Caissie Canine Instruction: How to Meet your Dog’s Nutritional Needs as they Age.

We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful Mini Golden-Doodle named Dobby.

Dobby is just over a year. He’s a loving, energetic, and cuddly pup who’s been a wonderful addition to our family. Dobby is now preparing for his next big adventure, becoming a big brother, as we get ready to welcome a new baby in August.

He loves being outdoors and is always excited to socialize with both humans and other dogs. As a pack, we’re continuing to work on his self-regulation and eagerness to greet everyone and everything in sight.

Dobby enjoys visiting family and takes full advantage of any opportunity to play, whether it’s running around, playing fetch, or practicing basic training.

He’s been an amazing dog so far, and we’re excited to see him continue to grow and develop alongside our growing family.

Welcome to Doggie Dialogue

To help meet your K9’s nutritional needs as they age, it is recommended that we focus on a diet formulated for older/senior dogs. This typically includes food that is lower in calories to help prevent weight gain.

Many senior-specific food will offer more protein in the food to maintain your K9’s muscle mass. It is recommended to add a supplement for joint support and antioxidants.

It is also recommended to consider easy digestible ingredients for easier consumption. Please consult your vet if your K9 needs a tailored diet based on their needs and health condition.

The added supplements that most vets will recommend is glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support and antioxidant to help combat cell damage.

Consider healthy snacks for your K9 such as fruits and vegetables, as they are low in calories.

Signs of nutritional deficiencies may show up in your K9, as muscle weakness, dull coat, or skin problems.

Remember as your K9 ages, their activity-levels may decrease. Other K9’s may develop minor dental issues; therefore, your vet may recommend switching to wet food or easier-to-chew kibble formulas.