Older dogs need more protein in their diet

It is commonly believed that geriatric dogs should be fed less protein. Most commercial diets for older dogs have lower levels of protein. In fact, it is the opposite. Geriatric dogs need more protein. Studies indicate that aging dogs can decrease the digestion and absorption of intestinal proteins. Other geriatric changes also require the need for an increase in dietary protein in these dogs.

Muscle loss

Most of the muscle loss in geriatric dogs is the result of a natural change from aging called sarcopenia. Sarcopenia is common among all mammals, including humans. Inadequate protein intake can accelerate this process. Lack of physical activity also promotes muscle loss. This is very common in dogs with arthritic joints or back conditions that are too painful to exercise. Other geriatric conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, and gastrointestinal disease decrease appetite. The refusal to ingest a sufficient amount of protein in the diet contributes to the loss of muscle mass. Some kidney and gastrointestinal diseases are characterized by the loss of protein in the body and, if not compensated, also contribute to the loss of muscle mass.

Loss of bone density

Decreased bone density or osteoporosis can be influenced by protein loss. The calcium and phosphorus that characterize bone strength are largely due to the protein framework that these minerals contain. Low protein diets can lead to a failure to maintain a healthy bone protein framework that increases bone fragility and can predispose older dogs to broken bones.

Immune system function

The immune system also depends on adequate levels of proteins and amino acids. White blood cells need adequate protein to produce protective antibodies and fight bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. The vulnerability of nursing homes to infectious diseases is well documented. Inadequate protein intake or loss can contribute to weakening the immune system.

The benefits of high-protein diets for older dogs

Studies show that feeding high-protein diets to geriatric dogs can slow down and even reverse muscle loss. Bone and immune strength also benefit from high-protein diets. Even dogs with kidney disease that are often treated with low-protein diets benefit from high-protein diets. Preservation of the musculature in these patients provides a better quality of life. Kidney patients generally only need severe protein restrictions in the advanced or terminal stages of kidney failure.

How Much Protein Do Geriatric Dogs Need?

Studies suggest that diets containing a minimum of 24% protein are appropriate for the aging dog. Because we don’t know exactly how ineffective protein digestion and absorption is in older dogs, 24% may still be inadequate. A diet with 27-30% provides a greater margin of safety. It is difficult to find commercial dog food with these levels of protein for adult and senior dogs. However, well-crafted homemade dog food recipes can easily meet these protein requirements. Always check with your vet before switching to a high protein diet to make sure it is suitable for your older dog.