Protein is something of a hot topic when it comes to feeding your dog.
It plays a vital role in everything from building strong muscles to supporting a healthy immune system. But with so much talk about high-protein diets, it can be tricky to know exactly how much your dog needs, whether a sprightly young pup or senior pooch.
And, of course, everything in between...
So, here we'll unpack why protein matters so much for your dog, where the best sources come from, and how to adjust your dog's intake depending on their age, breed and lifestyle.
Not to mention how much protein your dog really needs to live a happy, fulfilling, healthy life, because when it comes to nutrition for your dog, a one-size-fits-all approach just simply doesn't cut it.
Protein is much more than a building block for muscle - it's involved in just about every system function and part of your dog's body. From the inside out, protein helps maintain healthy tissue, fuels recovery, and generally keeps things running smoothly.
It supports:
Muscle development and repair
Important for active dogs, growing pups and senior pooches who are prone to muscle loss.
Immune system function
Many of the body's defences rely on proteins in order to identify and fight off threats.
Energy production
While fat is typically a dog's main energy source, protein steps in when extra fuel is needed.
A shiny coat and healthy skin
Poor coat quality can be a sign of a low-protein diet.
Without enough protein, dogs may become lethargic, lose muscle tone, struggle to maintain a healthy coat, or take longer to recover from illness or injury. It's undeniably a cornerstone of a well-rounded diet for your dog.
The Best Protein Sources for Dogs
When it comes to protein sources, not all of them are created equal.
Dogs need what's known as 'complete proteins' - those containing all the essential amino acids their bodies can't produce on their own. These are typically found in animal-based ingredients, although some plant sources can contribute too.
Animal-Based Proteins
These are generally considered the most beneficial for dogs due to their digestibility and complete amino acid profile. Think things like:
Organ meats like liver and heart can also be excellent sources, offering a boost of essential nutrients, but they must be used in moderation as they are extremely nutrient dense.
This is typically around 10 to 15% of your dog's total diet, with no one organ making up more than 10%.
Be especially cautious of how much liver you feed your dog as it is so rich in nutrients. Because of this, the experts say this organ meat should make up no more than 5% of your dog's total diet.
Plant-Based Proteins
Plant proteins - like those from lentils - are often used in dog foods, especially in grain-free or vegetarian recipes. They can help support overall protein content, but they're usually less digestible and may lack certain amino acids.
That's why they're best used alongside, rather than instead of, high-quality animal proteins - unless you're feeding a carefully managed vegetarian or allergy-friendly diet under professional guidance.
It's also worth noting that just because a food is high in protein doesn't mean it's automatically good for your dog. The quality and source of that protein are just as important as the quantity.
How Much Protein Does Your Dog Really Need?
This is where things get a little more personal - because the ideal amount of protein depends on your dog's age, breed, lifestyle and health status.
General Protein Guidelines for Dogs
According to UK pet nutrition standards (such as those laid out by FEDIAF), adult dogs need a minimum of around 18% protein on a dry matter basis, while puppies and breeding females require 22% or more to support growth and development.
Dogs with high activity levels may benefit from diets containing 28-30% protein or more.
It's important to remember that the percentages on pet food packaging can be misleading if you're comparing wet and dry foods.
Wet food contains much more moisture, so the protein percentage appears lower - but when you remove the water content, it may be just as high, or higher, than dry kibble.
That's where dry matter analysis comes in handy when comparing different foods. If you're not too sure where to find this information, you'll be happy to know here at All About Dog Food we list all these facts and figures clearly on each product page just beneath the nutritional analysis for the food.
Adjusting for Age and Activity Level
If you've spent any time on dog forums or social media, you are bound to have come across someone telling you "the best" amount of protein to feed your dog
However, when it comes to dogs, it's really not that simple, after all, every dog is different!
What's an ideal protein intake for one, may not be the ideal protein intake for another, for instance, a Border Collie who runs for miles every day will need a different protein intake than a sleepy older Labrador who's happy with a gentle stroll and a snooze.
That's why we encourage you to find out what works best for your pup on an individual basis.
But if you're not too sure how to figure that out, here are some tips to get you started.
Puppies
Growing puppies have high protein requirements to support the development of bones, muscles and organs.
A diet with around 22-25% protein (dry matter) is generally recommended.
It's also really important the protein comes from digestible, high-quality sources to give them the best start in life.
Adult dogs
Most healthy adult dogs thrive on diets with protein levels between 18-25%.
The exact amount will depend on how active your dog is and whether they're prone to weight gain or have specific dietary needs.
Moderately active or indoor dogs may do well on the lower end of that range, while more energetic breeds might need something higher.
Senior dogs
There's a common belief that older dogs should eat less protein to protect their kidneys, but recent research suggests the opposite - provided your dog doesn't have any kidney disease.
In fact, senior dogs often need slightly more protein to help maintain muscle mass and support ageing tissues. That said, the quality of the protein is essential
Active and Working Dogs
If your dog is highly active - whether they're working, competing or just naturally full of beans - they'll need more protein to support muscle repair and energy demands.
Diets formulated for active dogs often contain 28% or more protein and are designed to be easily absorbed.
Dogs with Health Conditions
Some health issues, like kidney or liver disease, may require specific dietary adjustments. In these cases, it's always best to work closely with your vet to ensure your dog's protein intake is appropriate and safe.
Is Your Dog Getting the Right Amount of Protein?
So, how do you know if you're getting it right? While the numbers and percentages can help, it's your dog's behaviour and condition that offer the clearest clues. Signs your dog may need more protein range from:
• Poor coat condition or excessive shedding
• Muscle loss or weakness
• Low energy or stamina
• Slower recovery after illness or injury
Too much protein, on the other hand, is rarely a problem for healthy dogs, as the body simply breaks down and excretes any excess. However, in less active dogs, high-protein diets could contribute to weight gain - especially if overall calories are too high.
It's Not Just About the Numbers
Arguably, protein quality matters more than quantity.
A food with 20% protein from named meat and fish sources is likely far better for your dog than a 30% protein food made up mostly of plant ingredients or vague 'meat derivatives'. That's why we'd advise you to feed your dog foods that are:
Choosing a brand that meets UK nutritional standards (such as FEDIAF-approved foods) is also a good way to ensure you're feeding a balanced, safe diet.
In Conclusion - Getting Protein Right for Your Dog
Feeding your dog the right amount of protein isn't just about numbers on a label - it's about understanding their individual needs and choosing high-quality ingredients that support their health and happiness.
So, whether you're feeding a young pup, a retired greyhound, or a ball-chasing spaniel who never seems to run out of steam, protein deserves a thoughtful place in their bowl. And if you're ever unsure, a chat with your vet or a qualified pet nutritionist can help guide the way.
About the author
Ashleigh Tosh - Content Writer at All About Dog Food
Ashleigh's a professional writer with over a decade’s experience, including several years focused on human nutrition as Lead Copywriter at MuscleFood. That extensive understanding of ingredients and health translated naturally into her passion for dog nutrition, sparked when her late Dogue De Bordeaux developed digestive issues. Now a Content Writer for All About Dog Food, she's delighted to help dog owners all over the UK make informed choices for their pups. She lives with Frank, her lively Rottweiler, and credits his energy and very shiny coat to a great diet, and plenty of play (he's a big fan of tug-o-war).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat too much protein?
For most healthy dogs, excess protein isn’t usually harmful. Their bodies will break down and excrete any protein they don’t need. However, dogs with certain medical conditions—like kidney disease—may require a diet with more carefully managed protein levels, so it’s important to seek veterinary advice if you’re unsure.
What is the best protein source for dogs?
Animal-based proteins like chicken, beef, fish and eggs are considered the most beneficial for dogs, as they contain all the essential amino acids and are highly digestible. Plant-based proteins can support the diet but are best used alongside quality meat or fish sources.
Does my senior dog need less protein than a younger dog?
Not necessarily. In fact, senior dogs often benefit from slightly higher levels of protein—provided it’s high quality and easily digestible. This helps maintain muscle mass and supports their ageing bodies, especially if they’re less active than they once were.
Ashleigh Tosh - Content Writer at All About Dog Food
