A vast selection of commercial dog foods are available, including ones with different meats and meat-based ingredients. Dogs are facultative carnivores, which means they need proteins from meat but can also eat some plants. Like all animals, they do best on a diet that is right for their species.
In the wild, dogs would eat small animals, but only the biggest ones would probably eat deer. However, this novel protein can be found in an increasing number of commercial dog food recipes. What are the pros and cons of venison for dogs? Is it a scam that you should avoid giving your dog? Are there better options, or is it a good source of protein for dogs? Let’s find out!
Kidney disease is unfortunately a common health issue for dogs, especially as they age. If your furry friend has kidney disease, you may be wondering what diet is best to support their health. While vets often recommend reduced protein diets, recent research shows high-quality protein is important for dogs with kidney issues.
This raises the question – is venison a good option for dogs with kidney disease?
Venison is a lean, nutrient-rich meat. But with kidney disease, there are important factors to consider before feeding it to your dog. In this article, I’ll overview the benefits of venison, what to know about kidney disease, the role of protein, and tips for safely feeding venison to dogs with kidney issues.
An Overview of Venison for Dogs
Venison comes from deer and is a very lean and protein-packed meat In fact, it’s nearly twice as lean as beef or chicken, with less fat and cholesterol. Venison is also rich in iron, zinc, B vitamins and omega-3s.
As a novel protein source, venison is less likely to trigger food allergies in dogs. The hypoallergenic nature makes it a good choice for pups with sensitivities.
Venison’s leanness also makes it easy to digest and ideal for dogs with pancreatitis, IBD, or obesity. Overall, it provides dogs with highly bioavailable nutrition to support health.
Understanding Kidney Disease in Dogs
Kidney disease is common in older dogs. Kidneys filter waste from blood, so when they decline, toxins build up. This causes symptoms like increased thirst/urination, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss and more.
Kidney disease progresses through 4 stages. In early stages, there may be no symptoms. That’s why regular vet checkups to monitor kidney health are important, especially for senior dogs.
Treatment focuses on managing clinical signs and slowing disease progression. Dietary changes are key, but the role of protein for dogs with kidney disease is debated.
The Importance of Quality Protein
Contrary to past advice, newer research indicates dogs with kidney disease need protein. Protein provides essential amino acids to maintain muscle mass and support immune function.
However, the type and amount of protein matters. Although excessive protein was thought to worsen kidney disease, studies show moderate high-quality protein is beneficial.
Higher bioavailability protein, like venison, eggs, dairy and lean meats, produces fewer waste byproducts. These are better choices for dogs with kidney issues versus lower quality proteins.
Commercial kidney diets reduce protein, but still contain enough high-quality protein to meet a dog’s needs. Homemade diets may require supplementation to provide complete nutrition.
Is Venison a Good Option?
So, is venison a smart choice? As a lean, digestible protein source loaded with nutrients, venison can be a great option for dogs with kidney disease.
Venison provides iron for anemia prevention, zinc for immune health, and B vitamins for energy. As a hypoallergenic novel protein, it’s less likely to irritate sensitive stomachs.
Research supports moderate high-quality protein for dogs with kidney disease. Venison’s high bioavailability means less metabolic waste, making it gentler on the kidneys.
While venison can be fed to dogs with kidney disease, it shouldn’t be the sole protein source. Variety and balance are still important in homemade kidney diets. Consulting your vet is key.
Tips for Feeding Venison Safely
If you want to feed venison to your dog with kidney issues, here are some tips:
- Consult your vet on amounts and diet needs first
- Select high-quality lean venison cuts
- Cook thoroughly to avoid bacteria
- Introduce slowly mixed into meals
- Monitor for signs of digestive upset
- Avoid excessive phosphorus found in bones/organ meats
- Offer venison as part of a balanced diet
With a vet’s guidance, venison can be a healthy part of a kidney diet. Its digestibility and nutrition can support dogs with kidney disease. Always monitor your dog closely and adjust their diet as needed.
It’s a Good Source of Energy
Venison contains an ideal mixture of proteins, vitamins, and minerals that provide the energy that your dog requires. This is due to the lower levels of fat in this leaner meat. You can give your dog more of it because it lowers their risk of getting fat and sick, and it gives them the energy and building blocks they need.
Dogs Enjoy the Flavor
Even if an ingredient is good for your dog’s health, it won’t matter if they don’t like the taste. They won’t eat it.
Every dog is different, but most of them love the taste of venison and will happily eat a bowl full of high-quality dog food made with venison.
Diets For Pets With Kidney Disease
FAQ
What is the best meat for dogs with kidney disease?
Is venison kidney friendly?
Why can’t dogs eat venison?
How do you prevent kidney disease in dogs?
Look for dog foods that are specifically formulated to have lower phosphorus content. This can help slow the progression of kidney disease. While protein is essential to a dog’s diet, too much can be hard on already weakened kidneys. Opt for diets with moderate levels of high-quality protein.
What can a dog eat if he has kidney disease?
Raw garlic, mushrooms and dandelion greens are good sources of prebiotics. Here are a few more things to keep in mind if your dog has kidney disease. Again, avoid kibble and other commercial diets, including prescription kidney diets. Instead, feed your dog a fresh, whole food diet with easily digestible protein.
Can dogs with kidney disease eat a protein rich diet?
Dogs with early stage kidney disease might do well with a protein rich diet compared to older dogs that will have difficulty processing the protein. Whether you choose to make homemade meals or buy prescription food for your dog, getting the nutrients right is what truly matters.
Can a dog have kidney disease?
Therapeutic kidney diets are often supplemented with extra potassium. Your vet may also recommend a separate potassium supplement to be taken orally. Dogs with chronic kidney disease often develop hypertension (high blood pressure) as a complication. Elevated blood pressure can make kidney disease worse and it may even lead to a stroke.