About 30,000 years ago, dogs evolved to become man’s best friend. They develop the ability to eat a varied diet that includes meat, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. And although dogs can be classified as omnivores, they lean more towards the carnivorous end, eating a diet high in meat. Dr. Gary Richter, Founder Optimal nutrition for petsstated that dogs have very high protein requirements from an evolutionary point of view; that’s what their bodies were designed to develop. So what is the best meat for your dog? It depends on your dog’s weight, age, breed and health and what protein source best meets his needs. So, basically, your dog is the answer to the best protein for him.
Protein is the most important ingredient in dog food
The nutritional value of a food is the amount of essential nutrients it contains – amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates. Proteins contain more important nutrients, and they are the sole source of amino acids.
Amino acids are important for health and well-being. They form new cells and repair and build muscle tissue. They aid in making the hormones and enzymes the body needs to function and keep the immune system strong. Amino acids create the energy your dog needs to chase those tennis balls.
Essential amino acids are not stored in the body and must come from a daily protein source. Protein is found in meat, eggs, dairy and some vegetables, grains, and legumes. However, animal sources contain more essential amino acids than plant sources that dogs need.
The amount of protein a dog needs depends on its life stage, breed, and any health conditions or illnesses. Overall, the National Research Council guidelines suggest that healthy adult dogs need a minimum of 2.62 grams of quality protein per kilogram of body weight.
What is the best protein for dogs?
Really, there is no “best protein” for dogs. When choosing a protein source, it’s about all the important nutrients it contains, your dog’s digestibility, and individual needs.
Many nutrients are needed to support a healthy dog at any stage of life. With any food, however, you need to consider its nutritional profile as each food contains different amounts of those important nutrients. A dog requires different amounts of nutrients, whether it is an English Mastiff recovering from surgery or it is a pregnant Chihuahua.
Choose a healthy meat for your dog
Dr. Richter asserts that there is no single best meat for dogs other than saying that some dogs work better with certain types of protein than others, but recommends that meat be “clean”, organic or grass fed if possible. Quality doesn’t matter. Animals raised in humane conditions have a better nutritional profile than factory-raised meats.
We’ve explored the nutrients in some of the most popular meats for dogs and some of the less common meats you’ve probably noticed on pet store shelves.
Can dogs eat beef?
Dogs can eat beef, beef (cow, male and cow). Beef is high in good fats and rich in minerals like zinc and iron. It’s an excellent source of B vitamins. The iron found in beef has bound to a protein called myoglobin, making it easier for the body to absorb.
Can dogs eat bison?
Yes, bison is a great substitute for beef for dogs. It contains plenty of protein, B vitamins and selenium. Bison has linoleic acid, omega 3 fatty acids, and high levels of iron and zinc. These are all great for cognitive support, immune support, and skin and coat benefits.
Can dogs eat venison?
Venison, which comes from deer, has less fat and cholesterol than beef. It is a good source of B vitamins and minerals such as zinc, phosphorus and iron. Venison can be a good choice for dogs with food sensitivities, allergies, and skin irritations.
Can dogs eat rabbit meat?
Dogs can eat rabbit meat because it is lower in sodium and calories than other proteins and rich in B vitamins. Rabbit is also a good choice for dogs. food sensitivitiesskin allergies and irritation.
Can dogs eat crocodile meat?
Yes, dogs can eat alligator, another protein found in dog food. It has almost twice as much protein as beef and it is significantly lower in fat with low cholesterol or no cholesterol. Crocodile is high in phosphorus, potassium, vitamin B12 and niacin. Like fish, crocodile meat can also contain high amounts of mercury.
Can dogs eat chicken?
Chicken is a great lean protein for dogs, and so are eggs. The egg is considered the most complete. It contains more amino acids than any other protein and is completely digestible. Almost nothing is unused by the body. Chicken is a rich source of omega 6 fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and coat. It also contains choline, zinc, iron and copper.
Can dogs eat ducks?
Yes, dogs can eat duck meat – a lean meat rich in iron and B vitamins. Duck is an excellent source of amino acids and a healthy alternative for dogs with protein allergies.
Can dogs eat turkey?
Yes, dogs can eat turkey, which is high in protein and rich in potassium, B vitamins, riboflavin and selenium. Turkey is a good substitute for dogs with beef or chicken allergies.
Can dogs eat pork?
Yes, dogs can eat pork but it should be cooked. Pork contains all the essential amino acids and is rich in thiamine. Thiamine is a vitamin necessary for cell and nervous system function. It also plays a part in carbohydrate metabolism. Pork can be high in fat, so it should not be fed to dogs on a low-fat diet. Be aware of the types of cuts you get and feed your dog only in moderation.
Can dogs eat wild boar?
Yes, dogs can eat lean boar meat, especially as a substitute for chicken. It contains many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, zinc, iron, niacin, thiamine, and selenium. These are essential for a dog’s healthy cardiovascular, immune and metabolic systems. Lean pork is a great source of energy and low in cholesterol.
Can dogs eat fish?
Yes, dogs can eat fish, but use caution. High mercury contamination is a problem when consuming fish, so consider the source (see chart here). In general, fish is beneficial for dogs. It is easy to digest and contains many fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Some fish can be high in sodium, so talk to your veterinarian about feeding your dog fish if your dog is eating it. low sodium diet.
Can dogs eat lamb?
Dogs can eat lamb – a high-quality protein with many vitamins and minerals, lamb is richer in iron than chicken or fish. For dogs, lamb can be a great addition to a healthy diet. It is a good source of healthy fats and beneficial for their gut flora. A healthy gut biome supports a strong immune system. Lamb contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that support healthy brain functions and promote kidney and heart health.
Can dogs eat kangaroo meat?
And, dogs can eat kangaroos. It is high in protein and is said to be the leanest animal protein available. It is rich in B vitamins, omega 3, zinc and iron. All of which support the dog’s immune system and benefit its overall health. Kangaroos are a great alternative for dogs with food allergies and those with pancreatitis.
Choose the best meat for your dog
Whether you feed commercially or homemade, there are things to consider as you formulate your dog’s diet. A “complete and balanced” pet food formula containing vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, as well as proteins and amino acids is considered essential, say experts at the Pet Food Institute. to support a healthy dog.
Just like humans, dogs can get sick from a lack or an excess of important nutrients. There is no “best meat” to feed a dog simply because no single meat contains all the nutrients a dog needs.
Hanna Mandelbaum, co-CEO and mother of ‘s fairy dog Evermore Pet Foods, say be creative. A protein that provides dogs with the amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals they need to grow. Changing dishes can also help those who are picky eaters. Dogs can also be sensitive to food if they eat the same thing for too long. This is why Dr. Richter likes to rotate his protein several times a year.
Your dog’s specific nutritional needs are key to determining what is the best protein. Your dog’s life stage, health condition, and breed all play an important role in what it needs to stay healthy. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s individual nutritional requirements and provide a balanced diet to keep him healthy.
