Not All Pet Food Protein is Created Equal

Rather than increasing a dog food's overall protein content, canine nutrition experts are pointing to amino acid content and bioavailability as important factors to consider in successful formulations. A recent Pet Food Industry article breaks down what we can learn from new research.

"Dogs have an amino acid requirement, not necessarily a protein requirement," says Claire Timlin, Ph.D., director of research and development at Four Rivers Kennel, a canine nutrition research institute. "High protein foods are not really doing any good if we are not fulfilling those [limiting amino acid] requirements." Methionine, for example, is often a limiting amino acid that serves as an important building block for protein and aids in urinary health.

Bioavailability should also be considered when formulating dog foods, not just digestibility. While digestibility measures the ability for a dog to absorb the nutrient, bioavailability measures how well the body can use it. A study found that pea protein, for example, had higher methionine bioavailability than chicken meal, despite initial assumptions about animal-based versus plant-based protein sources. Soy protein isolate has also been found to have higher bioavailability than certain common dog food ingredients like rendered meals.

This means that complete & balanced plant-based diets for dogs are not only possible, but also effective in addressing concerns about byproducts and processed meat ingredients that were once thought to be preferable from a protein standpoint. As long as a dog is obtaining the amino acids they require from a bioavailable source, including meat in your dog's diet is not a requirement for proper nutrition.  

For those cooking homemade meals for their dogs, adding a supplement like Opal's Perfect Powder helps fill a variety of nutritional gaps, including those limiting amino acids like methionine. With 100% plant-based, nutritionist-formulated companion recipes, cooking fresh meals for your dog can be simple and meat-free.

Learn more >> Vegan Protein Guide for Dogs