Best Protein For Dogs
Is there such a thing as too much protein? Is it better to feed your dog a variety of protein sources, or to stick with just one, single protein source? Whatâs the difference between plant proteins and meat proteins? Is a vegetarian diet good for dogs? What is the best protein for dogs?
In this article, we discuss the different kinds of protein available for dogs and rank them according to their nutritional value. Since 30-70% of your dogs diet is going to be protein, it may as well come from a healthy, quality source.
Well help you make the right when it comes to the right kind of protein for your dogs individual needs.
Wellness Simple Natural Fit For Dogs With Allergies
First Five Ingredients:
Pet parents often neglect salmon, which is an excellent source of protein in dog food. The Wellness Natural Formula is perfect for canines suffering from skin conditions and allergies.
The food doesnt contain artificial flavors or colors. On the other hand, salmon oil will provide omega fatty acids, ideal for skin and coat.
Veggies, such as potato, will satisfy starchy cravings your furry companion may have. While some puppies love eating corn, its not a good idea to feed them in large portions. Thats why the product doesnt contain corn, wheat, or soy.
Probiotics will promoteexcellent digestion, and help your best friend absorb nutrients.
The bottom line!
Nutrition is essential to a dogs well-being! However, with this perfectly combined mixture of vegetables and proteins, you will improve digestion, and eliminate allergies.
Why Does A Dog Need Protein In Their Diet
While too much protein can be a cause of health issues like those listed above, it is essential for a dogs diet.
Protein is vital in allowing a dogs body to function properly because it contains vital amino acids which helps hair, skin, muscle development.
Dogs cannot store up protein in their body like they can with fats and so they must be provided with protein daily.
This is especially true for those who work like assistance dogs, sheep dogs or police dogs.
If you feed your dog too little protein it can lead to weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.
You May Like: Iams Dog Food Henderson Nc
A General Guideline For Preparing Homemade Dog Food
My DIY dog food recipe is more of a general guideline, rather than an exact meal plan that I follow each week. My dogs diet changes the same way ours does, depending on what we do and what we buy or grow.
However, we almost always stay with this basic formula:
- 50 percent cooked protein
- 25 percent cooked complex carbohydrates
- Fats and supplements
- Eggshells
Protein is always meat and usually chicken, though weve also used turkey, pork, and beef. We feed any and all parts of the animals, but most commonly, we saute chicken breasts or chicken thighs in coconut oil and ground turmeric.
Coconut oil has a host of health benefits for dogs, such as improving the skin and coat, increasing energy, aiding digestion, reducing allergic reactions, promoting wound healing, preventing yeast and fungal infections, and supporting arthritis or ligament problems.
Turmeric has long been studied for its powerful medicinal properties, including its use as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
We add it to the coconut oil since it is fat-soluble, and use it to support our pugs joint health.
Speaking of dark meat, we feed thighs and breasts interchangeably. While well remove the skin from poultry and trim off excessive fat from red meat, we dont worry about buying the leanest meat possible for our dogs.
A little fat is necessary for a well-rounded diet.
They tend to be the leftovers in our produce bin, so we never have to buy, say, a whole head of cauliflower just for the dogs.
Eating Oily Processed Foods
Dogs should not be eating human foods, especially if they are oily or processed. Oil is hard enough for us humans to digest. Dogs that consume oil can develop diarrhea amongst other stomach and digestive health problems.
Processed foods are tough on your dogs stomach, especially if they are a dog with a short or flat face. Dogs with a flat face and short esophagus struggle to eat and keep down their food because of their size. Their esophagus is too short, and any food that does not agree can deal with indigestion or rise up. If your dog has diarrhea, there is a good chance they are also throwing up.
Don’t Miss: Pedigree Dentastix Recall
What Causes Sensitive Stomachs In Dogs
Before you start searching for a better food for your dog, you need to figure out what is causing your dogs sensitive stomach. Some dogs, just like some people, are sensitive to certain food ingredients. For others, a sensitive stomach could be a sign of a more serious problem. Make an appointment with your vet to have your dog examined. While this might seem like investing a lot of money up front, remember that dog food is also expensive. You might actually save money in the long run by visiting your vet, and while youre there you can ask for her opinion about your dogs diet. Once you have ruled out serious conditions like stomach cancer, it is time to examine the other possible causes of sensitive stomachs in dogs. There are a wide variety of food items that certain dogs have trouble tolerating. Other dogs are sensitive to certain proteins. Another possibility is that your dogs food is lacking something, like sufficient fiber, vitamins, and minerals, or contains too much of something, like fat. Your dogs food might not even be the problem. If your dog has a habit of getting into the trash or eats a lot of treats and table scraps, then it could be something else causing his upset tummy.
Chicken Liver: Is It Good For Dogs
In the recent times, commercial dog foods have been brought under scrutiny and even called back for various reasons.
So, it is always good to look up some alternatives to dog foods.
After all, a good diet ensures a long and healthy life.
Chicken is one ingredient that is commonly found in dog food and contains Vitamin B, Vitamin A, iron, zinc, copper, niacin, phosphorus, etc.
The chicken liver is an amazing source of omega 3 and six fatty acids and is perfectly safe for your dog to consume.
In fact, chicken liver is beneficial for your furry friends vision and can help if your doggy suffers from blood or essence deficiency.
However, theres one thing that you should keep in mind.
The liver is rich in nutrients and can cause loose stools if you feed too much of it to your dog.
My recommendation is that you start by feeding half a tablespoon of chicken to your dog once in every few days and monitor his stool/ Gradually increase the frequency if alls okay.
Since the liver is high in copper, you shouldnt feed it to your dog if heâs got copper issues.
Its better to ask a vet first.
You May Like: Is Purina Dog Food Good For My Dog
Help Your Dog Feel Better
Patrick Mahaney VMD, CVA, CVJ suggests some ways to soothe your puppys insides:
- Keep your puppy hydrated with water or ice cubes to lick.
- Fast for 8, 12 or 24 hours while monitoring your puppy closely.
- Introduce bland foods like white rice, boiled chicken, vegetable broth.
- Try fiber-rich foods like cooked sweet potato or canned pumpkin to get stool back to normal.
- Give probiotics to replenish your puppys gut health. They come in a variety of forms like powders, capsules, chews, and yogurt or kefir.
- Prebiotic foods nourish and promote growth of good bacteria living in the colon. Finely ground psyllium husk is also a prebiotic.
- Ask your veterinarian about Rx Clay, which calms down and detoxifies the gastrointestinal tract.
Lamb Vs Chicken Vs Salmon In Dog Food: Is Lamb Good For Dogs
Chicken vs lamb dog food, which one is better? Is lamb good for dogs? What about lamb vs salmon dog food? Most Doodle parents want to provide their furry family member the best possible nutrition. But where do we begin?
In this article, were going to learn more about lamb, chicken, and salmon in dog food, and see how they compare to each other. Weve also listed the best lamb, chicken, and salmon dog food products, so lets dig in!
Also Check: Do You Subtract Protein From Carbs On Keto
Read Also: Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dog Food 28.6 Lb
Can Too Much Food Cause Diarrhea In Dogs
Top Causes of Dog Diarrhea There are many reasons why a dog may develop loose stools, but most cases may be attributed to one of these 12 triggers: Dietary indiscretion: Eating too much, eating garbage, or spoiled food. Theres actually a name for it in veterinary circlesgarbage toxicosis or garbage gut.Nov 20, 2021.
How Do I Feed A Bland Diet
Bland diets help calm the revolt going on inside your pets stomach and intestines. Low in fiber, bland diets slow stool production so the urge to go to the bathroom is less frequent, easing diarrhea. These diets are also low in fat, are gentler on the stomach, and reduce vomiting. Moreover, they are highly digestible and reduce peristalsis giving the GI tract a needed rest.
You May Like: Are Luna Bars Bad For You
Recommended Reading: Can You Buy Dog Food With Foodstamps
How To Prevent Diarrhea When Changing Your Dogs Food
It has been shown that as the dog goes through different changes in their life, diet change is necessary to meet changes in their nutritional requirements. It has also been discussed how diet change opens the risk of a dog getting adverse food reactions causing gastrointestinal signs like vomiting or diarrhea. How, then, are we supposed to meet changing nutritional requirements without risking gastrointestinal issues?
Most, if not all, vomiting and diarrhea cases due to diet change happen when the switch is done abruptly. Sudden change in the dogs diet causes improper digestion. However, this can be easily avoided by transitioning from one diet to another gradually. The slow transition allows the gastrointestinal system to adjust and produce necessary enzymes suitable for digesting the newly-introduced diet. Proper change in diet is usually a week-long transition and follows this process:
Days 1-2: 25% new diet and 75% old diet
Days 3-4: 50% new diet and 50% old diet
Days 5-6: 75% new diet and 25% old diet
Day 7: 100% new diet
This week-long gradual diet transition is often enough to prevent vomiting and diarrhea from occurring. Some dogs that have a very sensitive stomach may require a longer transition, but the same principle applies. By gradually transitioning diets, especially at times when diet change is needed to make sure nutritional requirements are met, we significantly reduce the risk of adverse food reactions and prevent signs of diarrhea and vomiting in dogs.
Does Overfeeding A Dog Cause Loose Stools
Yes, as explained by Dr. Danny Tufaro, a veterinarian based in New York City, USA. A common symptom of overfeeding is normal or good stool consistency in the morning, then it gets softer later in the day. According to Dr. Tufaro, this is a very common issue, especially with the more caloric dense dog food on the market.
Pet nutritionist Ruth Hatten offers more tips on the topic. If your dogs poo is mostly firm but only occasionally soft, there is no cause for concern. You should bring your dog to the vet for a better diagnosis if the poop doesn’t firm up after 48 hours and any of the symptoms below are present.
- Very loose stool for more than 48 hours
- Blood in the poop
- Dogs energy level drops suddenly
- Vomiting
- A sore or sensitive belly
- Blackish stool
Also Check: Purina Dog Food Good
What Are The Main Causes Of Diarrhea In Dogs
There are endless things that could be causing your dog to have diarrhea.
From intestinal infections and viruses to worms and eating garbage, diarrhea can come from several sources.
Stress is also a significant factor in stomach upset, so if your dog has recently travelled or had an ordeal at the vets, this could be the cause.
Transitioning To Homemade Dog Food
Most dogs dont have a problem making the switch to homemade food. If yours is prone to digestive issues, start slowly by mixing a little bit of the homemade food with the commercial food.
Over the course of a week or two, gradually increase the amount of homemade food while decreasing the commercial food.
If your dog vomits or has diarrhea, try introducing only a couple of new ingredients at a time until their systems are well adjusted to the fresh diet.
For dogs with health issues, please consult with a veterinarian if you arent sure what kind of supplements are needed. Use your best judgment, the way you would when feeding yourself or your family.
Don’t Miss: Darwins Dog Food
How To Find A High
The Internet is full of advice about the best food for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Unfortunately, most of that advice is not founded on solid research. This makes it difficult to navigate forums, blogs, and web articles. The dog food companys website can also be misleading after all, they are trying to sell a product. This is why the best place to start your search is with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist. If you have not already consulted with your vet about your dogs sensitive stomach, now is the time. You want to rule out anything serious before you start experimenting with different foods on your own. Your vet might be able to suggest a few brands of dog food that she prefers and can give you an idea of problematic ingredients and nutritional information to look out for as you start your search. Most pet owners also do their own research. Look for articles and journals written by veterinarians and Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionists. You want the best for your dog, so consult the best sources the experts. Try to remain a little skeptical as you search for the best food for dogs with sensitive stomachs. If a company is advertising a miracle diet that sounds too good to be true, it probably is .
Viral And Bacterial Infections
Similar to parasites, bacterial and viral infections can attack your dogs gut and cause an upset stomach. Depending on the type of infection, your dog may be able to get over it on their own or they may need treatment by a vet.
Coronavirus is a very common viral infection in dogs that causes liquid, yellow-orange diarrhea as well as vomiting, lethargy, and, occasionally, fever. Most adult dogs wont show any symptoms at all and those that do usually get over them in a few days. Puppies, especially those already infected with other pathogens are most at risk for complications from this virus.
Rotavirus is another common virus that can cause loose stools in dogs. As with other common gut viruses, healthy adult dogs are unlikely to be affected. Young and stressed dogs will experience watery diarrhea and possible dehydration.
Puppies may be more severely affected by bacteria and viruses due to their immature immune systems.
Bacterial infections such as Campylobacter and Helicobacter are also common in dogs and can cause diarrhea in those with stressed immune systems. Most dogs also carry the salmonella bacteria in their gut but only those who are stressed or ill will show symptoms of infection.
If you suspect a viral or bacterial infection is the cause of your dogs upset stomach and they are also exhibiting other symptoms, it is best to get them to a vet right away.
Also Check: Can You Buy Dog Food On Food Stamps
Clean Up And Get A Sample
When you clean up the diarrhea, look to see whether theres any blood or mucus. You may want to place it inside a plastic baggie to give to your veterinarian as a fecal sample. The fresher the better.
If youre not going to the vet right away, you can place inside your refrigerator for a few hours. Double bag it to ensure it doesnt contaminate your refrigerator or food.
Make sure to disinfect the area when you clean up the diarrhea.
Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition Dog Food Best Value
The packaging might give you a headache, but Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition may also help solve your dogs stomachache and at a price that wont hurt your pocketbook either. In fact, we believe it to be the best dog food for diarrhea for the money.
It uses easy-to-digest grains like rice and barley theres also oatmeal and beet pulp, both of which can keep your dog regular without making them too regular.
The protein relies heavily on animal meals . This gives your dog plenty of nutritional variety, while also loading them up with glucosamine for joint health.
There are quite a few high-quality fruits and veggies inside each bag, including cranberries, blueberries, and kelp. That gives your dog plenty of important vitamins and nutrients from natural sources.
We would have preferred to see lean cuts of meat in addition to the animal meal, but that would likely have driven the price up. The salt content is also higher than wed like.
Still, if you need something thats both inexpensive and gentle on your dogs stomach, Gentle Giants Canine Nutrition is an excellent choice.
If you have a little pup thats having trouble keeping food down, Simply Nourish Limited Ingredient Diet is a great way to start them off on the right paw.
It relies heavily on salmon, which is both gentle on stomachs and excellent for developing systems. Salmon is full of omega fatty acids, which are important for brain development and immune system function.
Recommended Reading: Can I Get Dog Food With Food Stamps