What Are the Dangers of a High Protein Diet in Dogs?
A dog's diet is considered high in protein when more than 30 percent of its food consists of protein. Although avid hunters, dogs are omnivores like people and need a combination of meat, vegetable matter and carbohydrates to stay healthy. Eating too much protein can make a dog prone to severe health problems.
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Calories
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Protein is often high in calories. Unless a dog is very active or a growing puppy, it will not be able to burn off the calories and as a result will become overweight.
Types
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According to the Whole Dog Journal, most commercial foods get their protein sources from a meal made up of non-specific remains--including hair and hooves--of slaughtered animals. Using human-grade meat is healthier.
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Effects
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According to Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook, dogs eating too much protein often have digestive problems, need more exercise, get overweight, are prone to amino-acid deficiency and have problems breeding.
Misconceptions
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It's a common misconception among dog owners that a high-protein diet can cause hyperactivity. According to ThePetCenter.com, high-protein diets will not cause hyperactivity, but can aggravate it.
Warning
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According to Canine Cancer Awareness, dogs with kidney disease--regardless of whether they also have cancer--need to avoid high-protein diets, as too much protein can aggravate their condition.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons
