Low Protein Dog Food
At the advice of veterinarians or other sources of information, many pet owners are starting their dogs on diets based on low protein dog food. This alternative can be a healthy and beneficial choice for some dogs, but beginning a low protein regimen should not occur until you are certain it is right for your dog. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps dogs grow and develop properly, so its intake should only be reduced in specific situations where a veterinarian deems necessary.
The most common reasons to begin a dog on a diet of low protein dog food all relate to kidney conditions. Because protein is hard for the body to break down and digest, large amounts of protein put extra strain on the functions of the kidneys. A history of kidney problems or failure in your dog can mean that a protein-rich diet could cause serious health complication or even be life-threatening. Low protein diets will also help reduce the amount of nitrogen in your dog’s bloodstream; high nitrogen levels can cause serious damage to muscle and tissue. If your dog has been diagnosed with acute or chronic kidney failure, glomerulonephritis, or has suffered from kidney stones in the past, it may be a good candidate for a low protein diet.
Because it can be unhealthy to feed some dogs low protein dog food, you may have to start your dog’s low protein diet with a prescription from your veterinarian. This will also allow you to consult your vet about what other characteristics you should be looking for when choosing from low protein options. When selecting the right food for your dog, it is important to keep a few nutritional considerations in mind, as simply choosing an option with low protein will not be enough to keep your pet healthy. First and foremost, make sure that the protein that is included in the food is coming from high quality animal-based sources like eggs, meat, and dairy. Feeding your dog unsatisfactory proteins from grain-based sources like corn and soybeans will lead to a deficiency of the important properties that proteins possess.
Additionally, look at the ingredient label and nutritional facts of the low protein dog food you select to ensure that a few other conditions are met. High levels of complex carbohydrates like whole grains and vegetables will help your dog’s urinary system and combat many of the effects of weakened kidneys. High calcium content is advisable as well; damaged kidneys may mean that your dog has trouble digesting calcium as well as protein, so increased levels will make it less likely that your dog suffers from calcium deficiency. Finally, search out a dog food that is devoid of fillers and unnecessary preservatives. Finding a food with the most whole, natural ingredients will be the best bet in ensuring your dog’s health.
