A Guide to the Best Proteins for Dogs
Energy. Strength. Better overall wellness. These are just some of the potential benefits of proper protein intake. This nutrient is vital for your dog’s everyday activity and essential to help build and repair muscles so they can live their happiest, healthiest life!
The best protein for dogs will depend on their breed, body type, age, and preferences. Dogs, like people, are also susceptible to food allergies, so it’s always best to consult your vet before introducing a new protein source to your dog. Discover more about the different types of protein and the benefits of each.
In This Article:
Chicken
Some consider chicken as one of the best protein sources for dogs, and they’d have a strong argument! This popular protein is lean and packed with amino acids to help build and maintain muscles, boost energy, and promote coat health. Chicken appeals to even the pickiest Cadets because it is easy to digest and offers the classic flavor dogs love—perfect for most breeds and ages (pending any dietary restrictions).
When serving your dog fresh chicken, ensure the chicken is skinless for less fat intake, free of ingredients toxic to dogs such as onions and garlic, and completely boneless (cooked bones become brittle and can break, posing a choking hazard).
If you’re looking for a convenient way to indulge your dog’s craving for chicken, there are plenty of delicious, wholesome chicken treats and chews to add to your dog’s treat rotation. Whether it’s a quick reward like Chicken & Apple Wraps or a long-lasting shish kabob that combines chicken with other proteins, there are many options to provide variety, flavor, and satisfaction.
Beef
Beef is another tasty, high-protein favorite for many dogs. It contains iron, zinc, and B vitamins to help support energy levels, immune health, and healthy teeth and bones. While beef is great for dogs of all ages, it can be especially beneficial to senior dogs or puppies who can use additional support for their overall wellness.
It won’t be hard to satisfy your dog’s love for this protein, especially with so many different beef chews and treats to choose from! Long-lasting chews like Bully Sticks let your dog enjoy the taste of beef while keeping them busy, whereas treats like Beef Strips are perfect for quick everyday rewards. If you want to serve your dog fresh beef, be sure it is fully cooked, unseasoned, and lean.
Pork
Not only is pork an excellent protein source for dogs, it’s also nutrient dense and abundant in B vitamins, which help support the nervous and immune systems. It’s highly digestible, making lean pork a good option for older dogs or those with sensitive stomachs.
If you’re rewarding your dog with pork, be sure it is cooked, plain, and lean. It’s also recommended to give your dog pork that contains no added ingredients. In general, table food must be as plain as possible; hold the onion or garlic, which are toxic to dogs.
Whether you’re giving Pork Hide Roll Twists or Pork Hide Shish Kabobs, it’s easy to indulge your dog with the savory taste of pork.
🐕 Related → Can Dogs Eat Pork: What to Avoid & What’s Best to Give
Turkey
Turkey is another one of the best proteins for dogs. It contains the same amino acids as other poultry like chicken, which help assist with muscle growth and tissue repair. Highly digestible and naturally lean, it’s a smart choice for senior dogs and dogs needing weight management.
If you’re serving your dog cooked turkey, avoid giving the skin (it’s high in fat) and bones (they can splinter easily). Make sure the turkey is cooked, unseasoned, and dry—meaning no gravy for your furry friend…but more for you!
Want a safe way to satisfy your dog’s craving for that delicious turkey flavor? Turducken Jerky Treats are made with real turkey and serve as a natural source of protein.
Salmon
Not only is salmon a reliable source of protein for dogs, but it is also packed with omega-3 fatty acids to help with skin and coat health. Salmon also contains vitamin D, which supports a healthy calcium balance to help keep your dog’s bones strong for everyday activities.
Salmon is great for dogs in small increments and a good alternative to beef or chicken—especially for dogs with food allergies. When serving salmon to your dog, ensure the filet is boneless. Even salmon marked as boneless on the packaging may contain small bones hidden within the filet, so inspect before cooking and serving. You can also treat your dog to salmon skin if it is properly cooked and not seasoned.
Duck
Duck is one of the best protein sources for dogs because it is a flavorful, wholesome protein alternative for those with intolerances to chicken, pork, or beef.
Just like salmon, duck is also high in omega-3s to improve mobility and joint function. Additionally, it’s rich in vitamin B and offers essential minerals, which can help support cognitive function. Senior dogs with intolerances may benefit from duck to help maintain their overall wellness.
If your dog has an allergy or intolerance to chicken or beef, duck is commonly considered one of the best proteins for dogs with allergies, so talk to your vet about making the switch.
Venison
Looking for a lean, nutrient-dense protein alternative for your dog? Venison may be another one of the best protein sources for dogs with allergies, especially if they crave wild flavors. An excellent source of omega-3s, venison also contains iron, vitamin B12, and zinc to help support immune function and overall wellness.
Due to its high nutrients and low fat content, venison is often recommended for overweight or senior dogs. Venison can be fed as a treat, as a part of your dog’s diet, or even as a flavorful chew toy made with real venison.
Going Wild for Protein
Dogs are omnivores, so it’s only natural for them to crave meat like their wolf ancestors did back in the day.
Want to explore more delicious, nutritious flavors with your Cadet? Check out these topics:
Can Dogs Eat Beef Jerky?
Healthy Human Food for Dogs
Can Dogs Eat Cheese? Here Are the Safest Varieties
Can Dogs Eat Liver?
FAQs About the Best Proteins for Dogs
What is the best protein for dogs?
Beef, chicken, salmon, duck, venison, pork, and turkey are some of the best protein sources for dogs.
What is the best protein source for dogs with allergies?
Venison, duck, and salmon are three options for dogs who may be allergic to chicken or beef. Always check with your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet.
What is the best protein for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Dogs with sensitive stomachs will benefit from easily digestible proteins such as salmon, duck, or turkey.
What protein is best for puppies or senior dogs?
Chicken, turkey, and fish are great options for puppies or senior dogs. Puppies will want a higher protein intake for their growing bodies, while senior dogs require proteins to maintain muscle mass as they age.
Can dogs have too much protein?
Too much protein can be potentially harmful to dogs with pre-existing conditions such as kidney or liver disease. Confirm with your vet how much protein is the correct amount for your dog.
