Dogs are classified as omnivores. Though they need protein rich diet, but they can also survive on a diet of plant origin. However, for their optimum health conditions, their diet should have source of animal protein, i.e., meat.
Lack of same can cause:
- Obesity
- Skin and coat issues
- Poor immunity
- Lethargy
What Protein Does in a Dog’s Body
Protein is the basic building blocks for:
- Cells
- Tissues
- Organs
- Enzymes
- Hormones
- Antibodies
They are essential for:
- Growth
- Maintenance
- Reproduction
Can be found in mainly two sources:
Animal based
- Meats such as chicken, lamb, beef, fish, eggs* etc. (one with complete amino acid profiles)
Plant based
- Vegetables
- Lentils
- Cereals etc. (considered incomplete proteins)
Importance of Protein
Protein are also the most abundant component of dog’s body (significantly higher than humans). They need proteins to produce and maintain:
- Hair
- Nails
- Tendons
- Cartilage
- All connective tissues that support the rest of the tissues and organs of the body
When necessary (such as when food supply is low), they can also use proteins to produce energy.
Hence, adequate protein content is important for their growth and functioning including but not limited to:
- Muscle development and strength
- Functioning of immune system
- Production of hormones
- Adequate volume of blood
- Injury repair and prevention
Protein Guidelines (AAFCO Standards)
The American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets guidelines for the types and amounts of nutrients dogs need in their foods.
- Adult dogs: no less than 18% protein
- Puppies / lactating females: minimum 22% protein
Working dogs such as military/ police dogs, herding dogs etc. who work hard every day or who are under stress may need more.
Dogs recuperating from injuries or surgery may need more protein as well, to repair muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Digestible Protein
Some proteins are just more digestible than others.
Nutritionists measure digestibility by:
- Feeding protein to dogs
- Measuring protein in feces
- Difference shows how much was absorbed
This is called digestible protein.
Amino Acids & Protein Structure
Proteins are made up of amino acids linked in a chain.
When they eat:
- Protein is broken into shorter chains of amino acids called polypeptides
- These are absorbed by intestines
A dog’s body makes 20 different amino acids:
- Essential amino acids → must come from food
- Nonessential amino acids → body can produce
Food that contains all essential amino acids = complete protein source
Protein Sources Explained
As mentioned earlier, proteins can be sourced from both animal and plant.
Animal sources (complete proteins):
- Lean meats
- Eggs etc.
Plant sources (incomplete proteins):
- Soybeans
- Wheat
- Corn etc.
Other emerging sources:
- Spirulina
- Phytoplankton
(However, they are supplements and not the main source.)
Important Notes on Dog Nutrition
- Dog’s major source of protein should be animal and not grain
- Dogs don’t have enzymes to digest grains properly as main protein sources
- Not all meat parts have equal protein quality
- Example: shoulder meat vs hoof
- Hair and feathers are indigestible protein sources
- Eggs are highly digestible but expensive
- Voluminous feces may indicate low digestibility
- High-quality dog foods: 82–86% digestible
- Economy brands: ~75% digestible
The percent digestibility is not on the label but can be requested from manufacturers.
Any brand claiming unrealistic values may be misleading pet parents.
