The Golden Years: Supporting Your Senior Dog’s Mobility and Digestion
Graceful Ageing Through Nutrition
As our dogs enter their senior years, their biological requirements shift. Metabolism slows down, the "internal sweep" of the digestive system becomes less efficient, and maintaining structural integrity becomes the top priority to manage the onset of stiffness and age-related decline.
To support a senior dog, we must move beyond standard nutrition and provide the specific building blocks required to keep their joints supple and their digestion smooth.
Supporting the "Internal Scaffolding"
In older dogs, supporting connective tissue is about maintaining comfort and range of motion. We focus on two key nutritional powerhouses:
1. Manganese: The Ligament Support
Continuing to provide Manganese through functional treats like Beef Tendons is critical for seniors. This trace mineral supports the ligaments that hold aging joints together, helping to maintain stability even as muscle mass naturally decreases.
2. Green Lipped Mussel: The Coastal Superfood
If Manganese is the engine room of joint health, then Green Lipped Mussel is the premium lubricant. These mussels are a concentrated source of Omega-3 fatty acids, Glucosamine, and Chondroitin. Unlike standard fish oils, they contain ETAs (eicosatetraenoic acids), which provide a potent, natural anti-inflammatory effect. Whether used as a treat or a powder, they are a vital tool for reducing the daily "creakiness" in senior joints.
Gentle Digestion: The "Internal Sweep"
Older dogs often struggle with a sluggish digestive tract. Insoluble Fibre is a gentle, non-invasive way to support their gut. Treats that retain their natural fur, such as Goat Trotters or Rabbit Jerky, provide that essential "internal sweep." This natural cleaning action helps move waste through the system efficiently, reducing the bloating and discomfort often seen in less active seniors.
For dogs with dental sensitivities, our Rabbit Jerky and Duck options provide a softer texture that is easy on aging teeth while still being packed with high-quality protein and beneficial Emu oil to support a healthy coat.
Common Questions: Specialist Care for Seniors
My senior dog is very stiff in the mornings. What can help?
Focus on "The Big Three": Manganese for ligament stability, Green Lipped Mussel for inflammation, and Emu for beneficial oils. Our Emu and Crocodile treats are particularly effective for seniors because they are highly anti-inflammatory.
Are "furry" treats safe for older dogs?
Yes, and they are often highly beneficial. The Insoluble Fibre in the fur acts as a natural cleaning action for the colon, which can help prevent the constipation that many senior dogs experience as they become less active.
Which novel protein is best for an aging dog with a sensitive stomach?
Rabbit is arguably the most digestible protein for a senior. It is lean, easy on the pancreas, and our Rabbit Jerky is soft enough for dogs with minor dental issues.
Conclusion
Your dog’s senior years should be about quality of life. By providing the right building blocks for structural integrity and supporting their digestion with a natural cleaning action, you can help your old friend stay comfortable and engaged with the world for as long as possible.
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