How often to feed a senior dog
Twice a day, roughly twelve hours apart, suits most senior dogs better than one large meal. It's gentler on an older digestive system, keeps blood sugar steadier through the day, and makes it easier to spot a dog who's suddenly gone off their food — which matters more as a dog gets older and appetite changes become worth noticing.
Why twice a day tends to work better for older dogs
A senior dog's digestion, joints and energy levels are usually less forgiving of one big meal than a younger adult dog's. Splitting the same total amount into two servings reduces the load on the stomach at any one time and tends to sit better, particularly in a dog carrying a bit more weight or slowing down generally.
It also gives you two chances a day to notice how they're doing rather than one. A dog who eats breakfast normally but skips their evening meal is telling you something worth watching, and you'd miss that entirely on a single daily feed.
The method, not a plan for your specific dog
Keep the total daily amount the same as it was — the change is splitting it, not increasing it, since senior dogs are often less active and can gain weight quickly on the same portion that suited them as younger adults. A rough starting point is morning and early evening, spaced around twelve hours apart, adjusted to fit your own routine.
The right total amount for your own dog depends on their weight, breed, activity level and any health condition they have, so use the feeding guide on their food as a starting point and check it with your vet rather than treating any generic number as fixed. A dog gaining or losing weight steadily is the clearest sign the amount needs adjusting either way.
When timing alone isn't the answer
A senior dog who goes off their food, seems reluctant to eat, or is losing weight despite eating normally needs a vet visit rather than a change in feeding schedule — those are signs worth having checked rather than managed at home, since several common causes in older dogs need proper diagnosis.
Dental pain is a common and easily missed reason an older dog eats less or more slowly than before, and it's worth ruling out before assuming it's simply age. Ring your vet if a change in appetite lasts more than a day or two, or sooner if your dog seems unwell in any other way.
Feeding kit
Things we stock that owners commonly reach for here. Nothing on this page depends on you buying one.
Tarhong Concentric Circle Slow Feeder Bowl for Dogs & Cats
A stylish slow-feeder bowl that encourages healthier, calmer mealtimes — available in blue, grey, or white.
£14.99
Tarhong Medallion Slow Feeder Puzzle Dog Bowl
A stylish BPA-free puzzle bowl that slows down greedy eaters — available in three sizes and a choice of colours.
From£10.99
LickiMat Wobble & Splash Enrichment Bowls for Dogs
Wobbling rubber enrichment bowls that add movement and challenge to treat time, encouraging slower eating and longer-lasting fun.
£16.99
Common questions
- Should I feed my senior dog less as they get older?
- Not automatically — it depends on their activity level and weight rather than age alone. Many senior dogs need slightly fewer calories as they slow down, but the way to judge it is by watching their weight and body condition over time, ideally with your vet's input, rather than cutting portions on a fixed schedule.
- Is it better to feed a senior dog wet or dry food?
- Either can work well, and the choice often comes down to dental comfort and personal preference rather than one being universally better. A dog with sore teeth or gums may find softer wet food easier to manage, and mixing a little wet food into dry can help too — ask your vet if you're weighing this up for a specific health reason.
- Why has my senior dog suddenly started eating more slowly?
- It's often dental discomfort, a change in smell or taste sensitivity, or simply a general slowing down with age, but it can also signal something that needs a vet's attention. If it's a new change rather than a gradual one, or comes with weight loss or reluctance to eat at all, get it checked rather than assuming it's just age.
- Can I still feed my senior dog treats?
- Yes, in moderation and counted as part of their daily food rather than extra on top, since weight gain becomes easier and harder to shift in an older, less active dog. A slow feeder or puzzle toy is a good way to make a small number of treats last longer through the day.
Related
Sources
Written against guidance published by UK veterinary and welfare organisations. Always confirm specifics with your own vet.
Written by Matt Garnett, who runs Giddy Pets and is a lifelong pet owner — not a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your animal. How we write these guides.