It is commonly believed that geriatric dogs should be fed less protein. Most commercial senior dog diets have lower levels of protein. Actually, the opposite is true. Geriatric dogs need more protein. Studies indicate that aging in dogs can decrease intestinal digestion and absorption of protein. Other geriatric changes also necessitate the need for increased protein in the diet of these dogs.
loss of muscle mass
Most muscle loss in geriatric dogs is the result of a natural change of aging called sarcopenia. Sarcopenia is common among all mammals, including humans. Inadequate protein intake can speed up this process. Lack of physical activity also promotes loss of muscle mass. This is very common in dogs with arthritic joints or back conditions that are too painful to exercise. Other geriatric conditions such as heart, kidney, and gastrointestinal diseases decrease appetite. Refusing to eat enough protein in the diet contributes to the loss of muscle mass. Some kidney and gastrointestinal diseases are characterized by the loss of body protein and, if not compensated, also contribute to the loss of muscle mass.
loss of bone density
Protein loss can play a role in decreased bone density or osteoporosis. The calcium and phosphorus that characterize the strength of the bones are due in large part to the protein structure that contains these minerals. Low protein diets can lead to a failure to maintain a healthy bone protein framework which increases bone fragility and can predispose older dogs to fractured bones.
Immune system function
The immune system also depends on adequate levels of protein and amino acids. White blood cells need adequate proteins to produce protective antibodies and fight infections from bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The vulnerability of nursing homes to infectious diseases is well documented. Inadequate protein intake or loss can contribute to a weaker immune system.
The Benefits of High Protein Diets in Senior Dogs
Studies show that feeding geriatric dogs high-protein diets can slow and even reverse muscle loss. Bones and immune strength also benefit from high-protein diets. Even dogs with kidney disease who are often treated with low protein diets benefit from high protein diets. Muscle preservation in these patients provides a better quality of life. Renal patients generally only need severe protein restrictions in the advanced or end-stage stages of renal failure.
How much protein do geriatric dogs need?
Studies suggest that diets containing a minimum of 24% protein are appropriate for the aging dog. Because we don’t know exactly how inefficient protein digestion and absorption is in older dogs, 24% may still be inadequate. A 27-30% diet provides a greater margin of safety. It is difficult to find commercial dog foods with these levels of protein for adult and senior dogs. However, well-crafted homemade dog food recipes can easily meet these protein requirements. Always check with your vet before switching to a high-protein diet to make sure it’s right for your older dog.
