How to Choose the Best Protein for Your Dog

Let’s get ready to talk about all things protein. What is protein and why do dogs need it? Proteins are one of the building blocks of your dog’s body and consist of chains of amino acids. They can range in size from only a few amino acids to large, complex molecules.

Sources of Protein

There are different types of protein sources. Good sources of protein that are commonly used in dog foods fall into three main categories:

1. Named meat meals. Examples include chicken meal and lamb meal.

2. Fresh meat, fish, and poultry. Examples include de-boned turkey, de-boned venison, and de-boned salmon.

3. Plant-based proteins such as peas, lentils, and beans.

How Much Protein Does a Dog Need?

Protein is used for supporting muscle maintenance and growth. Very active dogs put increased strain on their muscles from this exercise and may require more protein due to this, which can be provided by high-protein dog food.

When it comes to high protein for active dogs, Go! Solutions Carnivore recipes may be a great option.

Our Carnivore line contains up to 87% of total protein from animal ingredients in our kibble recipes.

Recommended Solutions

Carnivore Recipes for Dogs

Up to 97% of protein from premium-quality animal sources

Carnivore™ Recipes

For most dogs, a moderate protein level is often appropriate. For these dogs, our Go! Solutions Skin + Coat Care recipes may be an option.

These recipes are grain-inclusive options that contain all the essential amino acids pets need to maintain healthy lean muscle mass without providing an excess, which is not nutritionally beneficial.

Recommended Solutions

Skin + Coat Care Recipes for Dogs

Full of Omega-3 fatty acids to hydrate skin, help prevent dandruff and reduce shedding

Skin + Coat Care™ Recipes

Protein & Food Intolerances

Some dogs may experience adverse reactions to some of the proteins that are commonly used in dog foods. Typical symptoms of food intolerances can include itchy skin, chronic digestive upset & diarrhea, excessive paw licking, and recurrent ear infections.

Typically, food intolerances in dogs are related to a dietary protein but can be linked to any component of a food. If you think your pet is experiencing a food intolerance, our Go! Solutions Sensitivities collection may be helpful in identifying this offending ingredient, as they are limited-ingredient diets, which feature single animal source, novel proteins.

Recommended Solution

Limited ingredient recipes for your canine friend

Our Go! Solutions Sensitivities recipes are specially formulated by experts to help dogs suffering from food sensitivities.

Sensitivities™ Recipes

In Summary

Protein is a vital component in your dog’s food and provides the essential amino acids to help keep your pet strong and healthy.

Whether your dog needs a diet that is high in protein, moderate in protein, or contains a novel protein, Go! Solutions offers a variety of recipes with premium proteins to meet your dog’s dietary needs!