Will I need to Change my Dog's Diet as he Ages?

Will I need to Change my Dog's Diet as he Ages?
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As your pet ages, you need to be aware of the different nutritional requirements he might develop. When a dog moves into his senior years, his digestive system changes, and he may require more protein and vitamins but fewer calories. Most major pet food makers have senior diet formulas. But how do you know when your dog has reached the point where he needs one?

The age at which a dog becomes a geriatric eater depends on his breed. Small dogs tend to live longer, so a six-year-old Jack Russell Terrier would be considered a pre-teen dog, while a Great Dane would be considered a senior. So consult your veterinarian about your dog’s nutritional requirements.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series