ST. LOUIS — Nestlé Purina has released highlights from a 2019 survey of senior dog owners that show many of them do not realize when their pet is considered a senior and, therefore, could need a change in nutrition to stay healthy and active.

"Dogs' nutritional needs start to change when they reach age seven," said Noa Hefer, brand manager for Purina ONE.

In the survey, 83% of 1,337 senior dog owners were unaware of the age at which a dog is considered a senior, which is 7 years old. In fact, 31% of dog owners believed a dog was considered a senior at 10 years old.

Additionally, 58% of senior dog owners said aging was among their biggest concerns.

While 77% of senior dog owners said their dog exercises regularly, 32% wished their dogs had more energy even as they get older.

Propeller Insights conducted the online survey on behalf of Purina ONE among adults ages 18+ who are U.S. senior dog owners. A total of 1,337 responses were collected between May 10 and May 15, 2019.

Stay up to date on news about the pet food processing industry on our News page.