What is the best source of protein for dogs?
Protein is one of the most important nutrients in a dog's diet. It supports muscle development, healthy skin and coat, immune function, and countless everyday activities. But with so many different protein sources available, many dog owners ask the same question: what is the best source of protein for dogs?
Whilst there isn't a single "best" protein source, there are a lot of factors that decide what could be ideal for your dog. This includes your dog's age, energy levels, sensitivities and of course, what they actually enjoy eating. Read on to explore some of the more popular protein sources in natural dog treats and whether they're right for you. In this article:
- Why do dogs need protein?
- Is one protein better than another?
- Common proteins for dogs
- Frequently asked questions
- What protein should you choose?
Why do dogs need protein?
Proteins contain amino acids which are essential for all animals. Dogs need amino acids to maintain healthy muscles, repair tissues, support the immune system and produce enzymes and hormones. Protein plays a massive part in this, from growing as puppies to keeping older dogs active and healthy.
Providing a complete and balanced diet with high-quality protein helps support your dog's overall health.
Is one protein better than another?
Different proteins have different nutritional profiles and flavours. They can also affect your dog's gut health, so whilst there is not one single protein that is better, it's good to understand which proteins your dog reacts best to.
Many owners choose to regularly rotate protein sources, but it's good to make dietary changes gradually. This gives you more time to work out any allergies, intolerances or preferences your dog has towards certain flavours. To get a good understanding of what protein your dog loves when choosing dog treats, make sure to consider:
- High-quality ingredients
- Clearly labelled protein sources
- Minimal processing
- No unnecessary artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
Common proteins for dogs
Beef
Beef remains one of the most common proteins used in dog food and treats. Many dogs enjoy its rich flavour, making it an excellent choice for rewards and long-lasting natural chews.
Common beef treats include:
Because beef is widely used in commercial dog foods, some dogs with food allergies may need an alternative protein if advised by their vet.
Buffalo
Popularity among buffalo flavoured dog treats is continuing to grow. It is a lean meat, high in protein and great for sensitive stomachs and supporting dental health. Despite it being a lean meat, it still packs plenty of flavour and is a great choice for all dog breeds.
Popular buffalo dog treats include:
Chicken
Chicken is one of the most widely fed proteins in the UK, tasty and packed with essential amino acids and omega-6 fatty acids. However, due to it's popularity, it is also one of the more commonly reported food allergies for dogs. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, then there may be more suitable alternative proteins.
Common chicken dog treats include:
Duck
Duck has a slightly richer taste than chicken, but is less commonly used than proteins such as chicken and beef. Despite this, duck is still a fantastic alternative to more traditional proteins, rich in protein, iron content and fatty acids.
Popular duck dog treats include:
Fish
Fish is valued highly for what it offers outside of just its protein content. Fish treats are naturally high in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting a healthy skin, coat and even improving brain development. It's a fantastic alternative for dogs with allergies to more traditional proteins, or to include as part of a balanced diet to improve your dog's overall health.
Common fish dog treats include:
- Fish skin
- Sprats
- Fish cubes
Goat
Goat is relatively uncommon in many commercial dog foods, but there are still several goat dog treats available. Goat provides several key health advantages including easier digestion, a hypoallergenic protein source, and natural gut support.
Popular goat dog treats include:
- Goat skin rolls
- Goat pate
Lamb
Lamb has been a popular source of protein for several years in dog foods as owners look for alternatives to chicken and beef. Lamb treats are also rich in flavour and support with muscle growth, easy digestion and maintaining your dog's skin and coat. They are high in protein but also slightly fattier so should be used in moderation.
Common lamb dog treats include:
Pork
Pork is another highly digestible source of protein for dogs, full of essential amino acids and high in protein which is fantastic for muscle development and repair. Pork is also one of the most popular proteins for dog treats, providing great flavour and being easy to source across the UK.
Popular pork dog treats include:
Rabbit
Rabbit is a healthy choice for dogs, high in protein, but low in fat and cholesterol. It's perfect for dogs with food allergies and sensitive stomachs, although there are limited number of rabbit dog treats available. Rabbit treats with fur such as ears, are also great for removing parasites from your dogs, acting as a natural brush down the digestive tract.
Rabbit is typically recommended by vets during elimination diets to investigate food allergies, making it a safe choice for many dogs. Rabbit dog treats available include:
Venison
Venison is becoming more and more popular as a premium dog food and natural treat. However, venison is actually very easily accessible, is a lean source of protein and perfect for weight management. It supports dogs with sensitive stomachs, is rich in nutrients and is another hypoallergenic protein, ideal for dogs with allergies.
Popular venison dog treats include:
FAQs
Should dogs eat different protein sources?
For dogs with no allergies, a variety of protein sources can benefit them and add some excitement to their diet with different flavours and nutrition to enjoy. However, this isn't the case with every dog. Some proteins should be added gradually to a dog's diet, whilst dog's with sensitive stomachs or allergies should stick to proteins easier on the stomach. If you are unsure, please consult your vet.
Which protein is easiest for dogs to digest?
The easiest protein for digestion is different for every dog. Typically, chicken, fish and rabbit are easy to digest, however, this will also depend on any allergies your dog has.
What protein is best for dogs with allergies?
This depends on the allergy your dog has. Chicken and beef are common for triggering allergies or causing upset stomachs. Use different proteins or similar alternatives such as turkey and duck to understand what your dog reacts to best, before choosing the most suitable protein for your dog.
Are single protein treats good for dogs?
Single protein treats are ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs and allergies. Using hypoallergenic treats ensures you have a simple ingredients list to know what affects your dog, and that treats are 100% natural with no additives or preservatives that could trigger a reaction.
What protein should you choose?
As mentioned, no single protein source is right for every dog. It's important to consider all the options available and what your dog enjoys the most and finds easy to eat. However, it is important to always choose high-quality, natural treats, supporting your dog's health and energy levels with high protein treats.
We stock a wide range of 100% natural dog treats from various protein sources. Browse our products and order online today.
