How to Treat Low Protein Levels in Dogs

Protein helps to build a dog strong. Dogs produce about 13 amino acids internally and another 10 are produced when the dog eats. If a puppy is not given the 10 amino acid sources, it will not develop properly. The puppy will become sick and could die. An adult dog will suffer a deficiency of nutrition and become weak. Proteins are required to build strong bones and muscles, help the dog to develop and grow, and to help with the hair, nose and eyes. The immune system needs proteins to continue to protect the body from disease and infections.

Things You'll Need

• Boneless cooked or canned fish
• Cottage cheese
• Cheese
• Eggs
• Buttermilk

Instructions

1. Add whole milk to the dog's diet. Do not overfeed the dog milk, as digestion problems can occur and diarrhea. Feed the dog no more than two ounces of fluid milk, and no more than two tablespoons of dry milk in each pound of dog food.

2. Feed boneless cooked or canned fish such as sardines and herring, which are high in Omegas, three times a week. This is an excellent source of protein. However, the fish must be cooked to be safe for the animal's consumption.

3. Add cooked eggs to the dog's diet. Eggs are an excellent and inexpensive source of protein. Dogs cannot be given raw eggs due to a negative reaction with vitamins.

4. Add cottage cheese to the dog's diet. This is an inexpensive and easy way to get additional protein for the dog. Cottage cheese can be mixed with the dog's food or given as a snack or special treat.

5. Add cheese to the dog's diet. Cheese is a source of energy and protein for the canine, though it is more expensive than eggs or cottage cheese.

Tips & Warnings

• Allergies are one of the most common symptoms associated with deficiencies in canines.

• Fish and dairy products will combat any protein deficiency in your dog.

• If your dog is experiencing symptoms of low protein, you should immediately schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Often, low protein levels are a result of a kidney disease.

• A yearly blood test should be performed which will alert you to any conditions your dog may have.

References

• Chinese-School Netfirms
• Dog Aware
• The Pet Center