Amino acids in dog foods
Protein in dog food and the Amino Acids
Protein is probably one of the most important ingredients in any dog food and probably the least understood by pet owners. Although perception is changing, owners tend to think that quantity of protein is the main factor whereas the quantity utilised is the real criteria. Excess protein intake by dogs may result is the formation of ammonia which is toxic to every cell in the body but especially the kidneys. The problem with the kidneys is that over 2/3rd of the organ is damaged before it will show in any test.
Usable protein is determined by the Amino acid groups which consist of Essential Amino Acids and Non – Essential Amino Acids.
Essential Amino Acids are those which the dog cannot make in sufficient quantities therefore it must be provided, usually in the form of meat or fish.
Non – Essential Amino Acids are those which the dog can make itself. These include Taurine but the dog will need the essential amino acids, Methoinine and cystine ( Cystine is made from methoinine) in order to create taurine naturally!
It is the Essential Amino Acids in protein which determine the quantity utilised by the dog although non – essential Amino Acids are still important nutrients required by both dogs and cats.
Essential Amino Acids required by dogs
Methoinine : Assists gall bladder function, helps cohesion of fats in the liver and is required for the production of Taurine. (Dogs make their own, cats need to be provided)
Phenyalanine: Helps regulate appetite control, works with vitamins and mineral in hair and skin pigmentation – Assists in production of adrenaline.
Arginine: Stimulates the immune system, helps detox liver of ammonia and stimulates the pituitary gland for growth hormone.
Histidine: Associated with pain control and aiding early digestion by stimulating stomach acid secretion.
Lysine: Stimulates secretion of gastric juices, promotes bone growth.
Threonine: regulates energy requirements, mood swings, skin pigmentation, aids in manufacture of adrenaline and thyroid hormone.
Tryptophan: Aids in production of serotonin for sleep regulation, appears to aid blood clotting. Lack of, along with methonine can cause hair loss.
Valine, Isoleucine & Leucine: Work together to regulate protein use and energy conversion.
To receive a sample, leaflets and a £5.00 OFF voucher, please fill out the form here