Protein is absolutely essential for your dog's health, but with so many choices out there, it can be tough to know which one is best for your pet. Since protein makes up a significant portion of your dog's diet – somewhere between 30% and 70% – it's important to choose a healthy, high-quality source. 

We're going to explore all the protein choices in dog food so you can find the perfect fit for your dog's unique needs.

What Makes Protein Essential For Dogs?

Your dog's health depends on a good supply of protein, it helps them stay strong, builds and maintains their muscles, keeps their coat shiny, strengthens their skin and nails, and even boosts their immune system. But how does it work?

When your dog eats protein, their body breaks it down into little building blocks called amino acids. These amino acids are like small LEGOs that their body uses to build and repair all their important parts. Without enough protein, their body might start taking these LEGOs from their muscles and other tissues, which is not good!

To make sure your dog stays healthy, they need a steady supply of protein in their diet. If they aren't getting enough, you might see a decrease in your dog's energy levels, a dull coat, and a weaker immune system, making them more susceptible to getting sick.

Best Protein Sources for Healthy Dogs

These protein sources are top-notch because they have a high biological value, which means they contain all ten essential amino acids that dogs need to stay healthy. If you see these ingredients in the top 6 of a dog food label, you're likely looking at high-quality dog food.

Chicken:

Chicken is a great source of protein for dogs – it's fresh, readily available, and packed with nutrients. However, it's also one of the more common allergens for dogs. This is mostly because it's so widely used in pet food.

To help prevent your dog from developing a chicken allergy, consider switching up their main protein source every few months. And if you have a puppy, it's a good idea to introduce them to a variety of protein sources in their first year. This helps reduce the risk of allergies later on.

Lamb:

If you're looking for a protein that's packed with nutrients and supports your dog's overall health, lamb is a fantastic choice. It's a great source of iron and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for a healthy coat, brain, and immune system. On top of that, lamb provides the right balance of dietary fats that your dog needs to thrive.

One of the biggest advantages of lamb is that it's often a good alternative for dogs with food allergies. Many dogs are allergic to common proteins like beef or chicken, but lamb is a less common protein source, making it less likely to cause allergies. And we’re pretty sure most dogs would agree – lamb is delicious!

The only downside is that lamb can be a bit more expensive than other protein sources. But if your dog has allergies or enjoys the flavor, it's definitely worth considering.

Duck:

You might think duck is a fancy food, something you only eat on special occasions. But believe it or not, duck is a great choice for your dog too! It's a lean source of protein that's rich in iron, and it's often overlooked as a food for dogs.

Duck is packed with nutrients, like healthy omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and essential minerals like phosphorus, potassium, zinc, and selenium.

And if your dog is allergic to chicken or other common proteins, ducks can be a great alternative.

Don't forget about duck necks and giblets either – these are delicious and nutritious treats that can add variety and extra nutrients to your dog's diet.

Eggs:

Eggs are a top-notch source of protein for dogs! They have a perfect score for protein quality, which means they're super digestible and packed with nutrients, making them a fantastic addition to any dog's diet. You'll often find eggs as an ingredient in many dog and cat foods – they're in all our Healthy Dogma PetMix recipes and are considered an excellent protein. Also, they're a relatively affordable option.

Fish:

Salmon, ocean fish, and other named fish are a great source of protein for dogs, especially those with sensitive or dry skin. The oils and omega-3 fatty acids in fish can nourish and moisturize the skin, helping to prevent flaking and shedding.

Keep in mind that some fish can contain high levels of toxins. So, it's always a good idea to rotate your dog's protein sources if possible. This helps to ensure that they get a variety of nutrients and reduces their exposure to any potential toxins.

Beef:

Dogs often love beef, and it's a protein that's easy for them to digest. If you're looking for a readily available and familiar option, beef is an excellent choice. And remember that other ruminants like lamb, sheep, venison, and bison are also high-quality protein sources. While they might be a bit more expensive, they can be a good choice if you're looking for something a little different.

Rabbit:

It's a lean protein, packed with nutrients, and a good source of vitamin B12, which helps with energy levels, healthy fats that support joint health, and a shiny coat.

You might have heard about “warming” and “cooling” foods in Traditional Chinese Medicine. This theory suggests that every food has properties that can affect the balance of the body. TCM divides foods into cooling (Yin), warming (Yang), and neutral categories. The idea is that you can use food to help balance your dog's body temperature and overall health. For example, you might feed a dog who tends to be hot, a more cooling food, or a dog who tends to be cold a more warming food.

It's important to note that while TCM is an interesting approach to health, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian for advice on your dog's diet.

How Much Protein Does My Dog Need?

Your dog needs a balanced diet with a variety of meats and vegetables, but protein is a key player. They need around one gram of protein per pound of their ideal body weight each day. So, if your dog should weigh 30 pounds, they need 30 grams of protein, even if they're currently a bit heavier.

The amount of protein your dog needs in their diet changes with age. Adult dogs typically need 18-25% protein, while growing puppies need closer to 29%.

Remember, every dog is different! It's always best to talk to your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's diet. They can give you personalized advice based on your dog's age, breed, and activity level.

If you're interested in learning more about rotating proteins for your dog, we recommend checking out our last blog post What are the Benefits of Rotating Proteins for Dogs?