Senior Guide · Medium Senior (10–25 kg)
Medium Senior Dog Food Guide
Medium breed senior dogs (7–8+ years, 10–25 kg) face increasing joint issues, gradual metabolic slowdown, and reduced digestive efficiency. Senior food tailored to these changes supports a better quality of life.
Daily Calorie Guide by Weight
Based on RER × 1.2–1.4 for senior dogs with reduced activity. Reference food: 400 kcal/100g.
| Weight | Daily Calories (senior) | Approx. Amount (400 kcal/100g) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 kg | ~275–315 kcal/day | ~69–79 g |
| 15 kg | ~370–425 kcal/day | ~93–106 g |
| 20 kg | ~455–525 kcal/day | ~114–131 g |
| 25 kg | ~545–625 kcal/day | ~136–156 g |
Key Food Selection Points
- ✓Medium breed senior formula or senior all-breed formula
- ✓High-quality digestible protein for muscle mass maintenance
- ✓Glucosamine & chondroitin — critical at this stage
- ✓Omega-3 (EPA+DHA) for joint and cognitive support
- ✓Lower phosphorus for kidney protection
- ✓Regular vet bloodwork (CBC, chemistry panel) annually — more frequently if health issues are present
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What should I look for in a medium senior dog food?
Quality animal protein as first ingredient, glucosamine and chondroitin for joints (essential for medium breeds prone to hip issues), omega-3 for inflammation reduction, lower calorie density, and lower phosphorus. Choose foods without artificial colors and synthetic preservatives.
Q. My medium senior dog is stiff in the mornings — can diet help?
Morning stiffness is common in dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia. Glucosamine (500 mg/kg+) and omega-3 in the food may help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Fish oil supplementation is also well-supported. For moderate to severe stiffness, consult your vet for a multi-modal pain management plan.
Q. How many calories does a medium senior dog need per day?
Approximately 70 × weight(kg)^0.75 × 1.2–1.4 kcal/day — about 15–20% less than an active adult. For a 15 kg senior, that's roughly 370–425 kcal/day. Use body condition scoring to fine-tune portions.
Q. How often should I take my senior dog to the vet?
At minimum, twice yearly for senior dogs (6-month intervals). Annual bloodwork (kidney function, liver enzymes, thyroid, CBC) helps detect age-related diseases early. More frequent visits may be needed if chronic conditions are present.