Here’s a concise, Australia‑focused guide to feeding ageing (senior) dogs — what to look for, when to switch, feeding tips, and common brands available here.

When to switch

• Many manufacturers label “senior” from about 7+ years, but the right time depends on your dog’s size, breed and health — large breeds often show ageing earlier. Always have a vet check before changing diet. (royalcanin.com)

Nutritional priorities for older dogs

• High‑quality, easily digestible protein to preserve muscle mass (look for named animal proteins near the top of the ingredient list). (royalcanin.com)
• Controlled calories and appropriate fat — many seniors are less active so calorie density should match activity to prevent weight gain. (hillspet.com.au)
• Joint support: EPA/DHA (omega‑3s), glucosamine and chondroitin help joint health and mobility. (royalcanin.com)
• Antioxidants (vitamins E, C, taurine, etc.) to support immune and cellular health. (royalcanin.com)
• Fibre and easily digestible carbs for gut health; prebiotic fibres (e.g., FOS) can help digestion. (PetPost.com.au)
• Adjusted mineral levels (especially phosphorus) if kidney disease is present — vets often recommend renal‑support diets for diagnosed kidney problems. (Discuss with your vet.) (royalcanin.com)

Signs your senior dog’s diet needs attention

• Weight loss or muscle wasting, decreased appetite, new or worsening stiffness/lameness, dental pain / difficulty chewing, chronic diarrhea or constipation, changes in drinking or urination — all warrant a vet visit and diet review. (royalcanin.com)

Practical feeding tips

• If appetite drops, offer palatable wet food or warm dry kibble with a little warm water / low‑salt broth to increase aroma and moisture. (hillspet.com.au)
• Feed smaller, more frequent meals if digestion or appetite is poor. (PetPost.com.au)
• Monitor weight and body condition score monthly and adjust portions. (royalcanin.com)
• For dental disease, use softer textures or wet food and address dental care with your vet. (royalcanin.com)

Common senior dog food brands available in Australia

• Royal Canin (age/size‑specific senior ranges; joint and mobility formulas). (royalcanin.com)
• Hill’s Science Diet (senior/7+ lines, wet and dry). (hillspet.com.au)
• Other Australian/retailer brands you’ll commonly find: Advance, Black Hawk, Ivory Coat, and prescription or therapeutic diets through vets (e.g., Hill’s Prescription, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet). Availability and specific formulas vary by retailer — check product pages or ask your vet/pharmacy. (thevetshed.com.au)

When to consider a prescription/therapeutic diet

• If your dog has diagnosed conditions (chronic kidney disease, heart disease, pancreatitis, severe osteoarthritis, food‑sensitive skin/gut) your vet may recommend a veterinary diet tailored for that condition. Do not self‑switch to prescription diets without vet guidance. (royalcanin.com)

How to change diets safely

• Transition gradually over 7–10 days (start at ~25% new food, increase slowly) and watch for GI upset or appetite changes. If problems arise, slow the transition or consult your vet. (PetPost.com.au)

If you’d like, I can:

• Suggest specific senior formulas in Australia matched to your dog’s size and health (I’ll need age, breed/size, weight, any health issues), or
• Compare 2–3 specific products (nutrition, pros/cons, and typical price ranges).

Would you like tailored product suggestions for your dog?