Vegan Protein Guide for Dogs
Protein is made up of building blocks called amino acids. These amino acids can be found in an array of foods, many of which are abundant in the plant kingdom.
Why protein is important for dogs?
Protein is crucial for the overall health of your dog. When consuming the proper amount of protein, your dog is able to utilize their diet to benefit the proper function of most major organs in their body as well as build hair, skin, nails, muscles, tendons, cartilage and ligaments.
What are the best sources of vegan protein?
Some of the top sources of protein-rich plant foods that are safe and healthy for dogs include:
- Quinoa
- Lentils
- Black Beans
- Tofu
- Tempeh
- Textured Vegetable Protein
- Peanut butter
- Almond butter
View our list of 5 foods to avoid feeding your dog.
How much protein should a dog eat each day?
The amount of protein your dog should consume depends on their lifestyle and weight. It's best to consult with your dog's veterinarian so they can ensure a tailored recommendation for your dog's protein intake. Generally, the protein in a homemade dog food recipe ranges from 5 to 11%+ as fed, depending on the recipe and ingredients.
Do I need to use a supplement for protein?
When feeding a fresh, homemade diet to your dog, the macro nutrients in the recipe will contain the protein your dog needs. Adding a supplement should mainly serve to properly balance the vitamins and minerals in the meals.
At Opal, all of our vet-approved recipes are formulated with a variety of plant-based protein sources that give your dog the perfect balance of amino acids in their diet. >> Learn more about our Perfect Powder supplement
