Protein Bioavailability 101: Dog Edition

Proteins are important for dogs, impacting muscle growth, tissue repair, immune health, and overall vitality. But not all proteins are equal—some are more absorbable than others. This concept, known as protein bioavailability, determines how much of the protein in food can actually be used by your dog’s body. Let’s dive into protein bioavailability for dogs and learn how you can give your pup the best nutrition for a vibrant, healthy life.

Protein bioavailability refers to how well a dog’s body can absorb and use the protein in their food. High bioavailability means that a larger portion of the protein is usable, while lower bioavailability indicates that much of it may go to waste. Why does this matter? The more bioavailable the protein, the better it supports your dog’s health, from energy levels to strong muscles and shiny fur.

When selecting dog food, pet owners should consider protein bioavailability, which varies widely among different foods. Let’s sniff around these popular dog foods and see which ones your pup can digest most effectively:

• Eggs – The highest bioavailability, with a 100% absorption rate. Cooked eggs (boiled or scrambled without added oils or spices) are a safer and more nutritious option for dogs
• Chicken – Around 79% bioavailability, making it an excellent choice for dogs. A great lean source of protein and is often used in dog food because it’s easy on sensitive stomachs. Plus, it helps maintain strong muscles and a shiny coat!
• Fish – Up to 94% for options like raw salmon, providing both protein and omega-3s. However, keep in mind that raw fish can pose a risk of parasites, so it’s generally safer to feed cooked salmon, though cooking slightly reduces its bioavailability.
• Beef – At 75%, beef is highly digestible and dogs love the taste of it. Although, it has lower protein bioavailability than fish or chicken, It’s packed with iron, which is essential for healthy red blood cells and energy levels.

Understanding protein bioavailability for dogs helps pet owners choose foods that optimize nutrient absorption and reduce waste, supporting long-term health.

While many meats are excellent protein sources for dogs, some should be avoided due to lower bioavailability or potential health risks. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Pork Products : While some forms are safe, raw or undercooked pork can contain parasites, which can harm your dog’s health.
• Processed Meats : Foods like ham, sausage, and bacon are high in salt and fat, which can be tough on a dog’s digestive system.
• Lamb and Mutton : Some dogs may have trouble digesting these meats, and they may trigger food sensitivities in certain breeds.

Many pet owners are interested in meat-alternative proteins, whether for dietary sensitivities or environmental considerations. However, these sources tend to have lower protein bioavailability compared to animal proteins. Here’s how popular meat alternatives fare:

• Rice – Around 59% bioavailability, offering carbohydrates but lower protein quality.
• Oatmeal – About 55%, providing fiber and some protein but not ideal as a primary protein source.
• Lentils – With about 50% bioavailability, lentils add fiber but are less digestible for dogs.

These foods are often used in combination with higher bioavailability proteins to create balanced dog foods.

Proteins are made up of smaller building blocks called amino acids . These amino acids perform crucial functions in your dog's body, supporting muscle growth, immune function, and overall health. When a dog eats a protein-rich meal, their digestive system breaks down the protein into individual amino acids, which are then absorbed and used by the body.

Dogs require 10 essential amino acids that must come from their diet, as their bodies cannot produce these on their own. The amount of these essential amino acids that dogs absorb depends largely on the source's protein bioavailability.

For example:

• High protein bioavailability foods like eggs and fish deliver nearly all the essential amino acids in each meal, maximizing absorption and health benefits.
• Lower protein bioavailability sources, such as grains and legumes, provide fewer usable amino acids, meaning dogs absorb less from these sources.

In general, a diet that emphasizes high protein bioavailability can deliver nearly 90% of the essential amino acids dogs need per meal, whereas lower-bioavailability sources may only provide around 50-60%. By choosing protein sources wisely, pet owners can help their dogs meet their amino acid requirements and thrive with better energy, growth, and overall well-being.

When it comes to supporting bioavailability, THRIVE Daily stands out as a supplement that enhances your dog’s diet with 100% bioavailable amino acids. Designed to work alongside your dog’s regular food, THRIVE Daily ensures they’re getting essential amino acids, supporting everything from joint health to coat quality. THRIVE Daily’s formula focuses on high-quality ingredients with excellent bioavailability, making it an ideal choice for owners looking to maximize their pet’s nutrition.

To wrap up, here are a few tips for selecting proteins with high bioavailability:

• Look for high-quality meats like chicken and fish, which rank highly in bioavailability.
• Supplement with products like THRIVE Daily to boost nutrient absorption.
• Avoid low-bioavailability fillers, such as wheat gluten, when possible.

Protein bioavailability for dogs should be a top consideration when planning their diet, ensuring they get the best possible nutrition with each meal. Choosing foods and supplements with high bioavailability is key to giving your dog a healthy, well-rounded diet that supports their best life. You can add THRIVE Daily 100% bioavailable free from amino acid supplements to boost your pup's nutrition.