As your furry friend gets older their dietary needs change and you need to adjust their meals to keep them healthy and happy. You may find that homemade food is a great way to get your senior dog the nutrients they need and enjoy their meals. By cooking at home you have control over the ingredients so you can focus on what is best for your pet. Senior dogs need a lower-calorie diet packed with nutrients to support their ageing bodies, joint health, digestion and immune function.
Plus, home-cooked meals can be kinder to their digestive system if they have any health issues. Lean meats, vegetables and whole grains can be combined to make delicious and nutritious meals your dog will love. In this guide, you will find various homemade food ideas for senior dogs that are healthy and easy to make.
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By adding these meals to your dog’s diet you will be supporting their health and giving them the pleasure of food. So, get started and see some yummy recipes that will have your senior dog wagging their tail!
Chicken And Rice
A dog classic, chicken and rice is gentle on the stomach and easy to digest. Cook boneless, skinless chicken breast and mix with plain white rice. Good for senior dogs recovering from illness or digestive issues as it’s lean protein and carbs without overwhelming their system. Boil the chicken until cooked, then shred. Cook rice according to package. Mix together and serve warm. You can add a little chicken broth for extra flavour.
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Sweet Potato And Turkey Mash
Sweet potatoes are full of vitamins and fibre so they are a great choice for senior dogs. Combine with lean ground turkey for a protein-packed meal that is good for overall health. Good for dogs that need extra energy without excessive fat. Boil or bake sweet potatoes until tender, then mash. In a separate pan cook the ground turkey until browned. Mix together and serve. Add a drizzle of olive oil for healthy fats.
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Chicken And Veggie Stew
A chicken and veggie stew is a great way to feed your senior dog a healthy meal. This recipe combines lean chicken with dog-friendly veggies for vitamins and minerals and is low in fat. Perfect for dogs that need an extra boost of hydration and overall health. In a pot combine diced chicken breast, carrots, peas and green beans. Add low-sodium chicken broth to cover. Simmer until chicken is cooked and veggies are tender. Let cool before serving. Can be made in larger batches and stored in the fridge for a few days.
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Also Read: 7 Favourite Dog Foods For Every Pup's Palate
Fish And Quinoa
Fish is a great source of omega 3’s which are good for your dog’s coat and joint health. Pair it with quinoa and you get a complete protein and added fibre. This is a nutritious and filling meal.
Bake or steam fish like salmon or mackerel. Cook quinoa according to package directions. Flake fish into quinoa and mix well before serving. Good for dogs with chicken or beef allergies.
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Veggie Omelette
Eggs are a great source of protein and essential fatty acids. A veggie omelette with dog-friendly veggies is a healthy breakfast or dinner option. This is not only healthy but also super easy to make. Whisk eggs in a bowl and pour into a hot skillet. Add chopped veggies like spinach, bell peppers or carrots. Cook until eggs are set then cut into bite-sized pieces for your dog.
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Pumpkin And Oatmeal Delight
Pumpkin is good for digestive health, oatmeal is fibre and energy. This is a tasty and healthy treat that can be served as a meal or snack for your senior dog. Mix canned pumpkin (unsweetened) with cooked oatmeal. Add a little water or low-sodium broth if it’s too thick. Serve warm and you can freeze for later.
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Green Bean And Chicken Casserole
Lean chicken, green beans and brown rice. A balanced meal is low in calories but high in nutrients. Good for senior dogs that need to lose weight. Cook chicken in a skillet. Add brown rice and green beans, and stir until everything is combined and hot. Let cool before serving.