Best Food for Senior Dogs | AATU Grain Free Recipes

Caring for your senior dog Best Food for Senior Dogs | AATU Grain Free Recipes

06 Oct 2025 by Ella Carter

Caring for your senior dog: choosing the right food

If you’ve noticed your dog slowing down a little, taking longer naps, or not bouncing up quite as quickly as they used to, you’re not alone. Ageing is natural - for us and for our pets - and it brings with it a few changes. Senior dogs often digest food differently, their energy levels dip, and their immune systems aren’t quite as sharp as they once were.

That doesn’t mean they can’t live full, happy lives. With the right nutrition, older dogs can continue to thrive well into their golden years. And that’s where AATU comes in. Every recipe is crafted with over 80% meat or fish, supported by our Superfood BlendTM with fruits, vegetables, herbs and botanicals - making it easier to digest and more rewarding at every stage of life.

Whether your dog prefers Salmon, Chicken, Turkey or Duck, every dry recipe is packed with high-quality ingredients to support them through every life stage. Here is what one nutritional expert, Sarah McNamara, has to say about choosing the right diet for senior dogs:

"All AATU recipes are naturally enriched with joint support through the inclusion of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM - nutrients that help maintain mobility and comfort as dogs age. The high levels of quality protein also support lean muscle mass, which is especially important for senior dogs. In addition, every recipe contains added pre- and probiotics to help maintain a healthy digestive system, meaning senior dogs benefit from all-round support in every bowl."

What is a ‘senior’ dog?

The word “senior” might sound a bit clinical, but really it just means your dog is entering their later life stage. Exactly when that happens depends on their size and breed. A smaller breed like a Terrier may stay sprightly well into their teens, while a larger breed such as a Labrador could show signs of ageing as early as six years old. 
What should you look out for? A senior dog may:
  • Move more slowly or feel stiff after a walk
  • Nap more often than they used to
  • Shed more, or have a coat that looks thinner
  • Experience changes in digestion or toilet habits
  • Be less tolerant of heat or cold
Noticing these things early gives you the chance to adapt their diet and lifestyle, helping them stay comfortable and supported.

What makes senior dogs’ diets different?

As dogs age, their bodies simply ask for a little more from their food. Their dietary needs differ from younger dogs in several ways:
  • Energy levels: As activity slows, it’s important to feed meals that provide steady energy.
  • Joint health: Many senior dogs experience stiffness or reduced mobility, making joint support essential, along with other lifestyle adjustments to help care for their joints.
  • Digestive balance: Older dogs can be more sensitive to dietary changes and need consistent, gut-friendly nutrition - benefitting from probiotics, prebiotics and grain-free foods.
Here’s something you may not know: every AATU recipe already includes Glucosamine and Chondroitin - nutrients that support joint health. These are usually only highlighted in “senior” or “specialist” diets, but we believe dogs deserve that support at every stage of life. It means you don’t need to wait for your dog to hit a certain age before they benefit. AATU has it built in, right from the start.

Why grain free helps older dogs:

Grain free diets can be particularly beneficial for senior dogs. Grains can be harder to digest and by removing them, you reduce the risk discomfort and care for their sensitive stomach.

AATU’s grain free recipes are crafted to be gentle on the stomach, while still providing a rich source of protein and nutrients from fresh meat or fish, fruits, and botanicals. This ensures that older dogs absorb the nutrition they need to stay healthy and active. With added pre and probiotics in all our dry recipes, AATU creates the perfect balance for senior dogs who may be more prone to tummy upsets, ensuring comfort as well as nourishment.

Explore our full AATU Grain Free Dog Food range to find the flavour that best suits your senior companion.

How to transition your older dog to a senior diet

If you’re thinking about changing your dog’s food, it’s best to do it gradually. Senior dogs in particular can have sensitive stomachs, so take your time.
  • Start by mixing a little AATU into their usual food.
  • Over the course of 7–10 days, slowly increase the amount of AATU while decreasing the old food.
  • Keep mealtimes smaller and more frequent if that suits your dog.
  • Fresh water is essential - always keep a bowl topped up and close to their food bowl.
  • Keep an eye on their weight, coat, and bowel habits as you go.
And of course, if you’re ever worried about allergies or sudden changes, your vet will give the best advice.

FAQ’s

What is the best food for senior dogs? 

Look for something high in protein and enriched with joint-supporting nutrients. AATU offers all of this as standard.

Do older dogs need grain free food?

Not every dog does, but many find grain free diets easier to digest, especially as they age.

How much should I feed my senior dog each day?

That depends on their breed, size and activity. Use feeding guidelines as a starting point, then adjust to keep them at a healthy weight.

What ingredients should I look for in senior dog food?

Protein from quality meat or fish, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, and joint support like Glucosamine and Chondroitin.

Is high protein good for older dogs?

Yes. Protein helps keep muscles strong and supports overall health, even in later years. It also supports saeity making your dog feel fuller for longer therefore less scavenging which can lead to unwanted weight gain especially if they are becoming less active.

Do senior dogs benefit from pre and probiotics?

Yes. As dogs get older, their digestive systems can become more sensitive. Pre- and probiotics help support gut health, making it easier for them to absorb the nutrients they need. All AATU dry recipes contain these as standard, so your senior dog is supported at every mealtime.

Customer reviews

"Bridget is our 12+ year old staffie cross who has had AATU wet assorted and chicken and turkey dry food for the last 10 years. She loves her food as soon as it’s down she’s into the bowl. I know she getting good quality food that she enjoys and keeps her fit. She might be a little grey around the edges but she still walks the coast and chases her ball like a young dog..." From verified AATU customer, Chris. W.

 

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