As our sweet Betty White has grown older, or as we say, seasoned, we have been more in tune with the availability of soft dog food for senior dogs. This is not only because she is older and we want her to have the best and eat with ease, but she also has stomach issues. We want the best for her health as well.
We have done all of the research, trials, and errors, and thought we would share what we have learned about aligning with the best soft dog food for senior dogs so you and your senior pup will be happy.
What should pet parents know about soft dog food for senior dogs?
As our furbabies gracefully age, their needs change, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they continue to enjoy a life filled with comfort and happiness. One vital aspect of their well-being is their diet.
If you have a senior dog, you’ve probably noticed a shift in their dietary preferences and digestive sensitivities. As we mentioned, Betty White has stomach issues so we have always been aware of that. We also know that as a golden girl, her teeth may not be as strong as they used to be. That is where soft food comes in.
We’re embarking on a culinary journey that’s as much about love as it is about nutrition. We’ll explore why homemade soft dog food is a fantastic choice for your senior canine friend, unveil some gentle-on-the-stomach recipes, and guide you through the process of making mealtime a delight for your aging companion.
DIY Soft Dog Food vs. Store Bought Dog Food
We are not too shy to admit that we are experts at taking care of senior pups. We wrote a post on how to make your senior dog more comfortable from our expertise in doing so. Not only did we own and operate an award-winning pet care business for over 15 years, but our own pets have lived to be seniors and they are our kids. We go above and beyond when it comes to their well-being.
There are plenty of great options when it comes to canned dog food brands that are soft. We will review those, but we also love the idea of making your own food. You have more control of what does in it, it’s healthier, and your pup will thank you.
Once we started making Betty White’s birthday cake, we never bought another one that we did not create ourselves.
Understanding the Needs of Senior Dogs
Senior dogs have different nutritional needs than younger pups. Senior dogs experience a slowing metabolism, making it crucial to adjust their diet to prevent weight gain.
Dental health has become a concern, with many seniors facing tooth and gum issues, making soft dog food a gentler option.
Digestive sensitivities can also arise, making easily digestible homemade soft dog food an excellent choice to reduce the risk of upset stomachs. Moreover, the higher moisture content in wet food aids in hydration, vital for senior dogs who might not drink enough water.
Consideration that is meant to support joint health is critical for older dogs. Muscle health is essential, as arthritis becomes more common. Homemade soft dog food allows for tailored ingredients that support these needs, ensuring your aging furry friend thrives in their golden years.
Benefits of Homemade Soft Dog Food
Opting for homemade soft dog food offers several key benefits for senior dogs. Firstly, it grants you complete control over the ingredients. As we already mentioned, you are ensuring you can choose high-quality, nutritious options and avoid additives found in commercial food.
The gentle texture of homemade soft food is easier on sensitive stomachs and dental issues common in seniors, promoting comfortable digestion.
Additionally, customization allows you to tailor recipes to address specific health needs, from joint support to allergies. Some dogs cannot have grain. Your older dog may be finicky with certain healthy options. This can be the case if he/she has never had turkey or wet dog food of any kind. Many dogs who have always had dry dog food REALLY love anything soft. It’s new, fun, and a real treat.
This approach also aids in portion control, preventing obesity in aging dogs. Beyond the health advantages, preparing a homemade formula of food fosters a deeper bond between you and your furry friend, making mealtime a cherished moment of love and care.
Betty White’s DIY Soft Dog Food Recipes
We thought we would share our very own recipe that we made for Betty White. It’s the Senior Paws’ Chicken ‘n’ Rice Rendezvous. We have to get fun and fancy with the name, you know!
Betty White’s Senior Chicken ‘n’ Rice Rendezvous
Ingredients
- 1 cup of organic boneless, skinless chicken breast (cooked and diced)
- 1 cup of cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup of cooked carrots (mashed or finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup of cooked peas (mashed or finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup of plain, unsalted organic chicken broth (low sodium)
Directions
- Cook the Chicken: Start by cooking the organic boneless, skinless chicken breast. You can boil, bake, or grill it, but avoid adding any seasoning, especially salt and spices. Cook until it’s fully cooked and there are no pink parts inside. Let it cool before dicing it into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Rice: While the chicken is cooling, cook white rice separately according to the package instructions. Make sure it’s fully cooked and fluffy.
- Cook the Vegetables: Steam or boil carrots and peas until they are soft and can be easily mashed or finely chopped. These vegetables add fiber and nutrients to the meal.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, cooked rice, mashed carrots, and peas. Mix them well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour 1/4 cup of plain, unsalted organic chicken broth (preferably low sodium) over the mixture. This adds moisture and flavor to the meal.
- Serve to Your Senior Dog: Allow the mixture to cool to a comfortable temperature for your dog, and then serve it as a delicious and nutritious meal. Ensure it’s not too hot to avoid any discomfort.
- Storage: Any leftover food can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat it before serving if needed.
Remember that this recipe is a general guideline, and you can adapt it to your senior dog’s specific needs and preferences. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure it aligns with your dog’s dietary requirements, especially if they have any health conditions or allergies.
Ingredients to Avoid
As we craft homemade soft dog food with love and care, it’s equally vital to be aware of ingredients that should be avoided, particularly when preparing meals for senior dogs.
First and foremost, steer clear of excessive fats and oils, as these can strain aging digestive systems and lead to pancreatitis.
Additionally, while a sprinkle of spices may enhance human meals, it’s best to exclude them from your dog’s dish, as they can irritate their stomach and intestines.
High-sodium ingredients, such as salty broths or processed meats, can pose a threat to their heart health and overall well-being. And, although it may seem harmless, avoid the use of artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs and should never find their way into your canine companion’s food bowl. Now that you know that, you will see it in a lot of human food. This is a BIG reason you should not feed your dog just anything.
Lastly, while some human foods are safe, like chicken and rice, there are others, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions, which are toxic to dogs and must be kept far away from any homemade dog food recipe. Always read the ingredients on purchased foods and ingredients for your homemade DIY soft dog food.
Transitioning to Homemade Soft Food
Transitioning your senior dog to homemade soft food is a process that requires patience and careful consideration. It’s vital to approach this transition gradually to avoid digestive upset. Trust us, slow and easy does it.
Start by mixing a small portion of the homemade soft food with their regular dog food. Over the course of a week or two, gradually increase the proportion of homemade food while decreasing the commercial food until they’re fully on the new diet.
Pay close attention to your dog’s response during this period. Monitor their stool consistency, energy levels, and overall well-being. Any signs of discomfort or digestive issues may indicate that the transition is happening too quickly, and adjustments should be made.
Remember, every dog is unique, and the pace of transition may vary, so it’s essential to tailor the process to your senior dog’s specific needs and preferences. Consulting with your veterinarian during this transition can provide valuable guidance and ensure a smooth switch to their new, homemade meals.
Consulting with a Vet
Consulting with your dog’s veterinarian is an invaluable step when considering a dietary change. Your vet knows your pet almost as well as you do. Vets are not only well-versed in canine nutrition but also familiar with your specific dog’s health history.
Moreover, vets can recommend appropriate supplements or dietary adjustments to ensure your dog receives a well-balanced and complete diet. He/she can give you guidance on the amount of protein your furbaby should have.
We use Danodan Hemp Flower Infusion for Pets to help Betty White with her arthritis symptoms.
Regular check-ups with your vet can provide peace of mind that your beloved senior canine companion is receiving the best possible care and nutrition tailored to their individual needs.
Store-bought foods
We have tried several options and can tell you some that have better quality than others. We are giving you our honest opinion and feedback, as always.
Blue Buffalo is a great brand of soft food. They have a senior formula that is gentle. Betty White loved it but we found that making our own soft food was something we wanted to do for her.
Many top-quality dog foods can be purchased from Chewy if you cannot find them in your store.
Note- we are not veterinarians. While we have an abundance of experience with this topic, please consult your veterinarian when making any changes to your pup’s food. He/she will assess any health issues and perhaps will have some free samples for you to try if you prefer going the non-DIY route.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! It’s essential to practice good hygiene throughout the cooking process to prevent contamination. Additionally, avoid ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as onions, grapes, and chocolate. Always store homemade dog food properly to maintain freshness and minimize the risk of bacterial growth. Regularly check for any recalls on commercial ingredients you use, like store-bought broth or canned vegetables, to ensure the safety of your dog’s meals.
Work with your veterinary nutritionist to create recipes that meet your senior dog’s specific nutritional needs. Additionally, using high-quality ingredients, incorporating a variety of protein sources, and adding supplements when necessary can help ensure your dog’s diet is well-balanced.
Portion sizes for homemade soft dog food should be based on your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and any specific dietary requirements. Consult with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to calculate the right portion sizes. Keep in mind that it’s essential to monitor your senior dog’s weight and adjust portion sizes accordingly to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity, a common concern for aging dogs.
