13 Healthy Snacks for Your Senior Dog
When it comes to the health and well-being of your senior dog, nutrition plays a crucial role. Older dogs have different needs than their younger counterparts.
It is important that their snacks are not only tasty but also nutritious and tailored to their age-related needs. This can help support their vitality and counteract age-related issues.
That is why we have put together a list of 13 healthy snacks for your senior dog. From snacks that support joint health to treats that are rich in essential vitamins, this selection is specifically designed to help your loyal companion enjoy a happy, active life in their golden years.
Each snack will not only taste great to your dog, it will also provide important nutrients they need to feel their best.
Note that some snacks may need to be adjusted to make them safe for your dog. Always check which foods your dog cannot tolerate, and consult your veterinarian if you are unsure.
Snacks should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake to maintain a healthy weight.
Vegetables as healthy treats
Vegetables are an excellent way to offer your senior dog healthy, tasty snacks. They provide a variety of important nutrients, are gentle on the teeth, and are easy to digest.
#1 Carrot sticks
Raw or lightly steamed, carrot sticks are a real treat for your dog. They are rich in beta carotene, which supports eye health, and their firm texture can help clean teeth. You can simply cut them into sticks and offer them as a crunchy snack.
#2 Cooked green beans
Cooked green beans are a good source of fiber and are also low in calories.
These qualities make green beans an ideal treat, especially if you need to watch your dog’s weight. Make sure the beans are cooked until soft and served unseasoned before giving them to your dog.
#3 Cucumber slices
Cucumbers are mostly water, making them a refreshing snack for your dog.
They are also low in calories and can help keep your dog hydrated. Just cut a few cucumber slices and offer them to your senior dog as a light between-meals snack.
Fruit as a vitamin-rich option
If you are looking for healthy snack options for your senior dog, fruits like apples, blueberries, and watermelon offer a wealth of vitamins while being tasty and easy to tolerate.
#4 Apple slices without seeds
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins A and C, which support the immune system and promote digestion.
Be sure to remove the seeds before giving apple pieces to your dog, as they can contain harmful substances. The apple pieces should be raw and cut into bite-sized pieces.
#5 Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and can support your senior dog’s immune system.
They are naturally sweet and can be fed as fresh berries. This snack is not only healthy but also a welcome change of pace in your dog’s meal plan.
#6 Watermelon without seeds
Watermelon is an especially refreshing snack in summer that helps your dog stay hydrated.
It is low in calories and contains important vitamins like A, B6, and C. Remove the seeds thoroughly and offer the pieces in small portions to prevent choking.
Protein-rich snacks for muscle maintenance
Protein-rich snacks are essential for maintaining and strengthening your senior dog’s muscles. Especially with age, it is important to focus on a balanced diet so your loyal companion stays fit and active.
#7 Cooked chicken
Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein that is easy to digest and supports your dog’s muscles.
Cook the chicken without any seasonings and cut it into small pieces to make it easier to chew. This is especially helpful for dogs prone to digestive issues or with sensitive teeth.
#8 Ground beef meatballs
Ground beef is rich in iron content and can help boost your senior dog’s vitality.
Form the raw, unseasoned ground beef into small balls and bake them in the oven. Make sure the meatballs are cooked through to keep your dog safe.
#9 Cottage cheese-filled snacks
Cottage cheese offers a soft texture that is ideal for older dogs with dental issues.
Stuff other vegetables or toys with a small spoonful of cottage cheese to promote mental engagement and chewing. Choose a low-fat cottage cheese to help manage your dog’s weight.
Low-carb snacks for weight management
If you are watching your senior dog’s weight, low-carb snacks are an excellent choice. They help control weight while still being tasty and healthy.
#10 Pumpkin cubes
Pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween! These bright orange veggies are also fantastic as healthy treats for your dog, especially in cube form.
Pumpkins are rich in fiber and help promote a feeling of fullness while being low in calories.
You can make pumpkin cubes by removing the seeds, cutting the pumpkin into bite-sized cubes, and baking them in the oven until tender. Let them cool before giving them to your dog.
#11 Sweet potato sticks
Sweet potato sticks are another excellent snack option that delivers lots of flavor without too many calories.
Sweet potatoes contain vitamins like A and B6, which are important for your senior dog’s eye health and nerve function.
Cut a sweet potato into sticks and bake them until tender. Be sure not to use any additional seasonings or oils, as these can be unhealthy for your dog.
Homemade snacks for a special treat
Your senior dog deserves not only love and attention but also snacks tailored to their needs.
Homemade snacks are not only a way to delight your loyal companion, they also let you ensure that all the ingredients are healthy and suitable for your senior dog.
#12 Liverwurst cookies
Liverwurst cookies are a delightful treat that not only offers your dog some variety in flavor, they can also provide important nutrients.
For the preparation you will need:
- 1 cup flour (e.g., spelt or rice flour)
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/4 cup liverwurst
- A little water
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl to form a dough and roll it out.
Then use cookie cutters to cut small cookies and bake them at 180°C for about 25 minutes.
Liverwurst is highly palatable and rich in vitamins, which is especially beneficial for older dogs. In addition, chewing the cookies can help clean teeth.
#13 Tuna ice cubes
On warm days, tuna ice cubes are a refreshing reward that helps your senior dog cool down.
For this you will need:
- 1 can of tuna in water
- Water
- An ice cube tray
Blend the tuna with a little water and pour the mixture into an ice cube tray.
Place everything in the freezer for a few hours until the cubes are firm. Tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These can support joint health, which is an important consideration for older dogs.
The coolness of the ice can also soothe the gums and reduce discomfort.
