Nutrition Tips: Provide Best Protein To Your Dog

Creating a well-balanced diet plan for your pet dog is crucial to keep them healthy and happy. Protein-rich foods especially play a vital role in the growth and sustenance of your pet. The nutrient influences the building and maintaining of tissues and muscle and combines with fats to act as the primary energy source for their body. It should therefore be made available in the right amounts through diet.  

While the market is brimming with a variety of colourful, innovative, and tasty food options, it is important to evaluate their contribution to the protein needs of your pet. Understanding what type of protein best suits your dog will help you offer the best care to them. So here we present to you some of the best protein sources for your canine that you should consider including in their diet plan.  

How To Determine The Best Source?  

If you are looking for a simple way to introduce high-quality protein for your dog, you can shop pet life and explore options. But, before we explore the many different protein sources available for your pet, let us understand what we mean by the term ‘best protein’ and how to identify them.  

When we say the best protein for dogs, the implication is that the source delivers high-quality protein while expressing optimal bioavailability. There are many different forms of prime protein available, including plant protein, animal protein, grain, or legume protein. The digestibility of a protein influences its bioavailability in the body. Depending on the quality of the protein source, the type of cooking or processing, the digestibility factor could vary.  

The best protein source also indicates that the protein should not trigger an allergic reaction to your dog. Some pets may experience stomach issues from consuming certain types of animal protein. In this case, looking for competent alternatives with similar protein levels.  

Also, the protein should be enjoyable for your mates to consume correctly. Presenting even the best protein sources to your canine would have no impact unless they enjoy the meal and consume it entirely. So, here we will assess the many protein options available for pets on these factors to help you choose the best one for your furry mates.  

Best Protein For Your Dog  

Plant-Based Protein  

Plant sources like potatoes, oatmeal, quinoa, flaxseeds, barley, rice, peas are healthy ingredients for your dog that can provide good protein levels. You may also find several vet-approved plant-based protein products for canines that are healthy and vegan friendly. 

But note that although dog diets have evolved spectacularly from simple carnivorous diets, pets exposed to only plant-based proteins may experience deficiencies. It is primarily because plant sources carry considerably less digestible protein value that might create challenges in supporting their growth. In some cases, like soy, the ingredient might not be naturally suitable for your pet`s digestive system.  

Chicken Meat Meals And Eggs  

Chicken meat meals and eggs are two of the most common protein sources for dogs. These two are easy to prepare and widely desired by pets, making them wonderful additions to their meal plan. Also, eggs express high digestibility among dogs and are a viable economic option for your pet.  

But remember that overconsumption of these two foods could increase the chances of obesity. Eggs are among the top 10 most common food allergens for dogs and could create trouble, especially for pups or older dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Also, while processed foods offer healthy proteins, the high cooking temperatures might render most nutrients null. So keep that in mind while choosing the meal.  

Turkey And Chicken  

Next to eggs, fresh meats like turkey and chicken express high bioavailability to cater efficiently to your pet`s protein needs. High-quality meats, predominantly containing flesh and skin, can positively impact the protein intake of your dog. They are also a tasty choice for your pets and quick to prepare.  

One disadvantage with chicken is that some pets may experience an allergic reaction to the meat. In that case, you can mix up other high-quality meats like a duck to provide the required proteins. Also, switching between different protein sources once every few months can be helpful to keep allergic responses in check.  

Beef And Lamb  

Beef, lamb, sheep meat lie right below turkey and chicken in terms of bioavailability. They are premium quality protein sources for your pets but can be slightly expensive compared to the other options listed here.  

Beef is a popular ingredient in commercial dog food as it introduces competent levels of protein to your furry friends. Also, lambs are a wonderful choice for pups suffering from sensitive stomach issues as it offers exceptional digestibility. Keep in mind that both ingredients may trigger allergic reactions in some pets and should be chosen carefully.  

Ocean Fish  

 Fish are an impeccable source of protein for dogs as they also carry omega fatty acids. Apart from supporting their growth, fish can also improve skin quality and reduce challenges like shedding, making them a superior choice.  

Toxins in fish are growing into a challenge for choosing it as a primary source of protein. So make careful considerations about the quality of ocean fish you provide your dogs to reduce exposure to harmful substances.  

Conclusion 

Ensuring your canine consumes a healthy plate every day is essential for their health and wellbeing. Introducing essential nutrients like proteins through safe and effective sources can support growth, improve strength, and enhance overall wellness. So, keep these effective protein sources in mind while creating a diet plan for your pet to help them receive its ample benefits.