How can I add protein to my dog s diet

10 Healthy Dog Food Additions to Improve a Dry Food Diet

Americas most popular dog food is kibble or dry food, which, because it is convenient and affordable, accounts for more than 60% of all dog food sales. Unfortunately, dry dog food is far from perfect.

The good news is, that you can vastly improve a dry diet by making simple additions of cooked or raw foods, says Mary Straus, long-time pet-food researcher and owner of the DogAware.com website. Todays consumers have many dog food choices, Straus says, but kibble is the diet that most benefits from enhancement since it is so highly processed and because it tends to be high in carbohydrates, which are needed for the extrusion process.

Straus recommends adding animal-source foods such as eggs, meat, or dairy rather than plant foods such as grains, legumes, and starchy vegetables. Most dry foods are already high in carbohydrates, she explains, and dogs have no nutritional need for carbohydrates. In contrast, animal protein supports the immune system and central nervous system, contributes to wound healing, helps build lean muscle, and is required for skin and coat health.

NUTRITIOUS ADDITIONS

In general, added foods should represent only a small portion of the calories your dog consumes. Replacing more than 25% of the calories from a commercial diet with fresh foods, treats, and chews risks seriously unbalancing the overall diet, unless care is taken to balance the added portion, Straus explains. She offers the following guidelines to help improve your dogs health while adding enjoyment and variety:

1.Eggs. Feed eggs raw or lightly scrambled, soft-boiled, or hard-boiled. Whole raw eggs are fine, says Straus, as the yolks contain plenty of biotin to make up for what raw egg whites destroy, but the whites are more easily digested when cooked.

Eggs are one of the healthiest and easiest additions to make. Dogs weighing 40 pounds or more can handle a whole egg, so Id recommend half an egg (or a whole egg every other day) for dogs weighing 20 to 40 pounds and proportionately less for smaller dogs.

2.Muscle meat (including heart) and organ meats. Add any kind of meat, such as chicken, turkey, or lean beef, either ground or in chunks that are small enough to prevent choking, served raw or lightly cooked (never feed cooked bones).

While liver and other organ meats provide beneficial nutrients, Straus no longer recommends feeding fresh or freeze-dried beef liver to kibble-fed dogs. This is because most commercial foods are already high in copper, she explains, and excessive copper in the diet can lead to copper storage disease.

For organ meats other than beef liver, she recommends introducing small amounts. Organ meats like heart and poultry gizzard are nutritionally similar to muscle meats and can be fed in greater quantity, though some dogs might experience digestive upset if too much is fed at one time.

3.Fish. Canned sardines (preferably packed in water rather than oil), jack mackerel, and pink salmon are wonderful additions, says Straus, because of their beneficial fatty acids and trace minerals.

One small sardine weighing less than half an ounce provides 100 to 150 mg of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, she says, and I recommend 3 to 10 mg EPA/DHA per pound of body weight daily.

Dont feed raw salmon or trout from the Pacific Northwest (California to Alaska) because it may contain a parasite that is fatal to dogs. This may include other salt-water fish that spawn in fresh water such as smelt, sturgeon, shad, and striped bass.

4.Yogurt and kefir. Fermented dairy products that are homemade or manufactured with added probiotics and are free of sugar or xylitol can help with digestive issues. Whole-milk yogurt or kefir is fine unless your dog needs a low-fat diet. (See Dogs and Dairy Products, WDJ May 2022.)

5.Cottage cheese or ricotta cheese. Most dogs enjoy cottage cheese and ricotta, and if the milk used to make them comes from grass-fed cattle, especially A2 milk or goats milk, these protein-rich cheeses are easily digested.

6.Canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix). This traditional remedy for diarrhea and constipation, is an all-purpose digestive aid. Feed small amounts, such as 1 teaspoon plain canned or pureed cooked pumpkin per 10 pounds of body weight once or twice per day.

7.Cooked or pureed vegetables. Because dogs dont chew their food enough to break down cell walls, whole raw vegetables dont provide much nutritional value. Vegetables pureed in a food processor, juicer, or blender are more digestible; cooked vegetables can be digested without having to be pureed.

Recommended cooked/pureed plants include carrots, celery, all types of greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, zucchini, asparagus, turnips, and parsnips. Because they can be toxic to dogs, onions are not recommended and, if your dog has any symptoms of arthritis or inflammation, avoid plants from the nightshade family, which includes potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, tomatillos, and goji berries.

8.Fruit. Most dogs enjoy bananas, apples, melons, pears, blueberries, and other fresh, ripe fruits. Avocados should be avoided or fed in moderation, says Straus, as avocados are very high in fat and calories. Grapes, raisins, and fruit seeds and pits are also potentially hazardous. The main problem with fruit is its sugar content, which is why its a good idea to offer small rather than large amounts to your dog.

9.Raw green tripe. You can buy bleached white honeycomb tripe at your supermarket, but while your dog might be interested, that portion of a cows stomach wont provide much nutritional value. Your dog would greatly prefer green tripe, which is untreated and greenish brown in color and smells terrible, at least to us humans. Raw green tripe from grass-fed cattle is highly recommended.

While some raw feeders serve their dogs entire meals of just green tripe, if you feed a dry diet, you should limit this treat to a maximum of 25% or less of your dogs daily caloric intake.

10.Recreational bones. For many dogs, an after-dinner raw bone is an ideal dessert. It can clean teeth, help prevent gum disease, and provide chewing pleasure and jaw exercise.

However, bones can cause broken teeth, especially if their size and shape allow dogs to get them between their molars and crunch down. Marrow bones are a particular risk. Knuckle bones may be safer because of their shape, especially for large dogs and aggressive chewers. Bone shards can cause serious issues if swallowed.

For best results, feed only raw, fresh bones and remove them once the tissues connected to them have been eaten and before they dry out. Cooked or dry bones can splinter and are not recommended.

For More Information

For those who want an easy way to upgrade their dogs diet by feeding fresh foods, Mary Straus recommends the following books. See also Straus website: dogaware.com.

Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet by Steve Brown includes guidelines for feeding fresh foods one day a week to dogs who otherwise eat a commercial diet. His book See Spot Live Longer is available in print and in shortened form as an eBook.

Chow: Simple Ways to Share the Foods You Love with the Dogs You Love by Rick Woodford describes foods that can be added to your dogs bowl. Feed Your Best Friend Better: Easy, Nutritious Meals for Dogs by the same author (revised in 2021) provides cooked recipes for different situations, including feeding half commercial and half homemade.

6 Best Protein Sources for Dogs (Vet Approved)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Dogs can eat both meat and plants, but they descended from carnivore species that thrive on high-protein diets. You might see high-protein dog food recipes advertised in marketing, or maybe you just want your dog to have a protein boost. Many owners are even trying their hands at homemade and raw diet recipes.

So, no matter your reason for delving into protein-rich ingredients, what are your options?Lets find out all about protein for your pooch.

Why Do Dogs Need Protein?

Dogs require animal protein to survive and thrive. It is the single most important nutritional component in their diet. Animal proteins, or complete proteins, carry amino acids that develop your dogs skin, muscles, and joints so their bodies can be fit and fully functional.

Homemade vs Commercial Diets

Commercial diets have been developed to ensure each recipe fits the necessary nutritional profiles for canines. Homemade recipes require individual recipes, ingredient measuring, and supplementation to achieve this.

Commercial Diets

Commercial diets are created by a group of dietary professionals and manufacturers. Each recipe varies slightly depending on brand and target nutrition. Protein content in a commercial recipe should be at least 18% protein for maintenance.

However, some adult dog food recipes for high-energy pooches can go higher than 40%. Its crucial to deliver appropriate protein levels to your dog based on life stage, age, weight, and activity level.

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Homemade Recipes

There is so much control with homemade diets. You know exactly what your dog is putting in its mouth without having to worry about ingredients that you cant pronounce. And regardless of what a bag says, you know just how much protein they have in their dish, too.

One crucial aspect of homemade diets is that you must check with your veterinarian. If you miss even one key component, you can throw off balance in the recipe, meaning your dog isnt getting the correct nutrients.

Incorrect measurements can lead to malnutrition or overnutrition.

The 6 Best Protein Sources for Dogs

If youre looking for protein supplements to add to your dogs diet, you want to know what all your options are. If youre taking your hand at recipe creation, knowing the most beneficial sources helps produce a well-balanced diet with the approval of your vet.

Here are some excellent protein sources and what they do for your poochs health.

1. Eggs

According to the American Kennel Club, eggs are a terrific protein source that is safe and healthy for your dogs. Eggs dont have the required nutritional content to be an everyday meal, but they make a great topper or standalone snack your pooch will love.

Your pooch can enjoy eggs from several birds, including:

• Chicken eggs
• Ducks eggs
• Quail eggs

Eggs are packed full of valuable nutrients that improve several aspects of canine health, including 6 grams of protein per egg. Some vitamins and minerals include:

• Omega fatty acidsthese fatty acids improve skin, coat, and nails.
• Riboflavinthis vitamin aids in the conversion of nutrients into fuel, increasing energy.
• Folatethis vitamin increases red blood cell production.
• Ironiron is needed for hemoglobin synthesis.
• Seleniumthis mineral is essential for thyroid function and DNA reproduction.
• Vitamins B12this vitamin protects nerves and cells.
• Vitamin Athis vitamin aids in immunity and vision health.

We should note that while eggs can be very beneficial to many canines, some might develop sensitivities to it. Also, you should never offer unpasteurized raw eggs to your dog, as they can still carry Salmonella.

2. Fish

Fish is a wholesome protein to add to your dogs diet anytime. Certain species of fish are high in protein but low in fat, so these can be perfect protein-booster options for dogs that need a moderate-calorie diet.

Some yummy fish that work well as protein boosters include:

Fish is packed with powerful nutrients that improve overall healthnot just for the sake of protein. Some important nutrients in fish include:

• Phosphorushelps the body develop strong bones and a healthy metabolism.
• Omega-3 fatty acidaids in healthy coat, skin, and joints.
• Ironis used to synthesize hemoglobin in the body.
• Zincaids in immune system function and metabolism.
• Iodinerequired for optimal thyroid function.

Some dogs might have an allergy to fish, so if they have any adverse reactionsstop serving it all together. Your vet can check to verify a fish allergy. Also, fish should never be fed raw to a dog.

3. Poultry

You can also steam or cook several poultry selections for your dog. Poultry offers a lean, white meat option that is packed with high quantities of protein.

Types of poultry include:

Poultry like chicken and turkey are excellent meat sources for your dogs. It has less fat content than beef and other red meat, so its a great option for dogs who require weight management. Some goodies in poultry include:

• Phosphorusworks together with calcium to help preserve the integrity of bones and teeth.
• Potassiumaids in the function of the heart, nerves, and muscles.
• Pantothenic acidhelps your dogs body break down fats.
• Cholineis a precursor of nervous system chemicals.
• Ironis necessary for hemoglobin production.

Some dogs might be very sensitive to chicken, turkey, or duck protein, so make sure to watch for any allergic responses.

4. Venison

If youre a hunter stocked with fresh game, you might be able to offer your dog some fresh venison. It is a hormone-free, excellent selection for at-home meals and snacks.

Types of venison include:

Venison is a lean, healthy red meat that can nourish your dogs system. It might be hard to come by if you dont hunt yourself, but it is a healthy alternative to some fatty red meats.

• Ironis used to synthesize hemoglobin in the body.
• Phosphorousworks with calcium to maintain bones and muscles.
• Potassiumaids in nerve and muscle function.
• Niacinhelps with digestive functions and overall skin health.

It is considered a novel protein, meaning your dog likely hasnt had an introduction yet. This factor makes it a terrific option for dogs who have allergies to common protein sources.

5. Red Meat

Most red meats are valuable and nutritious for your pooch. However, its best not to use these menu options as main protein sources due to their higher fat content. Leaner cuts might be more suitable.

Some good red meats to add to your dog's diet include:

• Lamb or mutton
• Beef
• Bison

Red meat is packed with solid protein, creating a firm foundation for muscle growth and joint support. Some excellent nutritional aspects of red meat include:

• Ironthe precursor of hemoglobin.
• Phosphorushelps the body develop strong bones and a healthy metabolism.
• Potassiumaids in nerve and muscle function.
• Seleniumnourishes areas related to thyroid function.
• Zincaids in metabolism and immunity.

Red meat can have incredible health benefits, especially when included in a complete and balanced diet. Novel proteins like bison are excellent protein sources for pets with allergies compared to other, more common protein sources.

6. Plant-Based Proteins

In addition to meat-based protein selections, you can sporadically offer plant-based proteins. Dogs cannot thrive on plant-based proteins exclusively, as they are not complete proteins that include all the essential amino acids that dogs need to consume through their diet. Additionally, there is an ongoing investigation on whether the inclusion of large quantities of legumes in grain-free commercial dog food diets is responsible for reports of an increase in dilated cardiomyopathy cases in dogs.

Some plant-based protein types you can feed your dog include:

Since plant-based proteins are currently under investigation, we recommend only feeding them to your dog occasionally, in moderation.

• Fiberaids healthy digestion.

Some plant-based proteins can trigger food allergies and sensitivities in some dogs. Check with your vet beforehand.

Vegan or Vegetarian Dogs: What Does It Mean for Health?

If youre an environmentally conscious person who consumes or uses no animal products yourself, you might want to give your dog a vegan diet, too. But is this really a positive thing to do for their overall health? Its a huge decision to make for owners in your shoes.

Studies claim that although recipes can be created that are vegetarian or vegan, this is certainly not the most appropriate diet for your dog. You have to be incredibly careful when you offer diets devoid of animal protein.

Even though you might have hang-ups or reservations about buying animal products, allowing your dog to have their natural diet is likely best. However, if your moral conscience cannot allow that, you should speak with your vet about the best vegetarian or vegan foods for canines.

Final Thoughts

Protein is a highly beneficial and necessary ingredient that makes up a majority of your dogs diet. It is the base of commercial and homemade dog foods alike.

Now, you know just what kinds of protein sources you can serve your pooch. Every animal or plant-based protein has nutrient value to offer. If you are making your homemade recipes, run your recipe by your vet to ensure optimal nutrition.

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