High Protein Low Calorie Dog Food

While most people are well aware of the importance of high-quality, low calorie dog foods due to the obesity problems in canines, the importance of having a good quality high protein food is often overlooked. Dogs can handle much more protein than humans can, but it is important not to overdo the amount of protein in your animal's diet.

  1. Benefits

    • A low calorie dog food will help ensure that your dog does not get obese, and it can also help a dog that has begun to put on weight to lose that weight. A high protein dog food is beneficial because it helps the growth and development of muscles, boosts the immune system and helps the dog's body repair any injuries.

    Misconceptions

    • Many people believe high protein dog food can cause kidney problems in dogs, but the fact is that dogs are descended from wolves and, as such, their bodies can process much greater levels of protein than humans. In fact, they thrive upon such a diet.

    Considerations

    • When purchasing your high protein, low calorie dog food, make sure the protein sources should come from actual animal products and not by-products or corn.

    Warnings

    • Dog food should contain at least 18 percent protein (for most dogs). In some cases, up to 22 percent, but it should never be more than 42 percent. Likewise, dogs can suffer metabolic problems if they do not get enough calories from their food.

    Fun Fact

    • If you are feeding a high protein, low calorie dog food to your pet in the hopes that he will lose weight, then you also need to watch the treats you are giving. Many people cut back on the calories in their dog's food but continue to give high calorie treats. This defeats the purpose.