Are you looking for the best protein foods for dogs? Before starting a protein diet, it is important that you inform yourself properly, starting with knowing how much protein a dog needs per day, what effects excess protein has on dogs or what are the best protein dog foods on the market.
In this article on our site we will talk about dog food, focusing on the protein content, this way you can feed your dog in an optimal and complete way. But in addition, we will also show you some homemade protein foods for dogs and information about the most common supplements.
The protein diet for dogs
Dog nutrition is a fundamental aspect of dog care. We all want to feed our dogs with the best possible diet, therefore, it is extremely important that we inform ourselves regularly through specialized means and also following the advice of our veterinarian.
Currently, the protein diet for dogs has gained a lot of popularity, however, choosing the best protein dog food can be a confusing and overwhelming task. Fortunately, that's exactly what we'll explore in this article: we'll explain what a high-protein dog food is, how much to feed, and if it's actually a good choice for your four-legged friend.
In addition, we will go back from the past to the present, in this way we will solve all the doubts you may have about it, keep reading!
How much protein does a dog need?
We'll start by talking about the origins of natural dog food by asking if dogs really need a high-protein diet. We must know that, despite the misinformation and controversy that currently exists, dogs are animals facultative carnivores
That means they get most of the nutrients their bodies need from meat and other animal products. However, it should be noted that over the years and thanks to domestication, dogs have developed the ability to supplement meat with a omnivorous diet
Studies that have tried to find out what the optimal diet was for the ancestors of the dog have concluded that the diet contained the following proportions:
- Proteins (30%)
- Fat (63%)
- Carbs (7%)
We now know that the diet was based on a high percentage of fat and protein, with very low levels of carbohydrates. But in addition, it was discovered that most of the dog's energy reserves come mainly from fat and not so much from protein, as used to be believed.
This means that canids do not meet all their nutritional requirements on a high-protein diet, especially if the fat content is particularly low. However, based on other studies, it was concluded that, over time, the ancestors of the dog were decreasing fat intake and opting for higher amounts of protein, thereby equalizing the percentages
Some theories suggest that the evolution of the diet is due to the fact that, at first, the canids sought to consume large amounts of fat to prepare for famine and periods without food. Once these stages were completed, they changed to a slightly higher protein diet, in order to regain strength.
Effects of excess protein in dogs
The protein diet for dogs is only recommended when it also contains a high amount of fat, since dogs should not base their diet solely on protein consumption. Balance is key to he althy nutrition and it is for this reason that commercial feed is also known as " balanced food", although this is not always the case.
Protein dog foods that do not contain a lot of fat are only necessary and he althy for individuals who have certain he alth problems that justify such a diet, in addition to the fact that they must always be prescribed by a veterinaryAn example may be pancreatitis in dogs, a he alth problem that can be worsened by a high-fat diet, which would cause risk levels for the individual.
Varieties of foods with protein supplement for dogs
Are you looking for a particularly he althy option for your pet? Below we will detail the different commercial options that you will find on the market, in this way you can adjust the nutritional needs of your dog appropriately and thus create a perfect protein diet for dogs:
Grain Free Protein Dog Food
This could be one way to go, and is also a great option if your pup is allergic to grains and cereals. In some cases, it contains a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that help ensure complete nutrition.
We're talking grain-free, animal-based protein dry dog food. It should be noted that they are made without corn, wheat or soy protein. It also contains no artificial colors or preservatives.
Protein Dry Foods
This option with high protein levels is more convenient and practical, being much easier to transport and store (taking care with the product contamination). On the downside, it can be more difficult for puppies and older dogs to ingest.
Wet protein foods
As in the previous cases, it has a good percentage of protein. There are many brands of wet dog food that will help you provide your dog with the necessary moisture levels.
It could also be more palatable and easy to ingest for sick or older dogs. In general, they contain more protein and fat compared to the average dry food. However, it's harder to maintain once it's opened, which means more trips to the store. It is important to use these foods under the supervision of a professional, since if they are abused in inappropriate amounts, they can damage the stomach.
Homemade Protein Dog Food
You may be basing your dog's diet on homemade food or raw diets (BARF), in these cases, you can supplement their natural diet with the following foods:
- Egg (cooked)
- Cooked fish (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
- Meat (beef, chicken, turkey, liver, duck, venison)
- Cottage cheese (moderate portions)
Now you just have to choose and try which of these protein foods for dogs is the best option for your canine companion. All are excellent alternatives, however, we advise you to always consult your veterinarian.
