Can dogs have Pea protein?

can dogs have pea proteinCaution

Overview

dog-food-safety-information

Pea protein is specifically formulated for human consumption as a rich source of amino acids and iron. Because of its high purine content, pea protein is not recommended for dogs with kidney problems. Pea protein may contain additives that can be harmful to dogs.

Benefits

health-benefits
  • Pea protein is a source of plant-based protein, which contains essential amino acids that play in important role in muscle repair and growth as well as immune system function.
  • Pea protein is also rich iron, which is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein that transports oxygen throughout the body. Pea protein provides a readily available source of iron that can help maintain healthy hemoglobin levels in dogs and prevent anemia.

Risks

health-risks
  • Pea protein powder contains purines, which produce uric acid. Dogs that have difficulty with purine metabolism can suffer from kidney or bladder stones. Pea protein is not suitable for dog breeds that produce elevated levels of uric acid in their urine such as Dalmatians, English Bulldogs, Black Russian Terriers, or those with kidney issues.
  • There is a possible link between certain ingredients in grain-free dog foods, including peas and other legumes, and an increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, a serious heart condition that can lead to heart failure. As such, pea protein is not recommended for dogs that are genetically predisposed to DCM.
  • Since pea protein powders are formulated for humans, they may contain ingredients or additives that may not be suitable for dogs, such as artificial sweeteners or flavorings.
health-risks-dog

Servings

serving-suggestions
  • While a small amount of pea protein is not likely to harm a dog, it's not a recommended protein source for canine health.

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