TL;DR: The best treats for senior dogs deliver natural glucosamine for joints, omega-3s for brain and coat health, and lean protein that's easy on the gut. Rufus Chews chicken feet (~450mg glucosamine per foot), shark jerky sticks (omega-3 rich), and kangaroo liver (ultra-lean, novel protein) are three of the strongest single-ingredient options. WAG and Laila & Me also have senior-friendly products worth considering.
What Are the Best Treats for Older Dogs?
The best treats for older dogs are low in fat, high in natural joint-supporting compounds like glucosamine and chondroitin, and made from a single digestible protein. Chicken feet, shark jerky, and kangaroo liver all meet this standard naturally, with no additives or supplements required.
Your dog's seventh birthday isn't just a milestone worth celebrating with a pup-cake. It's the point most vets consider a medium-to-large breed dog "senior" (smaller breeds often hit that mark closer to ten). And the shift is real. What your dog needs from their food -- and their treats -- genuinely changes as they age.
The good news: you don't need to overhaul everything. Making smarter choices about treats goes a long way. This guide covers exactly what senior dogs need nutritionally, which single-ingredient treats deliver it best, what to avoid, and how to work treats into your older dog's daily routine.
What Do Senior Dogs Actually Need From Their Treats?
Canine osteoarthritis affects approximately 20% of dogs over the age of one, rising to 80% in dogs over eight years old, according to research published in the Veterinary Journal. That's not a niche concern -- it's the default trajectory for most ageing dogs.
But joints aren't the whole picture. Senior dogs also face cognitive decline, weight gain, reduced kidney function, and digestive changes. Here's the full breakdown of what to look for in a senior dog treat:
Joint Support
Glucosamine and chondroitin are the two compounds you want in a senior dog's diet. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring molecule that helps maintain cartilage tissue and joint fluid, while chondroitin resists cartilage compression and supports cushioning between bones. Food-source glucosamine -- from cartilage-rich treats like chicken feet or shark jerky -- comes bound in a natural protein matrix that may improve absorption compared to isolated powder supplements.
Anti-Inflammatory Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids (particularly EPA and DHA) have well-documented anti-inflammatory effects. In older dogs, this matters for joint pain, brain function, coat condition, and heart health. Fish-based treats are the most potent natural source -- shark and other marine proteins deliver omega-3s in concentrations that rival fish oil supplements.
Lean Protein for Weight Management
Senior dogs are more prone to weight gain. Reduced activity, slower metabolism, and the natural loss of lean muscle mass (a condition called sarcopenia) all conspire to put extra kilograms on your older dog. Treats need to be high in protein and low in fat -- because protein maintains muscle mass while excess fat just adds to the load on ageing joints.
Cognitive Support
Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) -- essentially doggy dementia -- affects an estimated 28% of dogs aged 11-12 and 68% of dogs aged 15-16, according to a study in the Journal of Veterinary Behaviour. DHA (a specific omega-3 fatty acid) is a primary structural component of brain tissue and may support cognitive function in ageing dogs. It's a genuine reason to rotate marine-protein treats into a senior dog's routine.
Easy Digestibility
Older dogs often have less stomach acid and reduced enzyme production, making them more prone to digestive upset. Single-ingredient treats with no artificial additives, fillers, or grains are inherently easier on the gut. Air-dried meat and cartilage-based treats break down cleanly, unlike highly processed commercial treats containing wheat, corn syrup, and preservatives.
Dental Support (Without the Hard Crunch)
Dental disease is the most common health problem in dogs, affecting up to 76% of all dogs by age three. By the time a dog is senior, most have some degree of periodontal disease. Softer chews that still provide mechanical cleaning -- like shark jerky or liver treats -- are preferable to extremely hard chews that risk cracking aged teeth.
The Best Single-Ingredient Treats for Senior Dogs
The four treats below are the strongest options in the Rufus Chews range for senior-specific needs. Each is single-ingredient, air-dried in Queensland, and sourced from Australian farms and waters.
1. Chicken Feet: The Joint Health Gold Standard
Each Rufus Chews chicken foot contains approximately 450mg of natural glucosamine and 300-400mg of chondroitin -- comparable to what you'd find in a commercial joint supplement capsule. The difference is your dog will actually look forward to it. The glucosamine comes bound within collagen, tendons, and cartilage tissue, which may improve bioavailability compared to isolated glucosamine powder.
They're also a legitimate dental chew. The crunchy cartilage scrapes plaque from the gum line as your dog gnaws, and because they're air-dried (not cooked), the small bones crumble safely rather than splintering. For senior dogs, this is the sweet spot: a chew soft enough for ageing teeth that still does real dental work.
Chicken feet are moderate in fat (~15-18% dried), so dogs with pancreatitis history or significant weight issues should have them a few times per week rather than daily.
2. Shark Jerky Sticks: Omega-3s, Joints, and Brain Health in One
Rufus Chews shark jerky sticks are the most nutritionally comprehensive senior treat in the range. Shark meat is high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids -- the same anti-inflammatory compounds vets recommend in fish oil supplements. The cartilage content also provides natural glucosamine and chondroitin, making shark jerky a dual-action treat for both joint and cognitive support.
Shark is also a novel protein. If your senior dog has developed food sensitivities over the years (very common in older dogs), shark is unlikely to be on the list of known allergens -- which makes it a safe rotation option alongside more common proteins.
These sticks have a semi-soft jerky texture, making them ideal for dogs with dental sensitivities or fewer teeth. Easy to tear into smaller pieces for training rewards too.
3. Kangaroo Liver: Lean Protein for Weight Management
Rufus Chews kangaroo liver is the leanest option in the range -- extremely low in fat, rich in B vitamins, iron, and zinc, with the highest omega-3 content of any liver protein. For senior dogs watching their weight, it's the go-to training treat: small, palatable, and nutritionally dense without the caloric load of higher-fat options.
Kangaroo is also a hypoallergenic novel protein. Dogs that have developed sensitivities to chicken, beef, or lamb over their lifetime can usually tolerate kangaroo without issue. The iron and B12 content also supports healthy energy levels in older dogs who may be showing signs of fatigue.
4. Beef Liver: Dense Nutrition for Ageing Bodies
Rufus Chews beef liver is one of the most nutrient-dense natural foods on the planet. It's loaded with Vitamin A, iron, zinc, copper, and healthy fats -- the kind of nutritional density that supports immune function, eye health, and cellular repair in senior dogs. It's highly palatable (even fussy senior dogs go nuts for it), easy to break into tiny pieces, and delivers meaningful nutrition per treat.
Because beef liver is moderate in Vitamin A, it's best fed as part of a rotation rather than the sole treat -- daily feeding in large quantities can lead to Vitamin A excess over time. A few pieces a few times per week is the right rhythm for most senior dogs.
Senior Dog Treat Comparison Table
Here's how the four primary Rufus Chews treats compare across the key needs of an ageing dog:
| Treat | Joint Support | Cognitive Support | Weight Friendly | Dental Benefit | Digestion | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Feet | Excellent (450mg glucosamine/foot) | Low | Moderate | Good | Very good | Joint health, arthritis support |
| Shark Jerky Sticks | Good (cartilage glucosamine) | Excellent (DHA/EPA) | Good | Moderate | Excellent | Brain health, joints, sensitive dogs |
| Kangaroo Liver | Low | Moderate (omega-3) | Excellent (ultra-lean) | Low | Excellent | Weight management, training, allergies |
| Beef Liver | Low | Moderate (Vitamin A, B12) | Good | Low | Excellent | Nutrient density, fussy eaters |
Treats to Avoid for Senior Dogs
Not every treat that's fine for a younger dog is appropriate for an ageing one. Here's what to steer clear of:
Very Hard Chews (Antlers, Hooves, Hard Pressed Rawhide)
Extremely hard chews -- the kind that don't give when you press a thumbnail into them -- pose a real risk for senior dogs. The "slab fracture test" is simple: if the chew is harder than your dog's tooth, it can crack a molar. Fractured teeth in older dogs are painful, expensive to treat, and a genuine welfare concern. Stick to chews with some flex or natural crumble.
High-Fat Treats
Senior dogs have a reduced ability to metabolise fat efficiently. High-fat treats increase the risk of pancreatitis (painful and potentially serious), contribute to weight gain, and can strain ageing kidneys. Check the fat content on any treat you buy -- anything above 20% fat (dry weight) is worth limiting for senior dogs.
Treats with Artificial Additives and Preservatives
Many commercial senior treats are ironically some of the most heavily processed products on the market -- loaded with preservatives, artificial colours, and binding agents. Senior dogs with reduced organ function are less equipped to process these compounds. Single-ingredient, air-dried treats eliminate this concern entirely by definition.
Grain-Based Dental Chews (Greenies and Similar)
Popular processed dental chews like Greenies are primarily made from wheat and corn starch, with a long list of additives. While they do provide some mechanical cleaning, their grain content can be a problem for older dogs with digestive sensitivities or known food intolerances. Natural chews -- chicken feet, shark jerky, chicken necks -- provide the same (or better) dental benefit from a single, identifiable protein source.
Treats with High Sodium
Older dogs are more susceptible to kidney stress, and high-sodium treats compound the problem. Many jerky-style commercial treats are loaded with salt as a flavour enhancer and preservative. Air-dried single-ingredient treats contain only the naturally occurring sodium present in the meat -- no added salt.
Feeding Guide for Senior Dogs
Treats should account for no more than 10% of your dog's total daily caloric intake. For a senior dog eating 600-800 calories per day (a typical amount for a medium senior dog at maintenance weight), that's 60-80 calories in treats -- roughly 1-2 chicken feet, or a small handful of liver pieces.
| Dog Size | Weight | Treat Allowance (10% rule) | Chicken Feet | Shark Jerky Sticks | Liver Treats |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (Cavoodle, Maltese) | Under 10kg | ~40-60 cal | 1 foot, 2-3x/week | 1 stick, 2-3x/week | 3-4 small pieces daily |
| Medium (Kelpie, Staffy, Beagle) | 10-25kg | ~60-100 cal | 1-2 feet, 3-4x/week | 1-2 sticks, 3-4x/week | 5-8 pieces daily |
| Large (Labrador, German Shepherd) | 25-40kg | ~100-140 cal | 2 feet daily | 2 sticks, daily | 8-12 pieces daily |
| Extra Large (Rottweiler, Great Dane) | 40kg+ | ~140-180 cal | 2-3 feet daily | 2-3 sticks daily | 10-15 pieces daily |
A few extra pointers for senior dogs specifically:
- Rotate proteins week to week -- chicken feet one week, shark jerky the next. This reduces the risk of developing new sensitivities and ensures a broader nutritional spread.
- Give chews after meals, not before. An empty stomach increases the chance of nausea or regurgitation with higher-fat chews in older dogs.
- Always supervise senior dogs with any chew. Older dogs can lose the fine motor control and jaw strength to chew methodically -- some will start to gulp pieces as they tire.
- Fresh water should always be available. Chewing is hydrating work, and older dogs are at greater risk of dehydration.
Building a Senior Dog Treat Rotation
No single treat does everything. The most nutritionally complete approach for an ageing dog is a rotation that covers different needs across the week. Here's one way to structure it:
- Monday/Wednesday/Friday: Chicken feet -- joint glucosamine, dental cleaning
- Tuesday/Thursday: Shark jerky sticks -- omega-3s, cognitive support, anti-inflammatory
- Daily (small quantity): Kangaroo or beef liver as training rewards -- lean protein, nutrient density, palatability
- Weekend: Rest day or a moderate chew like beef paddywacks for an older dog who still enjoys a longer chew session
This kind of rotation hits joints, cognition, weight management, dental health, and nutrient density across a seven-day cycle -- all from single-ingredient, Australian-sourced treats with zero additives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best treats for dogs with arthritis?
Chicken feet are the most effective single-ingredient treat for dogs with arthritis, providing approximately 450mg of natural glucosamine and 300-400mg of chondroitin per foot -- the two compounds most commonly recommended for joint health. Shark jerky sticks complement this with omega-3 fatty acids that may reduce joint inflammation. Both are available from Rufus Chews as single-ingredient, air-dried treats sourced in Australia.
Can senior dogs eat jerky treats?
Yes, provided the jerky is single-ingredient with no added salt, preservatives, or artificial flavourings. Air-dried shark jerky and kangaroo liver from Rufus Chews are both senior-appropriate: soft enough for ageing teeth, digestible, and free from additives. Avoid commercial jerky products that list salt, glycerin, or preservatives on the label.
Are chicken feet safe for older dogs with bad teeth?
Air-dried chicken feet are generally suitable for dogs with ageing teeth. The bones are small and crumble when chewed rather than creating hard impact points that could fracture a tooth. That said, if your dog has severely damaged or loose teeth, it's worth consulting your vet. For dogs with significant dental issues, softer options like liver treats or shark jerky are the safer starting point.
What natural supplements can I give my senior dog for joints?
The most effective natural joint support comes from food sources: glucosamine and chondroitin from cartilage-rich treats (chicken feet, shark jerky), omega-3s from marine proteins (shark, fish), and collagen from connective tissue chews. These deliver joint-supporting compounds in their natural food matrix, which research suggests may be better absorbed than isolated supplement powders. Rufus Chews chicken feet provide approximately 450mg of glucosamine per foot from 100% Australian chicken.
How many treats should a senior dog get per day?
Treats should account for no more than 10% of a senior dog's total daily caloric intake. For a medium senior dog (10-25kg) eating around 700-900 calories daily, that's 70-90 calories in treats -- roughly 1-2 chicken feet, or 1-2 shark jerky sticks, or a small handful of liver pieces. Reduce the main meal slightly on treat-heavy days to keep calories in balance.
What treats help with cognitive decline in older dogs?
Treats rich in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) -- a specific omega-3 fatty acid -- are the most relevant for cognitive support in ageing dogs. DHA is a structural component of brain tissue and research suggests it may support cognitive function as dogs age. Shark jerky sticks and kangaroo liver are the two Rufus Chews products highest in omega-3s, making them the best choices for senior dogs showing early cognitive changes.
Are single-ingredient treats better for senior dogs?
For most senior dogs, yes. Single-ingredient treats eliminate the risk of reactions to unknown additives, artificial preservatives, or grain-based fillers that are common in multi-ingredient commercial treats. Older dogs often have reduced organ function and are more likely to have developed food sensitivities -- keeping treats as simple as possible reduces dietary variables. Air-dried single-ingredient treats from Rufus Chews contain one thing: the named meat, nothing else.
What should I avoid giving my old dog as a treat?
Avoid very hard chews (antlers, hooves, hard-pressed rawhide) that can fracture ageing teeth. Steer clear of high-fat treats that stress ageing kidneys and increase pancreatitis risk. Avoid treats with artificial preservatives, added salt, grain fillers, or long ingredient lists. Commercial dental chews based on wheat starch are not ideal for senior dogs with digestive sensitivities.