Is your dog entering their golden years? Our dogs’ dietary needs change as they age, but one thing remains constant: they’re good, good dogs who deserve treats! Thankfully, healthy treats for senior dogs are readily available.
Of course, any treat can be a “senior treat” if you give it to an older dog. But these days, pet brands make treats specially formulated to support senior pet health. If your dog has arthritis, eye issues, or other health issues related to their age, you can find treats with supplements and vitamins to support them.
We’ve combed online reviews, talked to friends, and considered our personal experiences with dog treats for senior dogs. Read on to learn about some of the best senior-specific dog treats available.
6 Healthy Treats for Senior Dogs
- Wellness Natural Soft WellBites
- Cranberry Bladder Bites
- NaturVet Senior Calming Soft Chew
- Greenies Hip and Joint Care
- Old Mother Hubbard Hip and Joint
- Dogswell Super Boost Squares
Now get the full scoop plus reviews.
1. Wellness Natural Soft WellBites ($8/bag)
These grain-free treats are chock full of healthy ingredients. The soft, chewy texture is ideal for senior dog teeth. And they come in an array of proteins, including venison and duck, so you’re sure to find a formula that suits your dog’s taste and dietary needs.
Why we like them:
- Contain antioxidants & omega-rich flaxseed to support skin and coat health
- Made with blueberries & sweet potatoes, which are good for eyes
- Soft texture is gentle on senior dog teeth
Most helpful review: “I have a picky senior dog with very few teeth and weak sense of smell… even most soft treats are way too firm… these treats give him NO trouble and he loves them.”
2. Cranberry Bladder Bites ($24.97 for 90 chews)
These soft chicken liver treats are chock full of nutritive ingredients that support the kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract. They can even be used to treat and prevent recurring UTI’s (though you should always consult your vet first). They’re meant as a daily supplement, so limit your pup to one or two chews per day! Why we like them:
- Cranberries help balance pH levels in the urine, and also bolster digestion and immune function
- Licoric root and astragalus support the kidneys and bladder
- Dogs love the chewy texture and chicken liver flavor
Most helpful review: “Our senior girl had been struggling with a couple of UTI’s. Started giving these twice a day in conjunction with antibiotics and it cleared up. We now give them twice a day as a preventative, and no more UTI’s or accidents.”
3. NaturVet Senior Calming Soft Chew for Dogs ($10.21 for 65 chews)
Like the Cranberry Bladder Bites, these straddle the line between “supplement” and “treat.” They contain calming herbs like chamomile and ginger. They also have melatonin, which acts as a gentle, all-natural sedative. You can give your dog a Quiet Moment treat before high-stress activities like car rides or vet visits. Or, give them one as a bedtime treat to help them get to sleep.
Why we like them:
- A gentle, all-natural alternative to sedatives for stressed-out senior dogs
- Herbal ingredients support the nervous system in reducing stress and tension
- Soft texture is easy for senior dogs to chew
Most helpful review: “My senior Border Collie has always been high strung. Lately, though, she has been having anxiety at night and is completely restless. These have been wonderful! I give her one at bedtime, and she is so calm she sleeps through the night.”
4. Greenies Hip and Joint Care ($21.99 for 18oz)
Greenies Hip + Joint chews offer dental care and joint care in one tasty treat! The easy-to-digest treats contain glucosamine and chondroitin from all-natural sources to support mobility and joint health. Plus, they’re made with a softer texture specifically designed for older dogs.
Why we like them:
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- All-natural ingredients are gentle on sensitive stomachs
- Gently scrub teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup and freshen breath
Most helpful review: My dogs are both 10-year-old mutts that suffer from arthritis. Both of my dogs limp if I do not give them these treats. I have saved $$$ on vet bills because of these treats!”
5. Old Mother Hubbard Hip & Joint Treats ($7.99 for 20oz bag)
These tasty treats are oven-baked for flavor and crunch. Each serving has 750mg/kg of glucosamine hydrochloride and 250mg/kg of chondroitin sulfate to help support your dog’s hip and joint mobility. Use them as training rewards (you can teach an old dog new tricks), or simply as occasional just-because treats.
Why we like them:
- Made with all-natural ingredients
- An easy way to add gluco & condroitin to your dog’s diet
- Crunchy baked texture is less greasy than other dog treats
Most helpful review: “My dogs like these and they’re really helping with the senior dogs’ stiff joints. They seem much more comfortable. I usually give them 2 or 3 a day.”
6. Dogswell Super Boost Squares ($7.89 for 12oz)
These small squares pack a mega-boost of functional benefits to support your senior dog’s immune system. They contain flaxseed and vitamins A & E for healthy eyes, skin and coat. Plus, they’re soft and easy to digest, making them ideal for your older dog. Made from all natural ingredients and with added nutrients.
Why we like them:
- Made from all natural ingredients
- Contain Omega3 for shiny coat and healthy skin
- Can be cut up into small pieces for training
Most helpful review: “He loves it! This does not cause my dog to have any soft or runny stools unlike other dog treats out there that claim to be an antioxidant. It is great for the price you pay.”
DIY Senior Dog Treats: Raid the Cupboard
In addition to commercially available dog treats, consider what you already have at home. Several pantry staples make healthy treats for senior dogs, including:
- Eggs for protein (serve scrambled, cooled, and added to your dog’s meal)
- Yogurt for probiotics and calcium
- Pumpkin and sweet potatoes support skin, eye, and digestive health
- Fish oil and flaxseed contain Omega3 fatty acids
Dogs are with us for a finite time, so treat them well while they’re here!
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