A black and white dog sniffs a bowl of dry dog food with visible vegetables, held by a person against a plain background.

Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change. Whether your pup is slowing down, experiencing joint stiffness, or just needs a little extra care, the right food can help them stay happy and healthy. Ollie’s fresh, human-grade meals are crafted to support energy, digestion, and mobility—perfect for older dogs who deserve the best in their golden years.

A smiling, brown and white senior dog with floppy ears looks slightly upward against a plain background.

Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Senior Dogs

As your dog gets older, their body and metabolism begin to slow down. They may develop stiff joints, have a harder time digesting food, or experience changes in weight and energy levels. What they eat plays a major role in how they feel each day.


Common Age-Related Changes in Dogs:

  • Slower metabolism and weight gain

  • Joint stiffness or reduced mobility

  • Loss of muscle mass

  • Sensitive stomach or digestive issues

  • Lower energy and appetite changes


A Diet Change Can Make All the Difference

At Ollie, we believe every senior pup deserves to thrive—not just get by. That’s why we make fresh, human-grade meals with ingredients that directly support the unique needs of older dogs.

  • High-Quality Protein – Helps maintain lean muscle mass and keeps your senior dog strong and active

  • Joint-Supporting Nutrients – Recipes include ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids to help ease stiffness and support mobility

  • Easy to Digest – Gently cooked, limited-ingredient meals that are easy on sensitive stomachs

  • Balanced for Senior Energy Needs – Calorie levels adjusted to support a healthy weight without sacrificing nutrition

With Ollie, you’re not just feeding your dog—you’re helping them stay healthier, longer.

Senior Dogs by the Numbers

As dogs grow older, their diet becomes even more important to their health and quality of life. The right food can help them stay strong, mobile, and comfortable well into their golden years.
Illustration of a smiling dog wearing a blue party hat with "7+" on it, against a light background.

45% of U.S. Dogs Are Over the Age of 7
Nearly half of dogs are considered seniors, meaning they need targeted nutrition to stay healthy and active.
Illustration of a dog with red circles on joints, indicating areas of interest or concern, on a beige background.

80% of Senior Dogs Show Signs of Arthritis
Joint discomfort is common in older dogs, and omega-3 fatty acids and proper nutrition can help reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
Illustration of a stylized intestine with two red X marks, suggesting a problem or issue within the digestive system.

1 in 3 Older Dogs Experiences Digestive Issues
Aging digestive systems become more sensitive. That’s why easy-to-digest, gently cooked meals are key for senior pups.
Illustration of blueberries, a carrot, and a chicken drumstick on a light background.

Proper Nutrition Can Extend Lifespan
Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet has been linked to longer lifespans and improved quality of life in aging dogs.
Illustration of a smiling dog wearing a blue party hat with "7+" on it, against a light background.

45% of U.S. Dogs Are Over the Age of 7
Nearly half of dogs are considered seniors, meaning they need targeted nutrition to stay healthy and active.
Illustration of a dog with red circles on joints, indicating areas of interest or concern, on a beige background.

80% of Senior Dogs Show Signs of Arthritis
Joint discomfort is common in older dogs, and omega-3 fatty acids and proper nutrition can help reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
Illustration of a stylized intestine with two red X marks, suggesting a problem or issue within the digestive system.

1 in 3 Older Dogs Experiences Digestive Issues
Aging digestive systems become more sensitive. That’s why easy-to-digest, gently cooked meals are key for senior pups.
Illustration of blueberries, a carrot, and a chicken drumstick on a light background.

Proper Nutrition Can Extend Lifespan
Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet has been linked to longer lifespans and improved quality of life in aging dogs.

Happy dog in a grassy field looking up.

Ollie Makes Mealtime Easy
for Senior Dogs

As dogs age, it’s more important than ever to feed them fresh, nutritious meals that support their changing needs. At Ollie, we make it simple to give your senior pup the high-quality food they deserve—without the guesswork.


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HIGH-QUALITY INGREDIENTS

We use real meat, fruits, and veggies—never fillers, by-products, or artificial additives—to give your dog clean, wholesome nutrition.

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NUTRITIONALLY BALANCED RECIPES

Crafted by veterinary nutritionists, our meals deliver the right blend of protein, healthy fats, and key nutrients for aging dogs.

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CANINE CARE TEAM

Our nutrition-certified experts are here to help you adjust your dog’s plan as they age and make personalized recommendations along the way.

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CUSTOM PLANS FOR SENIOR NEEDS

We build a meal plan based on your dog’s age, weight, breed, and health goals to support mobility, digestion, and overall wellness.

Ollie Has Helped Thousands of Senior Dogs Thrive

Senior dogs need more than just food—they need nutrition that supports their changing bodies and keeps them feeling good every day. Pet parents across the country have seen the difference Ollie makes, from increased energy and improved digestion to less stiffness and more tail wags. Our fresh, human-grade meals are helping older dogs enjoy a healthier, happier life—one bowl at a time.

Dahlai

8 years on Ollie

Dahlai, Maltese/Pomeranian
5 star rating for testimonial

When I adopted Dahlai she was flea-infested and missing patches of fur. Today, after 8 years on Ollie, she is a vibrant, healthy dog with long locks.

Remi

I know she will live longer being on this fresh food!

Remi, Golden Retriever
5 star rating for testimonial

Remi has so many allergies found in dry kibble. She was losing clumps of hair, itching NONSTOP, and low energy. After finding Ollie and seeing the results very quickly, I’ll never take her off of it! She went from 85lbs to her healthy weight of 58lbs. Thanks Ollie for saving my dog and giving her a very happy life!

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Her wounds from scratching finally healed

Suzie, Labrador
5 star rating for testimonial

Before, Suzie would get open wounds from scratching and biting her paws. Nothing worked - cones, meds, creams, sprays. After four vet trips, they suggested maybe her cancer (removed a couple of years prior) had returned. After four days of eating Ollie, a wound she had about three months started to heal and has had NO recurrences since!

Herlinda

He has nails now!

Herlinda, German Shepherd
5 star rating for testimonial

He has an autoimmune disorder, and Ollie has helped him with that. He has nails now! He used to be a hot mess, but after having him on Ollie for years, he hasn’t had any issues.

Our Best Recipes for Senior Dogs

Older dogs benefit from meals that are easy to digest, rich in nutrients, and supportive of joint and muscle health. Ollie’s fresh, human-grade recipes are formulated with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins to help your senior pup stay active and comfortable. Every recipe is free from artificial additives and fillers, making it a clean, wholesome choice for aging dogs with sensitive stomachs or changing appetites.

chicken

SENSITIVE-BELLIES

Chicken Dish with Carrots

Our Chicken Dish with Carrots recipe is great for poultry-loving pups who appreciate classic flavors and gentle white-meat proteins. Chicken, carrots, and rice are a gentle, yet satisfying combination for dogs with sensitive stomachs, or picky palates.

ALLERGY-FRIENDLY

Turkey Dish with Blueberries

A great protein for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues, which can be the cause of picky eating. Added blueberries, carrots, and kale deliver a powerful punch of immune-boosting antioxidants and flavor.

Happy dog in a grassy field looking up.

Our Fresh Food Supports
Healthy Aging in Senior Dogs

Ollie’s gently cooked, meat-first recipes are made with real ingredients that support mobility, digestion, and energy—everything your senior dog needs to feel their best. With customized meal plans based on your dog’s age, size, and health goals, it’s never been easier to give them the nutrition they deserve.

FAQs About Food & Nutrition for Senior Dogs

Learn more about Ollie and how the right diet can support your senior pup’s health.

What is the best dog food for senior dogs?

How is senior dog food different from regular dog food?

Can Ollie help with my dog’s joint issues?

Is fresh food better than kibble for senior dogs?

How do I know how much to feed my senior dog?

What if my senior dog is a picky eater?

Do senior dogs need a specific type of protein?