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Nutrients

Magnesium in Dog Food

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One of the earliest research I found on Magnesium deficiency in puppies dates back to 1961 which is pretty cool considering that Illinois-based AAFCO wasn’t even big at this time. Pet food regulation was still in its nascent stages.

The study’s literature quoted other studies that had found Magnesium to be essential in calcification and proper bone development in animals. It also noted that this was the first time Magnesium levels were being looked at in pet foods.

At the time of the 1961 study, there were only two types of magnesium available for use in animal feed: oxide and sulfate. The research conducted then showed that magnesium oxide was absorbed less by puppies than magnesium sulfate.

Magnesium makes up 2% of the earth’s crust and is the 8th most abundant element in the universe. In the animal kingdom, magnesium is found in all living cells and plays a vital role in over 300 biochemical reactions, including energy production, DNA synthesis, and protein formation.

What is Magnesium in dog food?

Magnesium is an essential mineral for dogs. It’s involved in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including helping to maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeping heart rhythm steady, supporting a healthy immune system, and keeping bones strong.

Benefits of Magnesium in Dog Food

Let’s go through these functions step by step to understand the importance of this mineral.

 Energy metabolism:

Magnesium is required for the proper metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. It helps to convert blood sugar into energy and is needed for the proper function of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the energy “currency” of the body.

ATP is essential for many cellular processes, including muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, and gene expression.

Protein synthesis:

Magnesium is required for the proper synthesis of proteins from amino acids. Proteins are the building blocks of all cells, tissues, and organs in the body. Synthesis is the process by which the cells create new proteins from amino acids which are in a form useful to the dog’s body.

Nerve function:

Magnesium is needed for proper nerve function. It helps to maintain normal muscle tone and supports the transmission of nerve impulses. Magnesium also plays a role in regulating calcium levels in the body, which is important for proper muscle contraction.

DNA and RNA synthesis:

Magnesium is required for the proper synthesis of DNA and RNA. DNA is the genetic material that contains the instructions for all the proteins in the body. RNA is similar to DNA but plays a different role in cell function. It helps to create proteins from the instructions in DNA.

Bone health:

Magnesium is needed for the proper development and maintenance of bones. It helps to regulate calcium levels in the body and is required for the proper absorption of vitamin D, which is important for bone health. Magnesium also plays a role in the formation of new bone tissue.

Immune system function:

Magnesium is needed for a healthy immune system. It helps to regulate inflammation in the body and is required for the proper function of white blood cells, which are important for fighting infection.

What are the signs/symptoms of magnesium deficiency in dogs?

The signs of magnesium deficiency vary depending on the severity of the deficiency. mild deficiencies may cause no signs, while more severe deficiencies can cause muscle weakness, tremors, seizures, and difficulty breathing.

Muscle weakness:

Magnesium is required for proper muscle function. A deficiency can cause muscle weakness, tremors, and difficulty moving.

Tremors:

A magnesium deficiency can cause involuntary muscle contractions and tremors. Tremors are often most noticeable in the muscles of the face, head, and neck.

Seizures:

Seizures are a serious symptom of magnesium deficiency. They occur when there is a sudden change in electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Difficulty breathing:

Magnesium is required for proper muscle function, including the muscles used for breathing. A deficiency can cause difficulty breathing and respiratory distress.

How is magnesium deficiency diagnosed?

Magnesium deficiency is typically diagnosed based on the signs and symptoms present. Your veterinarian may also recommend blood and urine tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of magnesium deficiency includes supplementation with oral or injectable magnesium. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Prevention of magnesium deficiency includes providing a diet that contains an adequate amount of magnesium. Commercial dog foods typically contain enough magnesium to meet the needs of most dogs. However, some dogs may require a diet with higher levels of magnesium if they are pregnant or nursing, or if they have certain medical conditions. Consult your veterinarian to determine if your dog needs a special diet.

Dietary Sources of Magnesium

There are many good dietary sources of magnesium, including dark leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. You can also find magnesium supplements at most health food stores.

Leafy vegetables:

Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens are good sources of magnesium.

Nuts and seeds:

Almonds, cashews, and pumpkin seeds are all good sources of magnesium.

Whole grains:

Whole wheat flour, oatmeal, and brown rice are all good sources of magnesium.

Magnesium supplements:

You can find magnesium supplements at most health food stores. Look for a supplement that contains magnesium citrate, glycinate, or oxide.

The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for magnesium is 300-400 mg per day for adults.

Pregnant and nursing women need slightly more magnesium, about 350-450 mg per day.

The RDA for dogs is 5-10 mg/kg of body weight per day.

For example, a 50-pound dog would need 250-500 mg of magnesium per day.

Most commercial dog foods contain enough magnesium to meet the needs of most dogs. However, some dogs may require a diet with higher levels of magnesium if they are pregnant or nursing, or if they have certain medical conditions. Consult your veterinarian to determine if your dog needs a special diet.

How much Magnesium does my dog need?

The amount of magnesium your dog needs depends on their age, weight, and health. Puppies and adult dogs need different amounts of magnesium, and sick or pregnant dogs may need more than healthy adult dogs.

On a dry matter basis, your dog should get 0.06 percent for growing dogs and adult maintenance, according to AAFCO guidelines as shown and highlighted on the AAFCO table below;

On a caloric basis, your dog should get 1.8 mg for growing dogs and 1.25 mg for adult maintenance, according to AAFCO guidelines as shown and highlighted on the AAFCO table below;

Best High Calorie Dog Food 2022

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Active dogs need a lot of energy to maintain their high level of activity. calories are the units of energy that all food contains. Therefore, high-calorie dog food is a food that contains a higher amount of calories than a standard or average food.

This study demonstrated that active dogs such as sled or exercise require dog food that is high in fat and sourcing 50% of its energy from fats was most ideal for them. Fat has a high-calorie density and is a great source of energy for dogs. The study also found that 30% of the energy in a high-calorie diet should be sourced from high-protein diets in order to prevent high-activity-induced anemia.

How to determine energy requirements for dogs that need a high-calorie diet;

Calculate your dog’s Resting Energy Requirement (RER) which can be done by multiplying your dog’s body weight in kilograms by 30 and adding 70 for medium-sized dogs;

  • 30 x (body weight in kilograms) + 70 = RER for medium-sized dogs and cats

For a 15kg dog, the formula would be;

  • 30 x 15 + 70 = 470
  • 470 is the RER for a 15kg dog.

Use the following formula to calculate your dog’s total Minimum energy requirements(MER);

  • MER = RER x Signalment Factor x Activity Level Factor x Body Condition Score (BCS)

A dog with an RER of 470 would require the following amount of calories per day;

  • 470 x 1.8 (Intact adult dog – Signalment Factor) x 1.6 (Vet high – Activity Level Factor) x 1 (Ideal – Body Condition Score) = 1353.6
  • 1,353.6 is the total MER for a 15kg dog that requires a high-calorie diet.
table and Chart showing RER calculator for dog food calorie intake
Table and Chart showing RER calculator for dog food calorie intake

Below is how you can use the table above to decide if your dog needs a high-calorie diet. First find the RER then use the multiples above to determine the exact high-calorie diet for weight gain;

  • 30 x (body weight in kilograms) + 70 = RER for medium-sized dogs and cats

If your dog has 35 pounds, convert the body weight to kg by dividing by 2.2 pounds = 15.9 kg;

  • Using the formula above, your dog’s Resting Energy Requirements(RER): 35*15.9+70=626.5

Use the RER tables in the chart above to come up with the daily energy requirement for high-energy dogs. The chart above shows that you can use 4 to 8 multiple.

The range of daily canine intake for a high-calorie diet is 2506 kcal/day to 5012 kcal/day but some recognize 3759 kcal/day which is a 6x RER multiple[6-8*RER].

The table below shows the calorie to feed your dog to achieve the ideal weight;

The table below shows the calorie to feed your dog to achieve the ideal weight;
Table showing calories you need to feed your dog to achieve the ideal weight and avoid letting them become overweight from dense-calorie diets.

Factors to Consider when choosing the best high-calorie dog food:

  • High-fat diet: Fat has a score of 9 on the Kcal/g scale making it one of the most calorie-dense nutrients. Fats are a great source of energy for dogs and should make up 50% of the calories in a high-calorie diet. Fat is easy to oxidize and is compared to other sources such as protein which has a score of 4 on the Kcal/g scale.
  • High-protein diet: Protein has a score of 5 on the Kcal/g scale making it a less calorie-dense nutrient than fat. Protein should make up 30% of the calories in a high-calorie diet. However, as the study described above highlighted, it is important to have a balance as protein is the main source of the 10 essential amino acids that dogs need to get them from their diet.
  • Ingredients quality: Another factor to consider when choosing a high-calorie diet is the quality of the ingredients. The best high-calorie dog foods will have quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, or fish meal as the first ingredient followed by quality fats such as chicken fat or flaxseed oil. The carbohydrates in the food should be complex rather than simple. Some good complex carbohydrates for dogs include sweet potatoes, peas, and brown rice.
  • Avoid fillers: Fillers are ingredients that have little to no nutritional value such as corn, wheat, and soy. These ingredients are used to bulk up the food and make it cheaper to produce. Dogs do not digest fillers very well and they can actually cause health problems such as allergies and digestive issues.
  • Choose a food that is right for your dog’s life stage: Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs all have different nutritional needs. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs because they are growing and their metabolism is faster with some breeds needing up to 5 times the calories needed by their adult parents. Senior dogs need fewer calories than adult dogs because they are less active and their metabolism has slowed down.
  • Check the label: The label on pet food can be very confusing but there are certain key things you should look for. First, check the guaranteed analysis which must show the minimum percentage of crude protein and fat and the maximum percentage of crude fiber and moisture. Next, look at the ingredient list and make sure the first ingredient is a quality protein source followed by quality fats. Finally, check the food for any red flags such as fillers, artificial ingredients, or recalls.

How we ranked high-calorie dog diets in our list of best high-calorie dog food;

Dog food that is high in calories is important for some dogs but it is not suitable for all dogs. We ranked the best high-calorie dog foods based on the following criteria and scoring;

  1. 35% for diets that meet the classification of high-calorie diet: We awarded a 30% score for diets that have 600 calories or more per cup. This is the minimum amount of calories needed for high-calorie dog foods.
  2. 25% for nutrient-rich: We awarded a 5% score for diets that are nutrient-rich in that they meet the minimum AAFCO recommendation of 18% protein and 5.5% fat for adult dogs and 22.5% protein and 10% fat for puppies. This means that the food contains all the essential nutrients your dog needs including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. We also evaluated Omega 3, Omega 6, Calcium, Phosphorus, and Ca:P levels
  3. 15% for digestibility: We awarded a 5% score for diets that are highly digestible. This means that the food is easy for your dog to digest and absorb the nutrients. With high fat and protein content, some brands use ingredients with lower digestibility scores including vegetable oils and this reduces the number of nutrients your dog will get from the high-calorie diet.
  4. 15%Key ingredients and chemicals: Some protein sources such as beef lack some essential amino acids that dogs meet while fish and chicken have all the right proportions of amino acids. In addition, some ingredients have an imbalance in Calcium: Phosphorus and Omega 6 to 3 ratio that is known to cause significant health problems and significantly reduced the lifespans of high-energy dogs being fed high-calorie diets. Zinc and other minerals such as copper sulfate, and ferrous sulfate are added to some kibbles to prevent deficiencies.
  5. 10% for no recalls: We awarded a 5% score for diets that have not been recalled in the past 3 years. 5% for high-quality ingredients: We awarded a 5% score for diets that use high-quality ingredients such as meat, fish, and vegetables. We did not award any points to brands that
  6. -5% for additives, preservatives, and sweeteners: Some chemical preservatives such as BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin are used in dry dog food to increase the shelf life of the product but have been linked to cancer and other health problems. We did not award any points to brands that use these ingredients.
  7. -5% for by-products and up to -5% for problematic ingredients: We do not recommend feeding your dog high-calorie diets that contain by-products such as meat meal, animal fat, or chicken meal. These ingredients are low in nutrients and can be harmful to your dog’s health. We also reduce up to 5 points for dog food recipes that contained problematic ingredients such as canola oil, soybean oil, sodium selenite, sodium hexametaphosphate, and carrageenan, among others.

Comparison of our Best High-Calorie Dog Food Diets

Name of High-Calorie Diet;Best for;Features;OurPets HQ Rating:
Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gain Dog FoodOverall best weight-gain high calorie diet-600 cal/cup
-31% protein and 25% fat with an F:P ratio of 80%- (considered high)		85%
Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real ChickenBest Raw high-calorie dog food-518 cal/cup
-37% protein and 20% fat with an F:P ratio of 54%- (moderate)		71%
Tomlyn NutriCal Tube Dog 4.25ozBest high-calorie dog food supplement-Calorie content (ME) is 4760 kcal/kg or 28 kcal per teaspoon.Not rated as dog food.

Best High-Calorie Dog Food Reviews

Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gain Dog Food

Our overall high-calorie dog food diet meets our top six requirements as it has 600 Calories per cup and can be healthy if you want pooch to gain weight fast without exposing them to the risk of obesity. Balanced nutrition drew us to this kibble as it has 31% protein coming from real meat sources and 25% fat. In addition, this food is AAFCO compliant for all life stages, providing adequate nutrition for puppies, adult dogs, and seniors.

All the other ingredients in the market have an average of 320 calories per cup. This makes this brand 46% energy-dense compared to all its competitors. In addition, you can rely on this kibble having been formulated by Dr. Christine Priest, who is part of the nutritionist team that formulated in an FDA-registered facility that meets all safety and health regulations.

Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gain Dog Food, the overall best high-calorie dog food in 2022 list by OurPets HQ team
Miracle Vet High-Calorie Weight Gain Dog Food

In addition, this dog food brand comes with 8 health benefits, including healthy weight gain, prebiotics & probiotics for improved digestion, Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health, and added antioxidants for immune system support, glucosamine & chondroitin to support joints, and more!

Prebiotics and probiotics are included for improved digestion, and the kibble is easy to chew and digest. It is also made with no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. The first five ingredients are deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, peas, and cracked pearled barley.

Pros:

  1. -46% more energy-dense than average-Formulated by a nutritionist
  2. -Made in the USA
  3. -8 health benefits
  4. An 85% score as the best high-calorie diet with balanced nutrition for all stages.

Cons:

  1. Contain some problematic ingredients including dried beet pulp and brewers dried yeast. Beet pulp is a common allergen in dogs, and brewers dried yeast can cause digestive upset in some dogs.

Possible health problems associated with this diet:

Dogs eating this diet may experience digestive upset due to the inclusion of dried beet pulp and brewers dried yeast. Some dogs may also be allergic to ingredients such as chicken or corn.

Bottom line:

This is an excellent high-calorie diet for dogs who need to gain weight quickly. It is made with high-quality ingredients and provides balanced nutrition for all life stages. However, it does contain some problematic ingredients that may cause digestive upset in some dogs.

Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken

Our second pick in this list of best high-calorie died didn’t quite get to 600 calories per cup but got close enough with 518 cal/cup. This is the best raw and high-calorie diet by Instinct Original and is called Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken. The kibble is made with Cage-Free deboned chicken as the first ingredient followed by peas and tapioca starch. It has 37% Crude Protein and 20% Crude Fat.

Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food, 22.5-lb bag slide 1 of 9

This formula is grain-free, which is ideal for dogs that are allergic or sensitive to grains. In addition, it is GMO-free and does not contain any soy, wheat, corn, by-products, artificial colors, or preservatives.

Aside from scoring less in the top ranking factor that we assigned 30% for having 600 cal/cup, this brand did well in most other 6 factors including having 70% real animal ingredients and healthy oil and 30% wholesome ingredients with veggies and fruits. A truly balanced high-calorie diet that will get your pup gaining healthy weight in no time.

The kibble is also freeze-dried raw to maintain the nutritional benefits of a raw diet without the hassle or mess. Just add water and serve!

Pros:

  • Truly balanced high-calorie diet
  • Grain-free and GMO-free
  • Made with Cage-Free deboned chicken
  • Freeze-dried raw to maintain nutritional benefits

Cons:

  • Does not contain 600 cal/cup per serving
  • Uses peas as the first 5 ingredients. Peas are a problematic ingredient for some dogs as they can cause digestive upset. It is also not an ideal source of problems compared to chicken, fish which should appear in the top 5. Peas are a good source of carbs though and may not be necessary bad on this list of high-carbs and energy-dense diets for dogs;

Tomlyn NutriCal Tube Dog 4.25oz

To supplement your dog’s diet, we’ve included TomlynNutriCal Tube Dog 0.25 pounds as one of the best high-calorie products on our list as it is an appetite stimulant and has a possible impact on inducing your dog to go on a ‘munching spree’ and packing up those calories. This is a high-calorie gel that can be given orally or mixed with your dog’s food.

Tomlyn NutriCal Tube Dog 4.25oz
Tomlyn NutriCal Tube Dog 4.25oz

Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken is an extremely palatable, nutrient-rich oral gel for dogs who need extra calories and vitamins. It’s ideal for finicky or aging dogs and those recovering from illness or surgery.

The gel has a smooth texture that makes it easy to use and helps ensure acceptance by your dog. The high-calorie formula contains over 160 calories per teaspoon, including a natural appetite stimulant. This recipe also provides added nutrients like taurine, Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, and glucosamine to help maintain healthy skin and coat, support joint health, and more.

Additional Guide on the Best High-Calorie Dense Diets for Dogs:

What is a high-calorie dog diet?

A dog diet with at least 600 calories per cup is considered high calories. This level of calories is needed for dogs who are very active, working dogs, growing puppies, and pregnant or nursing mothers. If your dog is eating a high-calorie diet and not getting the proper amount of exercise, they may become overweight which can lead to health problems such as joint problems, diabetes, and respiratory issues.

Which ingredients are calorie-rich; grain-gree or grain-inclusive diets?

Grain-free diets are usually higher in calories because they contain more fat and protein. Grain-inclusive diets can also be high in calories depending on the ingredients used.

There have been controversies surrounding grain-free diets as they have been linked to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs as reported in this FDA investigation.

Chart showing the number of DCM cases reported to FDA from Jan 2014 to April 2019; Credit: FDA
Chart showing the number of DCM cases reported to FDA from Jan 2014 to April 2019; Credit: FDA

When deciding whether to go for a grain-free or grain-inclusive diet, it is important to consider the positive aspect of potential energy-dense diets from grains but also possible health issues such as allergens present in gluten grain diets such as wheat and the uncovered risk linking grain-free diets with DCM. If your dog is at approaching old age, consider grain-inclusive diets with no links to DCM but go do avoid high-calorie dense diets for older dogs.

Below are the dog breed’s susceptibility to DCM as per the cases that were reported to FDA;

Table showing breeds most frequently reported to FDA for having been affected with DCM
Table showing breeds most frequently reported to FDA for having been affected with DCM

Types of dog food for high-calorie dog food;

High-calorie Dry dog food;

Pros:
  • Variety of protein options
  • Long shelf life
  • Readily available
  • Relatively cheaper
  • Easier to feed and not messy
Cons:
  • Higher in carbohydrates
  • Can contain fillers
  • Kibble may not be soft and chewable for puppies and senior dogs that have missing teeth.

Wet dog food;

Pros:
  • Usually have a higher meat content
  • often grain-free
Cons:
  • Can be expensive
  • Must be refrigerated
  • High digestibility

Complications brought when feeding high-calories goes wrong;

Statistics indicate that up to 60% of all dogs in the US are considered obese by their veterinarians. That’s a startling statistic when you think about it. And, even more disturbingly, the number of obese dogs seems to be on the rise.

As with humans, obesity in dogs can lead to all sorts of health problems, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Respiratory difficulties
  • And more…

What’s more, fat dogs don’t live as long as their leaner canine counterparts. One study found that overweight dogs live an average of 1.8 years less than dogs of normal weight.

So, if you’re feeding your dog high-calorie foods, it’s crucial that you monitor their weight and activity level closely. If they start to gain weight, cut back on the calories and/or increase their exercise.

High-Calorie Supplements:

You can try using calorie supplements to specifically provide the following in boost caloric intake;

  • Antioxidants: In a high-calorie diet, your dog will have to metabolize the food and break it down to nutrients and minerals it can actually utilize. Unfortunately, this process produces by-products called free radicals that damage cells in the body. Because of this reason, a high-calorie diet should have antioxidants or can be supplemented with antioxidant supplements over the counter to help to protect cells from free radical damage.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Fatty acids have a wide range of health benefits for dogs including reducing inflammation, supporting the immune system, and improving cognitive function.
  • Probiotics: this help keep the digestive tract healthy and can improve gut motility (the movement of food through the digestive tract) which is important for dogs on a high-calorie diet.
  • Canned pumpkin: This is a great source of fiber that can help to regulate digestion, especially in dogs that are prone to diarrhea.
  • Digestive enzymes: These can help to improve the digestion of a high-calorie diet and make sure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need from their food.

Pros of supplements:

  1. Easily available
  2. Inexpensive
  3. Can be tailored to your dog’s specific needs

Cons of supplements:

  • It may be unnecessary if you are feeding a complete and balanced diet
  • It may interact with other medications your dog is taking
  • Should be used under the guidance of a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist
  • May not be in a hydrolyzed state where nutrients can be easily utilized by the body
  • Some dogs don’t like the taste

Transitioning from a low or medium-calorie diet to a high-calorie diet; Steps:

  • 1. Start by mixing 25% of the high-calorie food with 75% of the low or medium-calorie food.
  • 2. Gradually increase the amount of high-calorie food while decreasing the amount of low or medium-calorie food over a period of 7 to 10 days until your dog is only eating the high-calorie food.
  • 3. Monitor your dog closely during the transition period and make sure they are doing well before making any changes to the diet. If you notice any of the following problems, stop the transition and contact your veterinarian:
    • Diarrhea
    • Vomiting
    • Lethargy
    • Decreased
    • appetite Weight loss
  • 4. After your dog has successfully transitioned to the high-calorie diet, continue to monitor their weight and make sure they are maintaining a healthy body condition.
  • 5. If you notice your dog starting to gain weight, decrease the amount of food you are feeding or switch to a lower-calorie food.

Best Dog Food for Zinc Deficiency

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Best Dog Foods for Zinc Deficiency

I recently wrote about zinc and its importance for dogs. Zinc is an essential mineral for dogs and is necessary for their immune system, skin and coat health, and proper growth. While most dogs get enough zinc in their diet, some may be zinc deficient. This can happen if they are not eating a well-balanced diet or if they are losing zinc through diarrhea or other medical conditions.

What is Zinc?

Zinc is a mineral that is found in food and in the environment. It is necessary for the proper growth and development of the body’s cells, tissues, and organs. Zinc is also needed for the body to make enzymes and hormones. Enzymes are substances that help chemical reactions occur in the body. Hormones are chemicals that help to regulate the body’s activities.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for zinc is 8 mg/day for adults. The RDA for children and adolescents is 3-12 mg/day depending on age and gender.

Humans get zinc from food. Good sources of zinc include meat, seafood, poultry, nuts, and seeds. Whole grains and legumes (beans) also contain zinc, but the zinc in these foods is not as easily absorbed by the body as the zinc in animal-based foods.

Dogs get zinc from their diet as well. The best source of zinc for dogs is animal-based protein, such as meat, poultry, and fish. Zinc is also found in small amounts in some plant foods, such as grains and beans.

AAFCO Zinc Requirements

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is a voluntary organization that develops guidelines for animal feed and pet food. The AAFCO does not regulate or enforce these guidelines, but many states use them as the basis for their own laws and regulations.

The AAFCO Zinc Requirements for dogs are 100mg/kg for puppies and 80mg/kg for adult dogs.

Compared to all other minerals, zinc has the narrowest margin of safety between deficiency and toxicity levels. Zinc is considered toxic at levels above 300 mg/kg in dogs.

Signs of Zinc Deficiency in Dogs

The signs of zinc deficiency vary depending on the age of the dog. Puppies may have stunted growth, skin problems, and diarrhea. Adult dogs may have a dull coat, skin problems, and decreased appetite.

Factors that Decrease Zinc Absorption

There are several factors that can decrease the amount of zinc that is absorbed by the body. These include:

-Certain medical conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and short bowel syndrome

-Diarrhea

-Malabsorption syndromes

-Burns

-Pregnancy and lactation

Recommended Amounts of Zinc for Dogs

The recommended amount of zinc for dogs varies depending on the age and health status of the dog. Puppies and adult dogs who are healthy and eating a well-balanced diet usually get enough zinc from their food. Dogs with medical conditions that decrease zinc absorption may need to take a zinc supplement.

Zinc supplements are available in many forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids. The best form of zinc for dogs is chelated zinc. This form of zinc is easier for the body to absorb than other forms.

The recommended dose of zinc for dogs is 2-4 mg/kg of body weight per day. For example, a 10 kg (22 lb) dog would need 20-40 mg of zinc per day.

Factors to Consider When Picking the Best Dog Food for Zinc Deficiency

Protein: Look for a food that is high in animal-based protein, such as meat, poultry, or fish. Poultry and fish are our favorite protein sources as they are very digestible and contain all the essential amino acids. They are also low in fat and calories.

Fats: Fats are an important source of energy for dogs. They also help to absorption of some vitamins and minerals. The best sources of fat for dogs are animal-based fats, such as chicken fat or fish oil. Avoid plant-based fats such as soybean oil as they are not as easily absorbed by the body.

Carbohydrates: Dogs get most of their energy from carbohydrates. The best sources of carbohydrates for dogs are whole grains, such as brown rice, oats, and barley. Avoid processed carbs, such as white flour and sugar, as they can be hard for the body to digest.

Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins and minerals are essential to the health of dogs. Look for a food that contains all the essential vitamins and minerals, including zinc. Foods that are fortified with vitamins and minerals are a good choice.

Zinc content: Look at the zinc content of the food. The AAFCO Zinc Requirements for dogs are 100mg/kg for puppies and 80mg/kg for adult dogs. Choose a food that meets or exceeds these requirements.

Ingredients: Not all ingredients are created equal. The quality of the ingredients in a food can make a big difference in the nutrition it provides. Look for foods that contain high-quality ingredients, such as meat, poultry, or fish. Avoid foods that contain fillers, such as corn or wheat.

Synthetic additives: Synthetic additives, such as preservatives and flavorings, are not necessary for the health of dogs. In fact, they can be harmful to their health. Look for foods that do not contain synthetic additives. Go for zinc-containing dog food without any synthetic additives.

Organic: Organically-grown ingredients are free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. They are also more nutritious than conventionally-grown ingredients. Choose organic food if possible.

Best Dog food for Zinc Deficiency:

  • Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free 
  • American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free 
  • Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula 
  • Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe with Bison Grain-Free 
  • Zignature Kangaroo Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Reviews of the Best Dog food for Zinc Deficiency:

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free 

Our overall best pick for the best dog food for zinc deficiency is Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free. This food is grain-free and features a novel protein source, bison, as the first ingredient. It also contains a variety of other nutrient-rich ingredients, such as sweet potatoes, peas, and carrots.

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 14-lb bag slide 1 of 7
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free 

This roasted bison and venison dry dog food is crafted with real meat as the #1 ingredient and is high in protein (32%) to help support bones, joints and lean muscles. Crafted with vitamins and minerals from real fruits and superfoods, omega fatty acids for skin and coat health and nutrients for the energy your furry friend needs thrive!

This premium kibble is packed with species-specific K9 Strain Proprietary Probiotics, antioxidants and prebiotics to help support healthy digestion, immune system health and overall health and wellness in your pup. Plus, it’s made in the USA by a family-owned brand that never uses grains, corn, wheat, artificial flavors or artificial colors.

American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato

American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe is a grain-free dog food that features salmon, sweet potatoes and other nutritious fruits and vegetables. This pet food is formulated to provide the nutrition your dog needs for everyday health maintenance, plus it’s free of corn, wheat and soy ingredients to help sensitive pets avoid fillers that could upset their stomach. The formula includes antioxidants like Vitamin E, which supports immune system function. Blueberries are sources of phytonutrients that offer antioxidant support for the body.

American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 24-lb bag slide 1 of 9
American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato

American Journey Salmon and Sweet Potato is a high-protein dog food that your pup will love. Made with real, deboned salmon, this dog food provides amino acids to help maintain lean muscle mass. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids from salmon oil and flaxseed support skin and coat health as well as brain and eye development in growing puppies. Fiber-rich chickpeas and sweet potatoes provide energy throughout every adventure.

Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Formula is complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs that are prone to skin or stomach sensitivities. This easily-digestible dog food is crafted without corn, wheat or soy. The high-protein recipe features real, nutrient-rich salmon as the very first ingredient.

This grain-free dog food formula has been specially designed to nurture your sidekick’s sensitive skin and stomach with added omega 6 fatty acids, live probiotics and prebiotic fiber to support healthy digestion and immunity.

Essential Amino Acids in Pet Food Proteins

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essential amino acids in dogs and cats

Different proteins used in the manufacturer of dog and cat food have a varying number of amino acids and it is essential to understand the amino acids contained in various protein sources.

Types of Amino Acids:

There are two types of amino acids- essential and nonessential.

Essential amino acids cannot be made by the body and must be obtained from food sources. Nonessential amino acids can be made by the body, but it is best to get them from food sources as well.

List of 20 amino acids

Below are the 20 amino acids;

Alanine, Arginine, Asparagine, Aspartic acid, Cysteine, Glutamic acid, Glutamine, Glycine, Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Serine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Tyrosine.

There are 10 essential amino acids for dogs: Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Valine. Proteins that contain all of the essential amino acids in adequate amounts are considered to be “high quality” proteins.

Importance of amino acids

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and perform a variety of functions in the body, including:

– Acting as enzymes (proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the body)

– Building and repairing tissue

– Regulating metabolism

– Assisting in hormone production

– Boosting the immune system

– Helping to carry oxygen in the blood

Essential amino acids are important for many reasons, but some of the most important functions include:

– Building muscle tissue

– Repairing damaged tissue

– Regulating metabolism

– Boosting the immune system

Amino Acid Deficiency

A deficiency in any one of the essential amino acids can lead to a variety of health problems, including:

– Muscle weakness

– Fatigue

– Poor wound healing

– Immune system deficiency

– Hormonal imbalances

List of 10 Essential Amino Acids for Dogs

There are a total of 20 amino acids used by the body- 9 of which are essential for dogs. The 10 essential amino acids for dogs are:

  1. Arginine
  2. histidine,
  3. isoleucine,
  4. leucine,
  5. lysine,
  6. methionine,
  7. phenylalanine,
  8. threonine,
  9. tryptophan,
  10. valine.

The 11 essential amino acids for cats are:

  1. taurine,
  2. arginine,
  3. histidine,
  4. isoleucine,
  5. leucine,
  6. lysine,
  7. methionine,
  8. phenylalanine,
  9. threonine,
  10. tryptophan, and
  11. valine

As you can see cats have 11 essential amino acids and cats generally have higher requirements for proteins and amino acids than dogs.

Let me explain what the amino acid is and the importance of each amino acid, starting with dog’s amino acids;

Importance of essential amino acids for dogs:

  1. Histidine: This is an amino acid that helps with the growth and repair of tissue. Sources of histidine are animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.
  2. Isoleucine: This is an amino acid that helps with the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Sources of isoleucine are animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.
  3. Leucine: This is an amino acid that helps with the growth and repair of muscle tissue.
  4. Lysine: This is an amino acid that helps with the absorption of calcium and the production of collagen (a protein that helps give structure to bones and connective tissue). Dogs get lysine from animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.
  5. Methionine: This is an amino acid that helps with the absorption of copper and zinc, and the production of cartilage. Sources of methionine are animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.
  6. Phenylalanine: This is an amino acid that helps with the production of dopamine and norepinephrine (hormones that affect mood). Sources of phenylalanine are animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.
  7. Threonine: This is an amino acid that helps with the production of collagen and elastin (proteins that give structure to skin and connective tissue). Sources of threonine are animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.
  8. Tryptophan: This is an amino acid that helps with the production of serotonin (a hormone that affects mood). Sources of tryptophan are animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.
  9. Valine: This is an amino acid that helps with the growth and repair of muscle tissue. Sources of valine are animal protein sources such as meat, poultry, and fish.

How much Amino Acids do Dogs need?

AAFCO has specifications on how much of each essential amino acid dogs need in their diet and the ideal ratio of amino acids. For example, for every 100 grams of protein in a food, it should contain at least:

– 2.5 grams of arginine to puppies and min of 1.28 grams for adult dogs

– 1.1 grams of histidine to puppies and min of 0.48 grams for adult dogs

– 1.78 grams of isoleucine to puppies and min of 0.95 grams for adult dogs

– 3.23 grams of leucine to puppies and min of 1.7 grams for adult dogs

– 2.25 grams of lysine to puppies and min of 1.58 grams for adult dogs

– 0.88 grams of methionine to puppies and min of 0.83 grams for adult dogs

– 1.75 grams of methioninand cysteine combined to puppies and min of 1.63 grams for adult dogs

– Min of 2.08 grams of phenylalanine to puppies and min of 1.13 grams for adult dogs

– 2.60 grams of threonine to puppies and min of 1.2 grams for adult dogs

– 0.5 grams of tryptophan to puppies and min of 0.4 grams for adult dogs

– 1.7 grams of valine to puppies and min of 1.23 grams for adult dogs

Puppies need more amino acids than adult dogs because they are growing and developing. Adult dogs need about 18% protein in their diet, while puppies need 22-24% protein.

How much amino acids do cats need?

AAFCO has set the minimum and maximum amino acids to be included in cat food and below are the amounts required for every 100 grams of protein in a food. Cat food should contain at least;

  • 3.1 grams of arginine for kittens and 2.6 g for adult cats
  • 0.83 grams of arginine for histidine and 0.78 g for adult cats
  • 1.4 grams of isoleucine for kittens and 1.3 g for adult cats
  • 3.2 grams of leucine for kittens and 3.1 g for adult cats
  • 3 grams of lysine for kittens and 2.08 g for adult cats
  • 1.55 grams of methionine for kittens and 0.55 g for adult cats. Methiodine should never exceed 3.75 grams for every 100 grams of protein.

The table below shows various sources of amino acids in dog food as per the NRC research in 2006.

The Digestability of various amino acids varies with beef having amino acids that have the highest digestability. See the table below for digestability percentages in small interstines.

Protein complementation 

Some protein sources are lacking some amino acids and are complemented by mixing with other proteins with the lacking ingredients. See the table below;

Tryptophan Amino Acid and Symptoms of Deficiency

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Importance of Tryptophan & Deficiency Symptoms in Dogs and Cats

The importance of tryptophan in pet food was largely ignored until 2000 when DeNapoli JS, Dodman NH, Shuster L, et al. wrote a study showing how dogs fed diets with this amino acid reduced their aggression.

In our evaluation of dog food brands, we look at the composition of amino acids. This will give some insight as to how complete the diet is for a growing puppy or an adult dog.

What is Tryptophan amino acid:

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid. This means that your pet’s body cannot produce it and it must be supplied through their diet. Tryptophan has been studied for its role in helping to reduce anxiety and improve mood.

Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. A deficiency of tryptophan can lead to behavioral problems such as aggression and anxiety.

Is Tryptophan a solution to dog anxiety? What Research says:

Study #1:

In the Netherlands, Beerda and her colleagues from Wageningen University released a study of 138 dogs who suffered from anxiety-related behavioral problems. The control group consisted of half the dogs and were fed standard dog food and the other half were given dog food supplemented with L-tryptophan.

The study found that supplementing L-tryptophan had no effect in reducing anxiety-related behaviors in dogs.  Read the study here

Study #2:

Another 2016 study with 29 dogs was aimed at finding out if Tryptophan could improve abnormal-repetitive behavior in dogs. The study concluded that “supplementing L-tryptophan had no effects on the intensity or frequency of abnormal/repetitive behaviors”

Study #3:

A 2012 study found a small improvement in anxiety-related behaviors. It is, however, important to note that the dog food in the study was supplemented with L-tryptophan and alpha-capsazepine (a peptide found in milk protein) – not just L-tryptophan.

What does this mean to you as a pet owner?

Given that 2 of the studies claimed that tryptophan does not improve anxiety or behavioral problems in cats and dogs, and one study showed a small improvement – it is fair to say that more research needs to be done in this area.

If your dog is anxious, speak with your veterinarian about possible solutions as there are many things that can help including supplements, changes in diet, and training.

If your dog or cat is anxious, I don’t think it hurts to try it out as FDA has approved various supplements with L-tryptophan. FDA has evaluated L-tryptophan and found it to be a safe supplement for cats and dogs.

Sources of L-tryptophan:

L-tryptophan is found in animal proteins such as turkey, chicken, and beef. It is also found in some plant proteins such as soybeans and pumpkin seeds.

Benefits of Tryptophan:

The production of serotonin from tryptophan is one of the benefits associated with this amino acid. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood, sleep, and appetite.

Another benefit of tryptophan is that it can help to improve cognitive function. A study in 2016 found that L-tryptophan supplementation improved memory and learning in aged rats.

How much tryptophan to feed dog?

AAFCo recommends that you give tryptophan to your puppy 0.20% on a dry matter basis and 0.16% to adult dogs

How much tryptophan to give cat?

AAFCO recommends that you give a min of 0.25% of tryptophan to kittens, min of 0.16% to adult cats and a max of 1.7% to older cats as shown in the table below

Do senior cats need tryptophan more?

Tryptophan is an important amino acid for senior cats. As cats age, they often suffer from cognitive decline and a decrease in serotonin levels. Supplementing with tryptophan can help to improve cognitive function and increase serotonin levels.

As you can see from the AAFCo recommendation above, senior cats need about 11 times those recommended from adult dogs and about 7 times more than the recommended amounts for kittens.

Tryptophan Deficiency Symptoms:

A deficiency of tryptophan can lead to behavioral problems such as aggression and anxiety. Supplementing with tryptophan has been shown to help reduce anxiety in some dogs.

Dog Food Brands with Tryptophan:

Tryptophan is not commonly found in dog food but there are a few brands that do include it. Here is a list of some dog food brands that include tryptophan:

  • Nature’s Variety Instinct
  • Orijen
  • Acana
  • Zignature
  • Fromm
  • Taste of the Wild
  • Blue Buffalo

1. DeNapoli JS, Dodman NH, Shuster L, et al. Effect of dietary protein content and tryptophan supplementation on dominance aggression, territorial aggression, and hyperactivity in dogs. J Amer Vet Med Assoc 2000; 217:504-508.

Histidine Amino Acid & Symptoms of Deficiency

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histidine in dog and cat food symtoms deficiency

Histidine is one of the essential amino acids recognized by AAFCO and pet food manufacturers are required to formulate a pet diet that includes Histidine. There are reasons for this recognition as essential amino acid and in this article, I’ll explain the benefits, sources, and deficiency symptoms for dogs and cats.

Why we evaluate protein sources of pet food by amino acid composition:

To be objective in our ranking of various dog and cat food recipes, we evaluate them based on their amino acid composition. In other words, we’re not looking at the “protein sources” as a whole (e.g. chicken, beef, lamb, etc.), but rather we’re looking at the individual amino acids that make up those proteins.

This is important because it’s the amino acids that are actually used by the body to build muscle, repair tissue, and perform all the other functions that require protein.

Let’s define amino acid better;

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and there are 20 different amino acids that can be combined to form a protein. Of these 20, 9 are essential for dogs and 11 are essential for cats. This means that the pet’s body cannot produce these amino acids and they must be obtained through the diet.

What is Histidine and where does it come from?

Histidine is an α-amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins. It contains a histamine group that is responsible for many of its biochemical activities. Dogs and cats can synthesize Histidine from other amino acids, but they still require dietary sources to meet their needs.

Histidine is required for the proper growth and development of all cells and tissue. It also plays an important role in the repair of damaged tissue. Histidine is also required for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood.

Histidine is found in animal proteins such as meat, fish, and poultry. It’s also found in egg whites and dairy products. Plant-based sources of Histidine are not as well absorbed as animal-based sources.

Sources of Histidine

Dietary sources of histidine for pets include meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Histidine is also found in some plant-based proteins such as beans and rice.

Chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and tuna are the main sources of histidine and other protein sources such as beef, lamb, pork, herring lack histidine.

The table below shows 9 protein sources and the three that contain histidine.

Image showing protein sources with and without arginineImage showing protein sources with and without arginine

How much histidine for dogs:

Following NRC recommendation to include Histidine as an essential amino acid, AAFCO has been recommending it as an essential amino acid since 2006.

For dogs, histidine are required in smaller quantities compared to arginine. In fact, only tryptophan and methionine match histidine in terms of small quanties recommended by AAFCO.

For growing dogs or puppies, AAFCO recommends 0.44% and 0.19% for adult dogs.

How much histidine for dogs:

Studies have shown histidine to prevent cat health issues such as cataracts.

AAFCO recommends giving kittens a minimum of 0.33% of histidine on dry matter basis and 0.31% to adult cats.

Benefits of Histidine for dogs and cats

Benefits of histidine for dogs include promoting healthy skin and coat, helping to heal wounds, and reducing inflammation. Histidine can also help to boost the immune system.

Histidine plays an important role in many biochemical reactions in the body, including:

– Acting as a precursor for histamine (involved in immune responses and gut function)

– Serving as a methyl donor (involved in DNA and RNA synthesis)

– Acting as an antioxidant (reducing inflammation and cell damage)

Benefits for cats are similar but also include reducing hairballs and promoting healthy digestion.

Histidine Deficiency symptoms in dogs and cats

A histidine deficiency can cause a number of health problems in dogs and cats, including:

– Anemia

– Slow growth

– Skin problems

– Muscle weakness

– Behavioral changes

If you think your pet may be deficient in histidine, please consult your veterinarian.

Supplementing with Histidine:

If you are feeding your pet a complete and balanced diet, there is no need to supplement with histidine. However, if your pet has a histidine deficiency, your veterinarian may recommend a histidine supplement.

Conclusion:

Histidine is an essential amino acid for dogs and cats. It’s important for growth, development, and repair of tissues. Histidine can also help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Dietary sources of histidine include meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.

References:

  • Quam, Darcy & Morris, James & Rogers, Quinton. (1987). Histidine requirement of kittens for growth, haematopoiesis and prevention of cataracts. The British journal of nutrition. 58. 521-32. 10.1079/BJN19870120.