Why is Protein Important in Your Dog’s Diet?

If you’re looking at a canine diet that is balanced and healthy, you will most certainly spot protein at the top of the nutrient list. That’s because protein is one of the main components of a diet that supports your pooch’s growth and development.

So why is protein important?

• Proteins are a source of energy
• Proteins are essential in helping the body defend itself against diseases
• Protein facilitates many processes that go on within the body such as digestion, metabolic reaction, etc.
• Protein is the building block that supports all the body tissues
• Protein is also responsible for keeping their immune system in check 
• Skin and coat maintenance can use up to 30-35% of dietary protein

Amino Acids

Amino acids, also known as the ‘building blocks of protein’ are essential for dogs. Dogs can synthesize 12 of the 22 different amino acids in their body. These are non-essential amino acids.

The remaining 10 amino acids – the essential, must be obtained through their diet. Hence, it is important that your pet’s diet contains all these 10 amino acids - arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine as per your pet’s requirement.

If you choose dog food with high-quality protein, it will have all of the 10 essential amino acids.

How protein benefits dogs at different life stages

• Pregnant and lactating dogs: Provides energy lactating dogs need to feed their puppies
• Puppies: Quality protein promotes healthy growth
• Adult dogs: Keeps them alert and agile
• Senior dogs: Supports muscle repair

How to choose healthy dog food

It might be tempting to use healthy ingredients from your pantry to cook your pooch a seemingly healthy meal. However, home-cooked meals, unless prepared by veterinary nutritionists, are deficient or unbalanced in nutrients required for a pet’s overall well being. While you may feel homemade dog food is fresh and less processed, the fact is that it does not constitute a complete meal for dogs. It is best to feed your pet prepared dog food as it offers guaranteed nutrition, palatability, digestibility, safety and convenience. In addition, it caters to the specific needs of dogs, depending on their lifestage.

If you’re looking for healthy dog food, it is important to check the labels before you make a purchase. Always check the ingredient list and nutrition analysis. Animal-based protein should always feature at the top of the ingredient list. The nutritional analysis should always feature a minimum crude protein percentage, ideally a minimum of 18% for an adult dog and 22% for a growing dog.

Our newest launch - Pedigree® PRO is a range of nutritionally balanced meals that are sure to meet all your pooch’s needs. Developed with our nutritionists and veterinarians at The WALTHAM™ Centre, Pedigree® PRO range is formulated with superior ingredients, 60% extra nutrients like extra protein and extra fat as well as adapted kibble size for dogs of different breeds for all life stages.

Nutritional analysis for Pedigree® PRO (protein):

To learn more about the Immunity, Growth, Active and Vitality formulas of the Pedigree® PRO range, click here.