Dogs are carnivores and will always need meat to grow healthy. Even the smallest dog breeds will need some level of protein in their meals. Today, most people prefer buying ready-made meals as this option is convenient.
At the same time, ready-made proteins allow you to keep track of the amount of protein you are giving your pet. In this guide, we intend to cover different aspects of protein for dogs. Also, we will review the 10 best protein sources for dogs available today.
K9 Bone Broth Powder
Many dog owners frequently looking for good protein source for their working mutts. This K9 powder is the best option for hunting or active dogs. This powder provides advanced hip and joint support too. So, we recommend this powder as the best protein for dogs.
Which Dogs Should Be Fed on High-Protein Foods?
There is a lot of talk on how pet owners should go for high protein foods for dogs. However, the truth of the matter is that some will require lots of protein, while others will thrive on lower amounts.
Some things you should check when deciding on the amount of the nutrient to give to your pet include the length of life and general state. The dog types should be maintained on high-protein meals mentioned below.
Athletic Canines
Protein food for dogs is vital to pets that engage in lots of activities. Some types like German Shepherd are known to be very athletic, and that is why they always take lots of protein. Such pets need this nutrient to grow their muscles and recover faster after their activities.
If the dog is becoming heavier than is recommended, you can consider transitioning to a low-calorie meal that has lots of protein. Such diets will leave the pet satisfied for longer periods, and they will be on track to becoming healthier.
Lactating Female Dogs
A lactating female dog will usually need a lot of protein. The nutrient will support the production of more milk. Also, keep in mind that dogs will need high-calorie diets. Gestating female dogs will similarly need to be maintained on lots of protein.
Working Dogs
A working dog will typically need the best protein food for dogs since they spend their days engaging in high-energy activities. Such pets will typically need higher levels of protein when growing as their organs and muscles will need to develop properly.
Comparison Table
Top 10 Proteins for Dogs
In this section, we will cover 10 of the best proteins for dogs. Read on to find out some of the most quality dog foods on the market.
Product Information
Brand Name - NutraPet Health
Weight - 60 Grams
Form - Powder
Price - $$$
This product is manufactured in FDA-approved facilities in the United States, and the process is approved by NSF and GMP. It contains chicken bone broth, organic turmeric, pumpkins, and hemp protein powder. The product also has rosemary extract and vitamin E, both of which are organic and safe preservatives.
Features
Below find the most important info regarding the food.
Organic chicken flavor
One pro of this protein is that all the components are natural. Other buyers have noted that the flavor included encourages the dogs to eat.
This dog protein is made with all-natural ingredients, and the chicken flavor included will please your dog. Most people don’t realize how much dogs appreciate the flavors and smells of their protein food. A good proportion of the dogs will even walk away from items that have unpleasant smells and flavors, and that is why this particular product is advantageous to your dog.
Contains bone broth
Bone broth has been noted to have lots of benefits for dogs. It is rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins, among other nutrients. The biggest benefit of bone broth is that it helps to protect the joints in the body. Cartilage in the joints tends to wear down due to continuous use, and bone broth has been noted to help supplement this cartilage. That way, the joints will be protected. Bone broth may also help to heal the intestines and reduce inflammation.
Made in the USA
When it comes to dog proteins, you should ensure that you go for products that are made in countries that have high safety standards, such as the USA. This particular meal is made in facilities that have been approved by the FDA. These facilities are also certified by the GMP and NSF.
· Supports the Gut Microbiome
This dog protein also contains ingredients that help to support the microbiome of your dog’s gut. This means you can expect to see an improvement in digestion and a reduction of stomach problems.
- Helps to support the joints of your dog
- Reduces inflammation in your dog
- Supports your dog’s gut microbiome
- Made in the USA
- Easy to use
- Some dogs don’t respond well to the flavor
Product Information
Brand Name - Bully Max Store
Weight - 396 Grams
Form - Chews
Price - $
This is because it contains 17 proteins and muscle-building ingredients. You should note that none of these ingredients is artificial. Some of the contents of the meal include brewers dried yeast, pea protein, enriched wheat flour, omega fish oil concentrate, and cellulase. The product is manufactured in the USA, so you can expect it to be extremely safe for your dog.
Features
Below find the most important features listed:
Full Label Disclosure
Buyers of this protein for dogs will enjoy the privilege of full label disclosure. That means you will know every ingredient that has been used to make the protein. It is worth mentioning that the protein does not contain any proprietary blends or fillers like corn.
Vet-Approved
This protein has been approved by vets like Dr. Jordan Davis-Powell. This should indicate to you that it is safe and quite useful to your dogs. They have noted that it is effective in building muscle in dogs.
Maximizes Growth
Many buyers of this protein have noted that it has accelerated the growth of their puppies and dogs. This is easy to believe as the product is made with 17 powerful muscle-building elements. You should remember that it doesn’t contain creatine or steroids, meaning the dog will grow healthily.
- Hastens muscle growth
- Is approved by vets
- Uses natural ingredients
- Is expensive
Product Information
Brand Name - Pedigree Store
Weight - 20.4 Lb
Form - Dry Dog Food
Price - $
For this meal, the manufacturers used organic components like chicken by-product meal, bone meal, and animal fat. For preservation, it uses BHA and citric acid. Although these are excellent and safe preservatives, you should not expect the product to last very long.
Features
Below find some of the most important features of the product:
Contains a variety of natural flavors
This product doesn’t contain sugar or artificial flavors and instead uses a range of natural flavors. You can, therefore, expect your dog to enjoy the meal. Since nothing is artificial, your dog will be able to enjoy a healthy life.
Made by a respected brand
Pedigree is among the most trusted dog protein manufacturers in the world. It has been running for over 6 decades and has its headquarters in the USA. You can, therefore, use their products without worrying about the quality.
Nourishes the skin and coat
This protein for dogs contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and zinc, and these nutrients will help to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy.
- No artificial ingredients
- Made with excellent flavors
- Made by a respected brand
- Uses artificial colors
Product Information
Brand Name - PET CARE Sciences Store
Weight - 1350 Grams
Form - Powder
Price - $$
This is another excellent protein for dogs. It is made of natural ingredients. Some of its components include whey protein concentrate, vegetable fat, and beef broth protein. The protein is backed by a 100% money-back guarantee.
Features
Some of the most important info can be found below:
100% Money-Back Guarantee
In case you are unsatisfied with this protein, you can send it back for a full refund. All you need to do is contact the customer service team, and they will sort out your issue.
Made according to USA regulations
The manufacturer observed the highest levels of safety when producing this protein. Their facilities are located in the USA, meaning they are under the supervision of US regulatory bodies.
Improves joint health
This protein is made with ingredients that boost the joint health of your dog. That makes it ideal for dogs that are recovering from injury or those that have suffered malnutrition in the past.
- Conditions the skin and coat of dogs
- Effective at building muscles
- Has a sweet bacon flavor
- Expensive
Product Information
Brand Name - Muscle Bully
Weight - 315 Grams
Form - Powder
Price - $$
Dogs can lose weight for many different reasons. If your furry mate is getting thin, you will find this protein useful. It contains high levels of protein and comes with directions, and that means you should be able to get the expected results.
Features
The main features, advantages and disadvantages can be found below:
Increases mass quickly
If your dog is looking weak, you should consider getting it this protein. It has 26% crude protein and 50% crude fat. Many buyers have noted that it has helped their dogs gain mass.
Affordable solution
If your dogs have had medical procedures and seem scrawny, you can avoid all the vet fees and customized diets and simply get this protein.
Adheres to GMP requirements
All the components of this protein are organic and safe. The company sticks to GMP guidelines when selecting the components and preparing the meal. Note that it is manufactured in a USA facility.
- Boosts weight gain
- Backed by a guarantee
- Made with organic ingredients
- Not approved as a treatment by the FDA
Product Information
Brand Name - Buddy & Lola Store
Weight - 1.39 Lbs
Form - Powder
Price - $$
This product is meant for many different breeds. It improves the functioning and healing of the wounds (if there any). Moreover, it’s the USA product with many other advantages.
Features
Find below concrete and to-the-point info regarding the product:
No side effects
The manufacturers use the product on their own dogs, and that should show that they trust the product. Also, they follow guidelines set by the GMP.
Makes your dog feel less tired
If your dog is sick, you should buy this item. It will make them feel less tired as it has lots of useful nutrients.
Normalizes sugar levels
The meal can help your nursing females restore their sugar levels. At the same time, it will support the ATP levels.
- Produced in the United States of America
- Boosts the functioning of muscles
- Has an excellent taste
- The flavor does not seem to please dogs
Product Information
Brand Name - Gorilla Max
Weight - 368 G
Form - Powder
Price - $$$
This item is made with whey protein isolate, and this has a high BV. It is meant for dogs of 12 weeks and above. However, being a little bit costly, you and your pet will not be unsatisfied, such as the quality guaranteed.
Features
We have gathered some of the most important info below, read on to find out all the features present:
Made with whey protein isolate
This ingredient has a biological value of 159, and that is quite high. Your furry friend will be able to digest and use the protein easily.
Approved by vets
It was developed by vets in the USA. It will not have any negative impacts on your dog.
Has probiotics
With this product, you can expect your dog to enjoy better gut health. It contains probiotics which are known to improve digestion and general gut health.
- Made with omega fish oil concentrate
- Has a very high BV
- Follows FDA and AFFCO requirements
- Is costly
Product Information
Brand Name - MVP K9 Supplements Store
Weight - 630 Grams
Form - Powder
Price - $$$
This one is made using whey protein, healthy fats, and BCCAs. It helps to support the muscles and other important health systems of your pet. Though it may be too costly, you’ll get impressed with the quality of it!
Features
All the needed info to find out present below:
Satisfaction guarantee
The maker of this protein for dogs stands behind it and offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee to all buyers. If you have a problem with it, you can get in touch with the customer support team, and they will send you a full refund.
Contains 28% whey protein
This product is made with 28% whey protein, which is effective in boosting mass gain. This component also supports the dog’s body parts.
Does not have any fillers and additives
It only contains key ingredients, and it does not have any fillers.
- Made in the USA
- Doesn’t have fillers
- Covered by a 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Costly
Product Information
Brand Name - Bully Max
Weight - 180 Grams
Form - Chews
Price - $$
This protein is approved by vets. All its components are shown on the package, so you should not worry about secret elements. Thus, no need to worry that the quality or final results will be unsatisfactory!
Features
The most important features mentioned below:
Verified by an independent body
This protein has been tested by the University of Kentucky and has been proven to be pure. Also, the university determined that the protein is completely safe.
Boosts the immune system
The dog protein is made with ingredients that strengthen the immune system of the dog, and this means your dog will have better protection from infections.
True Label Guarantee
With the True Label Guarantee, you can be certain that all components used are listed on the package. The product is not made with proprietary blends.
- Grows muscles fast
- Completely safe
- Has the True Label Guarantee
- Uses artificial sugar
Product Information
Brand Name - Superior Farms Pet Provisions
Weight - 141 Grams
Form - Snacks
Price - $
Superior Farm Pet Provisions makes their dog protein with 100% lamb. This ingredient is sourced from its facilities in the USA and New Zealand, so you should not doubt that the product would be harmful to your pet!
Features
All the needed features to find out about located below:
Allergy-Friendly
This protein is made with allergy-friendly components. This means it will not have any negative impacts on your furry friend.
Made in New Zealand and the USA
New Zealand and the USA both have very high safety requirements for their dog proteins. That means you can trust that this protein is properly prepared.
Made with 100% lamb
The protein is made with properly sourced lamb, and dogs seem to love its taste. Additionally, it is a great protein source.
- No negative impacts
- Doesn’t trigger allergies
- Made by a trusted brand
- Expensive
What Is in Protein Dog Food?
These types of dog proteins are commonly made using beef, chicken, and lamb. These proteins have high BV values. Other components of the dog protein include Omega-3 concentrate, water, probiotics, and prebiotics.
Deciding on the Best Protein Meal
Although it is challenging to decide on the best protein food for dogs for your furry mate, there are pieces of advice you can follow. First, check the BV of the components. This figure indicates whether the protein is useful to your pet. A higher value shows that it contains lots of protein that can be broken down in the dog’s gut. For illustration, parts like beaks may have high levels of protein, but they are useless to our four-legged mates as they cannot be absorbed into their systems. A high BV shows that the protein delivers the 10 essential amino acids to your dog.
As you look for the best protein food for dogs, you must also consider going for those with animal-based components as opposed to plant-based ones. The reason here is that animal-based components tend to be more usable by dogs. Chicken eggs are actually considered the official baseline. They are thus assigned a BV of 100. Another common protein source like cow meat has a BV of 78.
Good Protein for Dogs Is Actually Costly
Naturally, you will have to pay more money for a good source of protein for dogs. Most people fail to realize that protein is the most expensive component of dog protein. For example, a product with high amounts of chicken will always cost more than one, which primarily has plant-based ingredients.
You also need to remember that different protein sources will have different costs. Chicken is among the cheapest animal-based protein, and kangaroo meat is the most expensive. Some brands will even offer custom-made meals that specifically suit the nutritional needs of your dog. Such proteins will typically be transported without any preservation and may need to be refrigerated at home.
Although higher prices often indicate that the protein is great, you should be wary of manufacturers who simply slap exorbitant price tags on cheap or average products. You should go through the product reviews as we have tried to root out low-quality proteins.
Check List for a Good Dog Food
You should note that excellent dog meals are not easy to find, especially since many manufacturers use shady methods to trick customers. Here are a few things you should check when shopping for a good protein for dogs.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
This nutrient is usually included as supplements. It helps to reduce inflammation in dogs and will soothe their exteriors. By easing inflammation, the nutrient will also help to reduce lameness, joint pains, and discomfort. Omega-3 also supports the brain development of puppies and improves the functioning of the immune system. It is beneficial to select products with this supplement since this nutrient is hard to obtain naturally. Even dogs that feed on raw food will often miss this nutrient unless you feed them on seafood.
Probiotics
These are useful living organisms that sit in the gut. These bacteria are useful to dogs, so you should shop for products that have probiotics. One benefit of these organisms is that they improve gut functions. Some types may even help relieve your dog of diarrhea and issues with the bowel.
Some studies have also suggested that they can alleviate allergies and can help keep the urinary tract healthy. Meals that have these organisms will typically need to be refreshed in order to preserve the bacteria.
Similarly, it is prudent to check for prebiotics since the bacteria will need to survive as well. Prebiotics are components that are not digested in the guts of dogs, and they provide food for the probiotics.
Don’t Have Artificial Elements
Artificial flavors and preservatives should generally be avoided since they come with some negative health impacts. Although natural preservatives don’t keep the protein safe for long, you would still be able to provide proper nutrition with them. Some commonly used artificial preservatives include ethoxyquin, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT).
These can keep your dog protein safe for even a year, but they may not be the best for your dog’s health. Natural alternatives to these preservatives include ascorbic acid and plant extracts. It is worth mentioning that there is conclusive evidence showing that artificial preservatives and flavors are bad for dogs, but some tests have shown that these elements can cause health issues.
Manufactured in Regions with Strict Safety Standards
It is important to always go for proteins that have been made in places with strict safety standards. This way, you can be certain that your dog will grow healthy and will not experience any side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may still have lots of questions about dog proteins. In this section, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions on the subject.
Which Proteins Are Preferred Generally?
Professionals recommend that you go for products that contain beef, lamb, or chicken as these are the easiest for your dog to break down. These sources of protein also have very high biological values.
Are There Any Negative Side Effects of Protein?
Yes, giving your dog a lot of this nutrient can overwork their livers and kidneys. This is especially harmful to those that already have issues with these organs. Excess protein can also lead to weight gain, which will affect the overall health of your pet.
Which Dog Food Contains the Most Protein?
HDP Gorilla MAX Protein Muscle Supplement has the most protein as it has a biological value of 159. In every serving of this meal, your dog will gain 20 grams of protein. This meal is good for pets that are at least 12 weeks old.
How Much Protein Should Be in Dog Food?
On the lower side, these meals should have 18 percent of the crude nutrient. Active dogs and lactating female dogs will require meals that have a protein content of at least 30%. It is also important to ensure that the carbohydrate content is less than 43%.
The Final Word
All dogs need to be fed on protein. However, you will find that athletic canines, lactating dogs, and working dogs need more protein than other types of dogs. When selecting a meal for your dog, you should make sure the protein is produced safely and does not contain artificial elements. The info below can help you make a perfect decision!