As our dogs grow older, their needs begin to change. They may slow down a little, sleep more, and show signs of stiffness or grey around the muzzle. But with the right nutrition, our golden oldies can continue to enjoy life with vitality and sparkle. At Poppy’s Picnic, we believe that a natural, raw diet is one of the best ways to support your dog’s health and happiness as they age.

What Changes in Senior Dogs?

Dogs are typically considered “senior” from around 7 years of age, although this varies depending on breed and size. Larger breeds tend to show signs of ageing earlier, while smaller dogs may retain their youthful bounce well into their teens. As dogs age, they may experience:

• Slower metabolism and weight gain

• Joint stiffness or arthritis

• Weaker immune function

• Diminished muscle mass

• Dental issues

• Reduced appetite or pickiness

The good news? A fresh, raw diet can help address many of these challenges naturally.

The Power of Raw Food for Senior Dogs

A raw diet provides dogs with whole, unprocessed ingredients that are rich in nutrients and easy to digest. Here’s how Poppy’s Picnic meals support senior dogs:

1. Highly Digestible Protein

As dogs age, they still need good-quality protein to maintain muscle mass and support immune function—but it needs to be easy on the stomach. Our RAW POWER meals (like Chicken, Pork or Lamb) use high-quality British meat that’s fresh and easy to digest, helping your senior dog stay strong and mobile.

2. Joint Support

Stiff joints and arthritis are common in older dogs. Our MIGHTY MINCE range contains added botanicals and oils, like flaxseed and salmon oil, which are naturally rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation and keep your dog more comfortable.

You might also consider adding a natural supplement like our nourishing bone broth or a fish oil topper to further support joint health.

3. Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Many older dogs become less active, so they burn fewer calories. Because raw food is so nutrient-dense and contains no unnecessary fillers, it allows you to feed less volume while still meeting your dog’s nutritional needs—helping you manage their weight without compromising on nourishment.

Use our handy feeding guide to adjust portion sizes based on your dog’s current activity level and age.

4. Dental Health

Dental issues can creep up in older dogs, but raw feeding can help. Meaty bones and the act of chewing on raw food naturally clean the teeth and reduce tartar buildup. We offer a selection of appropriate raw bones and chews designed with safety and dental care in mind.

5. Appetite Stimulation

Older dogs can sometimes become fussy eaters. The rich aroma and texture of raw food can be far more appealing than dry kibble. If your dog is off their food, try our POWER BALLS—convenient, bite-sized meatballs that many older dogs find irresistible.

Suitable for Dogs of All Ages

All Poppy’s Picnic raw meals are suitable for dogs of all ages, including seniors. There’s no need to switch to a different food as your dog gets older—simply adjust portion sizes, consider adding a supplement or two, and keep an eye on their condition.

A Lifetime of Support

We’ve seen countless transformations in older dogs who’ve switched to Poppy’s Picnic—from brighter eyes and shinier coats to more energy and better mobility. Our food is lovingly handmade using fresh, British ingredients, so you can feel confident you’re giving your dog the very best.

Try It for Yourself

Whether your dog is slowing down or still bounding about like a pup, it’s never too late to switch to a raw diet. Discover the full range of senior-supportive meals and extras here: Shop Raw Dog Food