Low-Protein Food for Dogs

According to some schools of thought, a low-protein diet is ideal for senior dogs, obese pets and dogs who suffer from kidney disease. Before starting a new diet, it's essential to consult a veterinarian. Low-protein diets can be dangerous for puppies and dogs with conditions associated with muscle wasting, intestinal absorption disorders and protein-losing enteropathies such as lymphangiectasia. When switching a pet's diet, phase in the new food gradually over the course of two weeks.

  1. Senior Dog Foods

    • There are a number of low-protein dog foods available without a prescription. Senior dog food formulas have a low-protein content since elderly dogs are less active, and therefore the body requires less protein to fuel and rebuild muscles. Virtually every brand of dog food offers a food formula designed specifically for senior canines. Look at the dog food ingredients and select a food with potato or rice as the first (and therefore, most abundant) ingredient.

    Healthy Weight and Weight-Loss Dog-Food Formulas

    • Commercial dog-food formulas designed for weight loss or to maintain a healthy weight are low in protein. Weight-loss formulas typically have a slightly lower protein content than healthy-weight pet foods, which are intended to help the dog maintain a particular weight. Consult the ingredient list to confirm that potato or rice is listed as the first and most abundant ingredient. Meat, eggs and fish should be listed as the second most abundant ingredient. Avoid products with corn or wheat as the first ingredient, as many pets experience food allergies to these food items.

    Prescription Dog Foods

    • Prescription diets for dogs with kidney disease are typically low in protein. There are a number of prescription pet food diets available to dogs with renal failure. They include Hill's Prescription Diet k/d, Purina Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Canine Formula, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Renal MP14 Modified and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Renal LP11 Modified. These foods are sold at veterinary clinics only. They are typically available as both canned food and dry food.

    Low-protein Food Staples for Homemade Pet Diets

    • When cooking a homemade low-protein diet for your dog, serve one part protein, such as meat, eggs and fish, and serve two parts of potato, rice, oatmeal, carrots, sweet peas and pumpkin. In total, the protein should comprise one-third of the meal. The precise combination of foods is a personal preference. Potato, rice, oatmeal, carrots, sweet peas and pumpkin can also be used to supplement the dog's kibble. Instead of serving only kibble, serve two parts kibble and one part comprised of the aforementioned fresh food ingredients. This will also lower the dog's protein intake.