Dogs are descended from wolves, which means they are meat-eating carnivores, animals that prey on herbivores, which eat plants. Tens of thousands of years ago, dogs and humans formed a partnership in which dogs helped humans hunt big game so they would be rewarded with a share of the kill and a nice warm place to sleep by the fire. In a display of gratitude, the dogs expressed their appreciation to their new human companions by barking throughout the night, ensuring that their owners remained awake.
Since dogs are meat eaters by nature, they need to eat a diet that approximates the fresh killed prey their ancestors thrived on, and that means plenty of protein in a Dog’s Diet!
Why protein dog food? Protein serves multiple functions within a dog’s physiology, including the construction and repair of muscles and various bodily tissues. It is crucial for the development of new muscle fibers, the regeneration of skin cells, and the promotion of hair growth.
Proteins play a crucial role in the synthesis of essential biochemical substances, including hormones and enzymes, which are vital for numerous physiological processes. Additionally, proteins serve as an energy source, akin to carbohydrates, and contribute to the maintenance of a robust immune system.
It is essential for dog owners to select high-quality food for their dog’s diet. By examining the guaranteed analysis on the back of the dog food bag, one can ascertain the minimum percentage of protein present in the product. However, a higher protein percentage does not necessarily indicate superior food quality, as not all protein included may be fully digestible by the dog.
To give you a better idea of the food’s real protein quality, check what the protein’s source is. It will be listed among the first few ingredients on the label. The high-quality sources of protein to look for include beef, eggs, chicken, fish, and other meat-producing animal sources. Some experts maintain that single-source protein meals are the most highly nutritious. Look for meals that have a specific name like “beef pack” when you are examining the ingredients. One advantage of single-source protein products is that dogs can have food allergies just like humans do, and while eating chicken might make them ill, they will be perfectly happy with lamb!
Your dog’s appearance and level of physical activity are the best indicators as to how well the food he eats is providing him with the necessary levels of protein, as well as vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. A dog exhibiting a glossy and smooth coat, bright eyes, a robust appetite, and an energetic disposition, consistently eager for walks or playtime, indicates that your dog’s diet is effectively meeting his nutritional needs.
