Protein Level in Dog Food for Old Dogs

by Gretchen

Hi, Your site is marvelous. I work with animal rescue and keep the older, unadoptable, small dogs, ie. Chihuahuas, IGs, etc. I currently feed Acana and some canned Natures Variety as well as Honest Kitchen.
How high a protein would you consider to be the highest I should go with these Senior dogs. Would Origen be OK. I do rotation among the grain free.

Thanks. I hope to visit Sweden some day as my grandfather came from Stockholm. Thanks again for the protein question as I believe in the no grain but get confused on how high to go with the senior dogs and also how his with the phosporous?
Gretchen

My Comment:

Hi Gretchen

No I don't see protein as a problem in a healthy old dog.

Orijen for the elderly dog would therefore be fine.

If - on the other hand - some liver or kidney problems is suspected I don't think it it wise to give too much protein. In this case a diet for the condition should be selected. Which one differs from patient to patient.

The same is true for phosphorus. But in the majority of the cases where the phosphorus is too high there is some kidney problems as well. Then you should choose a kidney diet and a supplement to lowered the phosphorus levels. You need a blood sample to really see how it is.

I cant tell you the max level of protein in a healthy old, dog but the levels in grain free commercial dogs food should be fine and not be a problem.

I am glad you like my site!

All the best

Per Schonbeck