Is 30 protein too much in a dog food
Is High-Protein Dog Food Healthy for Your Pup?
As a pet parent, you want to give your dog the best of everything including nutrition. However, choosing the right food isn't always straightforward. For example, you might have heard that high-protein dog food is best for pups. But while protein is an essential nutrient, like most things, too much of a good thing can be harmful. Too much protein in dog food or too little can cause health problems.
Here's what you should know about protein in dog food to help you make the best choice for your canine companion.
What Does Balanced Nutrition Mean?
It's easy to focus on one nutrient at a time, but it's important to look at dog food as a whole. You've probably heard advertisements stating that a particular food is "complete" or "balanced," and that's because those qualities are essential to good nutrition. But what exactly does that mean?
In addition to protein, dogs need carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. According to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, these vitamins and minerals include calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamins A, D and E, among others. Many of these nutrients interact with each other. For instance, your dog needs fat to absorb certain vitamins, and carbohydrates help the body use protein more efficiently.
Dogs aren't carnivores but omnivores. This means their systems evolved to consume meat and plants. While meat is great for protein, as well as key vitamins and minerals, plants supply many other vitamins and minerals plus carbohydrates and fiber. Fat can come from both sources.
Bioavailability
A key feature of a nutrient is "bioavailability," which indicates how well the nutrient is absorbed and utilized by the body. This is one of the most important features of a dog food since nutrients won't do much good if they're left behind as waste. This is also why the crude protein level on your dog food label doesn't provide an accurate indication of the amount of protein your dog will absorb. Absorption is calculated by testing the food for nitrogen, which is then plugged into a formula and converted to a protein amount. It's not a reliable indication of the protein source's quality or how much your pup will actually digest.
Can Too Much Protein Harm Your Dog?
Kidney disease often goes undiagnosed in dogs who don't show any clinical signs. If your dog has underlying kidney disease, the high phosphorus levels associated with high-protein dog food can exacerbate and accelerate the disease process.
Excess protein can also lead to bone disease, which is typically seen in dogs who are only fed meat (e.g., your neighbor's super picky Pomeranian who only eats rotisserie chicken). Because meat is high in phosphorus and basically devoid of calcium, calcium levels fall and phosphorus rises over time. To correct this imbalance, the body pulls calcium from the bones.
Which Protein Source Is Best?
When most people think of protein, they think of meat. Poultry, beef, pork and fish are all excellent sources of protein that are common in dog foods. But, as any of your vegetarian friends will tell you, there are many other ways to get protein, including eggs, wheat, corn and legumes.
A complete, balanced dog food does all the work for you. Check the food bag's small print to find out whether it's been formulated and/or tested to be "complete and balanced," which means it meets the nutritional requirements for your dog's life stage as established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials. Whatever the protein source, this tells you it's the right amount to meet your pet's needs.
How Much Protein Does Your Dog Need?
Now you know that too much protein in dog food isn't recommended. But is a high-protein dog food ever warranted? If your dog is an athlete, meaning they complete field trials on a regular basis or run in agility, a high-protein dog food might be beneficial. If your dog is older, however, you'll want to back off on the protein since old kidneys aren't as forgiving as young ones. Likewise, if your dog has been diagnosed with kidney failure, your veterinarian will likely recommend controlled protein foods, among other nutrients.
Age, breed size, activity level and lifestyle are all important factors to consider when choosing your pup's food. Your dog is unique, so ask your vet which dog food they suggest. Rather than focusing on just one nutrient, aim to feed your dog a high-quality food that's complete and balanced with all the nutrients they need to thrive.
Contributor Bio
Dr. Karen Louis
Dr. Karen Louis owns a small animal clinic near St. Louis, MO. When not helping pets in her low stress clinic, she is walking her rescue dogs or taking nature photos.
Best High Protein Dog Food
Turkey Patties is one of6 raw frozen recipesanalyzed inour reviewof the We Feed Raw product line.
This We Feed Raw recipe obtains the better part of its animal protein fromturkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Other recipes: Venison, duck, lamb, beef, and chicken
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, wfr vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
Ancient Stream is one of 4 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild with Ancient Grains product line.
Taste of the Wild Ancient Streams derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh salmon in addition to both salmon and fish meals. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 17% fat and 42% estimated carbs which produces a favorable fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A new, grain-inclusive product line from one of the industrys most popular brands. Contains no legumes. A top pick.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Ancient Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, salmon meal, ocean fish meal, grain sorghum, millet Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs (including large breed puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Being in the K9 industry for the past 10 years, TotW is one food that's always reliable. I recommend it for working dogs and family pets alike. We rotate between the grain-free and ancient grains formulas to ensure proper taurine absorption. If you have a picky eater or a dog who has trouble maintaining weight, I highly recommend this food."
Adult Beef is one of 11 wet recipes covered in our review of the Raised Right Fresh product line.
Raised Right Adult Beef gets most of its meat protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis shows the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
All recipes contain a single source of animal protein with no hidden fillers. One of the best high-protein fresh foods on the market. Easily recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs Orijen Original is one of 9 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Orijen product line.
This particular Orijen recipe obtains the better part of its animal protein from fresh chicken, turkey, flounder, and whole mackerel. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 20% fat and 28% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
Ever since its founding, Champion Petfoods, the maker of Orijen, has supported a meat-based, biologically appropriate diet. This is a proven, balanced design and a top high-protein option. Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, turkey, flounder, whole mackerel, chicken liver Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and puppies (including large breeds) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"A few months ago I adopted a 14 month old Labradoodle, and I have had a difficult time getting weight on her because she just isnt interested in eating. This dog food has helped tremendously! Apparently, it taste good to her and is very nutritious because she looks and acts so much better. It is wonderful to see her playing, and her coat looks fabulous."
Active Dog is one of 8 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Dr. Tims product line.
Dr. Tims Pursuit Active Dog gets the better part of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis demonstrates the formula contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 36% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Dr. Tims products are prized by members of the large breed athletic and sporting dog community. A top choice and one thats especially easy for us to recommend.
Read our review of the full Dr. Tims Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, brown rice, chicken fat, whole oat groats, dried beet pulp Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult and small or medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My English setter, a Llewelyn has been on Dr. Tims Pursuit dog food since she was a puppy, over ten years ago. She is a very active dog and thrives on this food. She has been very healthy. Her white and spotted fur coat is shiny!! I highly recommend this product."
Meadowland is one of 6 dry recipes contained in our review of the Acana product line.
Acana Meadowland receives most of its meat content from deboned chicken and deboned turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 19% fat and 35% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A superior, grain-free kibble, offering balanced nutrition. Made by the same company that makes Orijen.
Read our review of the full Acana Regionals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, deboned turkey, chicken liver, turkey giblets (liver, heart, gizzard), chicken meal Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have a very fussy fur son. There are about 2 or 3 foods he will eat without turning his nose up and walking away. Acana I have had EXCELLENT results with all blends!!! It's a good feeling when he actually eats a food that has such excellent ingredients and the best part - ONE THAT YOU CAN TRUST!"
Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Puppy is one of 13 recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic product line.
This Merrick Classic product derives the bulk of its animal content from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis shows the food contains 31% protein, 18% fat and 43% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
A top-rated dry puppy food thats completely based on a safe, proven grain-inclusive design. Contains no legumes.
Read our review of the full Merrick Classic Healthy Grains Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For All puppies (including large breed puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"After weeks of searching for a reliable dog food for our toy poodle puppy we finally found Merrick, he is healthy and and is fur is so soft, he is only ten weeks old yet he has so much energy, we are very glad."
Extreme Athlete is one of 13 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete draws much of its animal content from chicken meal and fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the formula contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 29% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
An exceptional grain-inclusive formula, offering multiple recipe and flavor options. A top-rated, high-protein pick, containing no plant-based protein concentrates.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, chicken, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Dogs love it, and do great. Ive tried several types of foods, but always come back to this. It also makes my dogs coats shiny, and keeps a good weight on them. Especially since they are very active Belgian Malinois."
Canine Chicken Meal Feast is one of 11 dry recipes included in our review of the Natures Logic product line.
Natures Logic Canine Chicken Meal acquires the bulk of its meat fraction from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis shows the recipe contains 40% protein, 16% fat and 36% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 42%.
Natures Logic is one of only a handful of brands that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines using actual real-live canine feeding trials. Top choice from a trusted and ethical manufacturer.
Read our review of the full Natures Logic Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat, pumpkin seed, yeast culture Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 40% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have been looking for a more natural dry food with some greens and fruits. I have used this product in the frozen form, and was pleased to find it also as a dry food. I like the small kibble. My dogs are doing great on it, maintains weight and coats are beautiful. Thanks fir a great product!"
Great Plains Red Recipe is one of 7 dry recipes covered in our review of the Merrick product line.
Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Great Plains Red Recipe receives the better part of its animal protein from deboned beef, lamb meal, and salmon meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 19% fat and 30% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 45%.
An above-average kibble fortified with bits of freeze-dried raw beef. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Backcountry Raw Infused Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, lamb meal, salmon meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Love this food !! My dogs are so healthy no majors problem with them ! Keeps them full longer and the skin is so shiny ! The best product ever for your dogs."
Hi Pro Plus is one of 5 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Victor Classic product line.
Victor Classic Hi Pro Plus receives most of its meat content from beef meal. Dry matter label analysis demonstrates the food contains 33% protein, 22% fat and 37% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
One of the best grain-inclusive kibbles on the market. A classic, fully-balanced high protein recipe. Weve always admired Victors simple designs. Feed with confidence.
Read our review of the full Victor Classic Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef meal, grain sorghum, chicken fat, pork meal, chicken meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult and small or medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Our breed recommended this dog food & our Goldendoodle has been on this food for over a year now. He absolutely loves his food & runs to his bowl every time he knows its time to eat. He has a great coat, maintains a health weight & has solid poops. Highly recommend for active puppies & dogs!"
