September 18, 2026
When choosing food for our dogs, especially as they get older or develop food sensitivities, it is important to consider more than the ingredients listed on the pack.
The food’s texture, aroma, palatability and digestibility can all influence how much a dog enjoys their meals and how well the food meets their individual needs. For dogs that find chewing difficult, have become less interested in eating or require a carefully selected protein, slow cooked dog food may offer a practical alternative.
A dog’s appetite can change as they age. Dental disease, missing teeth, discomfort, illness and a reduced sense of smell can all make eating less appealing.
Soft food may be easier for some senior dogs to chew than harder foods, while a rich natural aroma can help make mealtimes more enticing. This can be particularly useful for older dogs that have become fussy or are no longer as enthusiastic about their usual meals.
Any sudden or ongoing change in appetite should still be discussed with your veterinarian, as it may indicate an underlying dental or medical problem.
Slow cooked dog food is prepared gently at a lower temperature over a longer period. This creates a soft, moist texture while enhancing the natural aromas and flavours of the ingredients.
Prime100 SPD Slow Cooked recipes combine selected ingredients with a flavourful broth that is simmered low and slow. The result is a shelf-stable complete and balanced meal that can be stored in the pantry until opened.
The recipes are designed to be highly palatable, which may make them appealing to fussy eaters as well as dogs that prefer a softer food texture.
A single protein diet uses one source of animal protein within the recipe. Feeding fewer protein sources can make it easier to identify and avoid ingredients that may be contributing to an adverse food reaction.
This can be helpful for dogs with suspected food allergies or intolerances, particularly when the diet contains a novel protein the dog has not eaten before. Learn more about the benefits of choosing Single Protein Diets HERE.
When food is offered as a dog’s main diet, it is important to check that it is labelled complete and balanced for the appropriate life stage.
The Prime100 SPD Slow Cooked range contains complete and balanced recipes enriched with prebiotics, vitamins and minerals. The range includes options for dogs at different life stages, from puppies through to seniors, although owners should always check the suitability guide and feeding directions for the individual recipe.
Prime100 SPD Slow Cooked dog food is packaged in a Tetra Recart carton. This keeps the unopened food shelf-stable without needing to be refrigerated, making it convenient to store at home or take away when travelling.
Once opened, the food should be kept in the refrigerator and used within the period shown on the packaging, generally around five days.
The carton is made from over 70% plant-based materials and, according to Prime100, has a lower climate impact than traditional wet food cans. Always check whether this type of packaging can be recycled through your local council or an appropriate collection program.
Soft, slow cooked dog food can also be used to add variety to your dog’s enrichment activities.
Depending on your dog’s needs and the feeding instructions, you can:
Remember to include food used for enrichment in your dog’s total daily allowance. Supervise your dog and choose toys that are safe for their size and chewing style.
The best food will depend on your dog’s age, activity level, health, body condition and dietary history.
When comparing slow cooked dog food, look for:
Dogs with diagnosed allergies, gastrointestinal disease, pancreatitis or other medical conditions should have their diet selected with guidance from a veterinarian.
Is slow cooked dog food good for senior dogs?
Its soft texture and appealing aroma may suit senior dogs that have difficulty chewing or have become less interested in food. However, senior dogs can have very different nutritional and medical needs, so choose a recipe suitable for your individual dog and seek veterinary advice if their appetite changes. Reading more about caring for your senior dog HERE.
A carefully chosen single protein diet may help manage suspected food sensitivities by limiting exposure to different animal proteins. For a proper elimination trial, your veterinarian should help select a protein your dog has not previously eaten and advise how long the trial should continue. Learn more about single protein diets HERE.
Can puppies eat Prime100 SPD Slow Cooked food?
The range includes recipes suitable for puppies, but not every formula will suit every puppy or breed size. Check the life-stage information on the individual pack, particularly when feeding a large or giant-breed puppy.
Does slow cooked dog food need to be refrigerated?
Unopened Prime100 SPD Slow Cooked cartons can be stored in the pantry. After opening, refrigerate the remaining food and use it within the time frame stated on the packaging.
Can I freeze slow cooked dog food?
Yes, small portions can be frozen inside appropriate enrichment toys or lick mats. Freezing can make the activity last longer, but your dog should always be supervised and the portion must be counted as part of their daily food intake.
Is Slow Cooked Dog Food Right for Your Dog?
Slow cooked dog food can provide a soft, aromatic and convenient meal for many dogs, including fussy eaters, seniors and dogs requiring a carefully chosen single protein.
Prime100 SPD Slow Cooked diets are available from pet specialty stores and veterinary clinics. Check the individual recipe to ensure it suits your dog’s age and nutritional needs, and speak with your veterinarian if your dog has food sensitivities or an existing health condition.
About the Author: Lara Shannon is a certified dog behaviourist and trainer, pet food nutrition specialist, Executive Producer and Host of Pooches at Play on Channel 10 and editor of Poochesatplay.com. Lara also runs her own dog training business in Melbourne’s Bayside area and is the Author of World of Dogs and Eat, Play, Love Your Dog
Psychodermatology in Dogs: The Itch-Stress Connection
Why Healthy Dog Food is so important
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