which can help support their overall health.
Fish: such as salmon or sardines, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve skin and coat health. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny, lustrous coat.
Lean meats: such as chicken, turkey, and beef, are excellent sources of protein and can be easier for your senior dog to digest than heavily processed or fatty meats. Additionally, lean meats are typically lower in calories and can help maintain a healthy weight in senior dogs.
Cooked vegetables: such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and green beans, are a great source of fiber and other essential nutrients. When cooked, vegetables become easier to digest and can help support your senior dog’s digestive health.
Fresh fruits: such as blueberries, bananas, and apples, are packed with vitamins and antioxidants that can help support your senior dog’s overall
Eggs: are an excellent source of high-quality protein and healthy fats, and can be easier for your senior dog to dig
Better Coat and Skin Health
The high-quality ingredients in fresh food can help improve your senior dog’s skin and coat health. This is because fresh food contains healthy fats and oils that nourish your dog’s skin and coat from the inside out.
Fish: such as salmon or sardines, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve skin and coat health. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny, lustrous coat.
Lean meats: such as chicken or turkey, are good sources of protein and essential amino acids that are necessary for maintaining healthy skin and coat.
Fresh fruits and vegetables: such as blueberries, sweet potatoes, and spinach, are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants that can help improve skin and coat health. Vitamin C, for example, is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity and health.
Eggs: are an excellent source of high-quality protein and healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve skin and coat health in senior dogs.
Our Pick
PetPlate
PetPlate is a great candidate for the best fresh dog food for senior dogs because it is dedicated to delivering high-quality, fresh food for dogs that pet parents can trust. Their mission is to provide dogs with the nutrition they need so they thrive. PetPlate’s meals are made using human-grade ingredients then cooked in small batches to ensure optimal quality and taste. With a range of recipes to choose from, PetPlate offers variety and customization to suit your dog’s preferences. By prioritizing transparency in ingredient sourcing and preparation, PetPlate gives pet parents peace of mind, knowing they’re feeding their dogs nutritious meals made with care.
Personalized Nutrition – PetPlate offers a personalized feeding plan that considers your dog’s age, weight, breed, activity level, and any dietary restrictions. PetPlate’s team of veterinary nutritionists designs each meal to ensure it meets your dog’s unique nutritional requirements. PetPlate uses high-quality proteins, vegetables, and grains in precise ratios to create a balanced diet.
High-Quality Ingredients – ingredients are sourced from trusted suppliers and focus on using premium, human-grade ingredients. PetPlate’s meals feature real meats, vegetables, and grains, providing a balanced diet for your dog. They avoid artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives, ensuring that your dog receives wholesome nutrition from their meals. By prioritizing high-quality ingredients, PetPlate guarantees that your dog’s meals are not only nutritious but also delicious.
Cooking Process – PetPlate utilizes a slow cooking method that involves simmering the ingredients at controlled temperatures. This gentle cooking process helps retain the essential nutrients and flavors which ensures that your dog receives a nutritionally balanced and tasty meal. By taking the time to cook their meals properly, PetPlate guarantees that your dog enjoys meals that are both healthy and delicious.
Recipes – Discover premium dog food blends featuring high-quality ingredients like chicken, sweet potatoes, apples, beef, liver, carrots, and salmon oil. From “Chompin Chicken” to “Lean & Mean Venison,” there’s a nutrient-rich option for your dog’s health and palate.
Reduced Risk of Allergies
Many senior dogs develop food allergies as they age, which can lead to symptoms like itching, rashes, and gastrointestinal upset. Fresh food can help reduce the risk of allergies because it doesn’t contain the additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors found in processed foods.
Improved Energy Levels
Fresh food is rich in nutrients that can help boost your senior dog’s energy levels, making them feel more alert and engaged throughout the day. This is especially important for older dogs who may be experiencing fatigue or lethargy.
Lean proteins such as chicken or turkey provide essential amino acids that support muscle function and repair.
Healthy fats such as those found in salmon or flaxseed oil are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help to reduce inflammation and support cognitive function.
Complex carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or brown rice provide a slow release of energy. Slow release of energy from complex carbohydrates can help to prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Our Pick
Farmer’s Dog
The Farmer’s Dog is on a mission to change the pet food industry for the better. Therefore, they believe that our four-legged friends deserve real food made from real ingredients. Indeed, with a focus on personalized nutrition, The Farmer’s Dog creates custom meal plans that cater to your dog’s unique needs and preferences. Additionally, their meals are cooked in small batches using only human-grade ingredients sourced from trusted farms. By delivering fresh, portioned meals straight to your door, The Farmer’s Dog ensures that your pup gets the quality nutrition they deserve, promoting overall health and well-being.
Personalized Nutrition – The Farmer’s Dog understands the importance of providing tailored nutrition to meet your dog’s unique requirements. They offer personalized meal plans based on a detailed profile you create for your pup. You’ll answer questions about your dog’s breed, age, weight, body condition, and any specific dietary restrictions or allergies. The Farmer’s Dog then creates a customized meal plan that considers your dog’s nutritional needs, taste preferences, and any health concerns. Each meal is portioned to provide the right balance of proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats. By offering personalized meal plans, The Farmer’s Dog ensures that your dog receives optimal nutrition and enjoys their food at every meal.
High-Quality Ingredients – The Farmer’s Dog sources their ingredients from trusted suppliers who provide human-grade, restaurant-quality ingredients. The meals are made with real, whole foods like farm-raised meats, fruits, vegetables, and grains. By using these premium ingredients, The Farmer’s Dog ensures that your dog receives the highest quality nutrition available. They prioritize freshness and quality, providing your dog with meals that are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.
Cooking Process – The Farmer’s Dog uses a slow cooking process that involves low-temperature simmering. This method helps retain the essential nutrients while bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. By cooking their meals with care and precision, The Farmer’s Dog ensures that your dog enjoys delicious meals that are nutritionally balanced.
Recipes – Elevate your pet’s well-being with Farmer’s Dog premium dog food recipes! From savory beef with sweet potatoes and lentils to wholesome turkey featuring chickpeas and veggies, their selection includes nutrient-rich options like chicken with Brussels sprouts and pork with sweet potatoes. Provide your furry friend with a blend of high-quality ingredients, ensuring a balanced and delicious meal for optimal health.
Weight Control
Fresh food is typically lower in calories and fat than processed or dry food, which can help reduce the risk of obesity in senior dogs. Obesity is a major health concern for older dogs because it can lead to a range of health problems like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.
lean proteins such as chicken, turkey and fish are excellent sources of protein that are low in fat
fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, blueberries, and carrots are low in calories but high in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
fresh food does not contain the fillers and preservatives found in many processed or dry foods, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues
Enhanced Immune Function
Fresh food contains a range of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, that can help boost your senior dog’s immune function. In short, a healthy immune system is essential for protecting your dog against illness and disease, and can help them live a longer, healthier life.
vitamin C, found in many fresh fruits and vegetables, helps to support immune function and reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, Vitamin E, found in nuts and seeds, is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
rich in phytonutrients, which are natural compounds in plant-based foods
Anthocyanins: For example, blueberries and raspberries. Anthocyanins have antioxidant properties which may also help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Carotenoids: Think carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin as options. Carotenoids are important for eye health and can help protect against age-related macular degeneration.
Flavonoids: For example, green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and berries. Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties which may also help protect against heart disease and cancer.
Lycopene: Common options include tomatoes, watermelon, and red peppers. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect against certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
Resveratrol: Grapes and peanuts have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties which may also help improve heart health.
** Before trying a fresh food diet for your dog, talk to your veterinarian!
Our Pick
NOM NOM
Nom Nom is a leading pet food delivery service, crafting fresh and customized meals for your dog. Founded with a commitment to providing nutritious, high-quality pet food made from human-grade ingredients, Nom Nom allows customers to tailor meals to their pets’ dietary needs. Emphasizing the use of real, whole ingredients and steering clear of common fillers and artificial additives, Nom Nom ensures optimal pet nutrition. Recipes, expertly formulated by veterinary nutritionists, meet the specific dietary requirements of pets. With a diverse range of recipes, including options for various dietary needs, Nom Nom stands at the forefront of delivering healthful and tailored pet nutrition.
Personalized Nutrition – Discover the ideal recipe for your dog by considering their dietary history, catering to sensitive tummies and discerning eaters. NOM NOMl expertly mix and pre-portion meals tailored to their specific health goals, right down to the calorie.
High-Quality Ingredients – NOM NOM prioritizes real, whole ingredients—premium meats and nutritious veggies—carefully chosen for freshness, nutrition, and taste. No fillers or artificial additives.
Cooking Process – Each meat and vegetable undergoes gentle individual cooking before being expertly blended in batches. This process seals in vital nutrients and enhances digestibility. No high-temperature vats or extrusion are used, ensuring the result is real food that looks and tastes exceptional.
Recipes – Nom Nom crafts an exceptional pet dining experience with premium recipes. The Beef Mash tantalizes with ground beef, russet potatoes, eggs, carrots, and peas, offering a savory blend rich in essential nutrients. The Chicken Cuisine presents a gourmet feast with succulent chicken, sweet potatoes, squash, and spinach, combining exquisite flavor with wellness. The Pork Potluck is a blend of ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale, and cremini mushrooms, supporting overall vitality. Lastly, the Turkey Fare delights with a blend of turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, and spinach, enhanced with vital vitamins and fish oil for healthy skin, coat, and cognitive function.
Old Dog Paws aims to chronicle our family's journey with empathy and wisdom. As passionate pet owners, we seek to learn from our beloved 17-year companion Tikki, who remains dearly missed.
We humbly share our story not as experts, but as fellow companions walking alongside our aging dogs. The lessons we have learned are offered in the hope that others may feel supported in times of difficulty, while also being directed to regular professional veterinary care.
As we walk this winding path of joy and sorrow, we aim to shine a light born of love. Our purpose is to enhance comfort and deepen the bonds between pets and their families during the rich, complex years of older age. With open hearts, we continue discovering each moment’s hidden blessings.
While we are passionate pet owners, we are not veterinarians. Use the information shared here as a helpful guide, and remember to maintain regular veterinary visits for the well-being of your furry friend. A happy and healthy pet starts with the expertise of a veterinary professional.
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