Most dog owners want to give their pup the best of everything. Like a cozy place to sleep, lots of walks, plenty of snuggles, and a good brushing. Not to mention healthy and delicious food. And who can blame them? Dogs deserve the best.
For that reason, many dog owners spend a lot of time searching for the most healthy dog food and treats available. But if your pet has certain medical conditions, there may be additional layers to your research. For instance, some dogs don’t do well with diets high in protein. There are a handful of reasons for this but the main one is kidney disease. These pups are often prescribed a specific diet that puts less strain on their kidneys. Instead of opting for any old treat, low protein dog treats may be needed. If your pup falls into this category, stick around for more useful information and a few treat recommendations.
What Are Low Protein Dog Treats?
Low protein dog food is typically made with less than 20% protein. But certain health conditions may require dogs to have even less. This may include regular dog food as well as treats.
Speaking of treats, they shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake anyways. Most vets recommend this for all dogs, not just ones with health conditions.
Many dog treats are high in protein, which means you’ll need to be extra careful about the treats you dish out. Thankfully there are a number of low protein dog treats out there that may satisfy your pup. But pig ears and rawhide probably aren’t one of them.
Which Dogs Need A Low Protein Diet?
Certain health conditions require dogs to cut back on protein. For them, not doing so can cause further health complications. Kidney disease is the main health condition in question but it’s not the only one. Dogs with liver disease and bladder stones may be at risk too. Their health may benefit from eating low protein foods and treats. But the medical condition a dog has is what will determine the amount of protein they should eat. As always, it’s best to speak to your vet about your dog’s specific dietary needs.
What Dogs Should NOT Eat A Low Protein Diet?
Overall, protein is important for most dogs. In fact, most puppies, dogs and dogs who are pregnant or nursing should generally avoid eating low protein foods. These dogs most often need added protein for proper growth and development.
Always consult your veterinarian, but most vets agree that fully grown dogs should eat foods that are at least 18% crude protein. So again, most dogs should eat a diet with plenty of protein. Low protein dog treats and food should be reserved for those diagnosed with certain medical conditions.
Does your dog have food allergies? Read The Ultimate Guide to Hypoallergenic Dog Treats
Blue Ridge Naturals Dog Treats
At Blue Ridge Naturals, creating healthy dog treats is a top priority. We believe that all dog owners should have access to the best food and treats for their furry companions, including those with medical conditions. And that’s why we’re happy to offer a few varieties of low protein dog treats.
Some of our most popular low protein dog treats are our sweet potato dog treats. We have many options to choose from, so you should be able to find one that your pup (even the pickiest one) loves. Try our Peanut Butter Coated Sweet ‘Tater Fries, Peanut Butter Coated Sweet ‘Tater Stix, and Peanut Butter Coated Sweet ‘Tater Fries. All three varieties make for delicious low protein dog treats. Because what dog doesn’t love peanut butter?
All of our treats are made with natural and wholesome ingredients. That’s the rule, not the exception at Blue Ridge Naturals. They’re always responsibly sourced within the USA too.
FAQs About Low Protein Diets & Dog Treats
What is low protein for dogs?
It varies based on the dog’s health needs. But low protein for dogs usually means less than 20% protein in their food. Your vet can tell you the best amount for your dog. (Low protein diets are for dogs who need less protein in their diets, like dogs with kidney or liver problems.)
What can I cook for my dog low in protein?
It depends on your vet’s advice, but generally, you can cook veggies like carrots or green beans, and grains like rice. They’re low in protein and known to be good for your dog.
Are eggs low-protein for dogs?
No, eggs have a lot of protein. They’re not considered a low-protein option for dogs.
What is the lowest protein meat?
Whitefish and turkey are lower in protein compared to other meats. They may be recommended by vets for dogs who need less protein. (It depends on the dog’s specific needs.)
Is salmon low-protein for dogs?
Salmon is not low in protein; it’s actually a great source of lean protein. It has more protein than white fish, for example. Salmon dog treats are not typically recommended by vets for dogs who need a low protein diet.
Should senior dogs eat low protein?
Some senior dogs might need less protein, but definitely not all. It’s best to ask your vet what’s right for your older dog.
Conclusion
Taking care of your furry companion means feeding them nutritious food that helps them grow strong and healthy. Protein is an essential nutrient and most dogs need high protein foods. However, those that suffer from medical conditions can be negatively impacted by too much protein. Low protein dog treats may be essential for dogs with medical conditions such as kidney disease and liver disease. But only if recommended by a vet.
The good news is there are dog foods out there made specifically with these dogs in mind. From regular dog food to low protein dog treats, it’s never been easier to access them.
At Blue Ridge Naturals we’re advocates of healthy and nutritious dog treats. That’s why we make our dog treats with only the best ingredients and carry many low protein options as well. Check out our entire line of dog treats to find the one that’s best for your pup!
