Should you feed your senior dog table scraps or human food?

As our furry friends age, their nutritional needs change, and we may begin to wonder if we should adjust their diet accordingly. One question that often comes up is whether or not we should feed our senior dogs human food or table scraps. While there is no straightforward answer, there are a few factors to consider before deciding what to feed your senior dog.

Nutritional Needs of Senior Dogs

As dogs age, they become less active, and their metabolism slows down. This means that they require fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. In addition, senior dogs may develop certain health conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, or diabetes, which require special diets. Therefore, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Benefits of Human Food for Senior Dogs

Feeding your senior dog human food can have some benefits. For example, some foods like cooked lean meats, vegetables, and fruits can be healthy additions to your dog’s diet. These foods can provide essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that may not be present in their regular dog food.

Furthermore, feeding your dog human food can be a great way to bond with them. It’s important to remember that dogs are social creatures, and eating together can be an enjoyable experience for both of you.

Risks of Human Food for Senior Dogs

On the other hand, feeding your senior dog table scraps or human food can also have some risks. One of the biggest risks is that the food you’re feeding your dog may not be nutritionally balanced for their needs. Many human foods, such as chocolate, grapes, onions, and avocado, can be toxic to dogs and should be avoided.

In addition, feeding your dog from the table can encourage bad habits like begging or stealing food, which can be problematic in the long run.

Tips for Feeding Senior Dogs Human Food

If you do decide to feed your senior dog human food, there are some things to keep in mind:

Consult with your veterinarian first to make sure the foods you’re feeding your dog are safe and nutritionally balanced for their needs. A vet nutritionist can help guide you in which nutrients might be missing, especially if you prefer to home cook for your dog.

• Stick to lean meats, vegetables, and fruits in moderation.
• Avoid feeding your dog from the table or giving them scraps while you’re cooking.
• Consider adding supplements to their diet to ensure they’re getting all the nutrients they need.

Additionally, keep in mind the following:

Nutritional Value: Dogs, like humans, require a balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Human food and table scraps may not provide the right balance of nutrients, and feeding your dog too much of these foods can result in obesity and other health problems. For example, high-fat foods like bacon or sausage can cause pancreatitis in dogs.

Digestive System: Dogs have a different digestive system than humans, and some human foods may be difficult for them to digest. Spicy, salty, or fatty foods can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting. Additionally, some human foods can be toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.

Portion Control: Feeding your senior dog human food or table scraps in moderation is okay, but it is important to monitor the portions. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which is a common problem in senior dogs. Obesity can cause many health problems, such as joint pain, diabetes, and heart disease.

Quality of Food: The quality of human food and table scraps can vary greatly. Feeding your senior dog food that is high in preservatives, additives, and artificial flavors can be harmful to their health. Additionally, feeding your dog food that is spoiled or rotten can cause food poisoning.

Dental Health: Chewing on crunchy kibble helps keep your dog’s teeth clean, healthy, and strong. Eating soft human food or table scraps may not provide the same benefits and can increase the likelihood of tooth decay, bad breath, tooth fractures, or even gum disease.

In conclusion, feeding your senior dog human food or table scraps is not necessarily a bad thing, but it requires careful consideration and moderation. Always consult with your veterinarian first and stick to healthy options in moderation. Remember, a balanced and appropriate diet is essential to keeping your senior dog healthy and happy in their golden years.