Just as we humans need essential amino acids, collagen, and key nutrients from protein, the same goes for our canine friends.
A lot of commercial dog foods simply don’t cut it nutritionally. Dogs that can use a dietary boost–like aging dogs, sporting dogs, working dogs, or recovering dogs–can all benefit from the help of dog protein powder.
The idea of protein powder for dogs may seem far-fetched, but some specially formulated dog protein supplements have science-backed merit. Here’s what to know about these products.
What to Look for in Protein Powder for Dogs
There are a few categories of dog protein powder worth knowing, especially if you’re looking to identify the optimal product for your dog’s needs.
- Dog weight gainers are popular types of protein powder designed to ramp up the caloric density of puppies and dogs that need a nutritional boost.
- Recovery and muscle support protein powders can be beneficial for dogs during periods of disuse, muscle atrophy, or aging-related muscle loss.
- Food sensitivity/allergy-friendly powders made from alternative, hypoallergenic protein sources like plant-based proteins (e.g. pea, hemp) for dogs with food sensitivities.
- General health and wellness powders provide a balance of amino-rich protein and other beneficial nutrients like omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and probiotics.
There’s also the protein source, like high-quality animal-based proteins like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, and plant-based proteins like legumes, hemp, and certain grains.
It’s important to know how supplementation fits in with your dog’s diet. If you’re like my mom, who makes her own dog food, your dogs are eating well and probably don’t need much extra protein.
But for the remaining majority of us who don’t have time for homemade dog food, the right protein powder can help check many boxes for your dog’s diet and health. Here are a few products I like.
What’s the Best Protein Powder for Dogs?
The ideal protein supplement for your dog will depend on its age, health, and nutritional needs. For instance, a growing puppy may need added calories and nutrients versus a senior dog needing muscle and joint support. Below are products that offer the best of both worlds.
MYOS Canine Muscle Formula
Developed by pet enthusiasts and recommended by vets, MYOS Canine Muscle Formula harnesses the power of a single, all-natural ingredient – Fortetropin – to help restore your dog’s natural vitality.
Derived from chicken egg yolks, Fortetropin is a natural myostatin-reducing agent. Myostatin is a protein that slows muscle growth, so inhibiting it stimulates muscle protein synthesis.
Double-blinded, placebo-controlled studies have examined the effects of Fortetropin on mobility in senior dogs. The results showed a statistically significant improvement in mobility scores for the Fortetropin treatment group at weeks 6 and 12 compared to baseline.
This simple and unique dog protein supplement from MYOS is formulated with no additives or artificial ingredients, clinically proven to accelerate muscle growth and improve mobility.
Step Above Proteins Collagen Protein for Dogs
Universally applicable to all types of dogs, this gelatin collagen protein powder for dogs provides a host of benefits, from muscle growth to reduced joint inflammation, and improved coat quality.
Abundant in amino acids, this is a solid protein supplement for both fast-growing puppies and senior dogs alike. It’s a single-ingredient product made purely from collagen gelatin protein, so it’s highly bioavailable and allergy-free.
Step Above Proteins is a brand that stands for being made in the USA. This top-tier dog protein powder is a testament to the company’s quality.
Fifth & Fido Muscle Builder
Made with hydroxymethylbutyrate (HMB), amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, Fifth & Fido’s Muscle Builder is scientifically proven to help support muscle growth and repair. The amino acids are fueled by pork liver and whey powder.
This powder supplement is ideal for older dogs or post-op dogs in recovery. HMB has been shown to stimulate muscle protein synthesis while reducing breakdown, leading to improved muscle growth and recovery. It has anti-inflammatory properties and effectively prevents muscle loss.
Suitable for all breeds, Fifth & Fido Muscle Builder also doubles as joint support and has shown promising outcomes for senior dogs.
Pet Care Sciences Dog Weight Gainer
Designed for demanding, growing dogs, this Dog Weight Gainer from Pet Care Sciences is high in protein and amino acids, helping to improve muscle mass and overall health in dogs. This product also supports joint health and can improve physical activity in older dogs.
It’s made from vegetable fat, whey protein concentrate, hydrolyzed collagen peptide (Type II), betaine HCI, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), beef broth protein, natural flavor, blueberry fruit powder, pumpkin seed extract (5:1), calcium concentrate.
Compared to the previous two powder supplements, this product from Pet Care Sciences is a proper nutritionally dense protein powder made for optimal dog health. It’s also a great value for how many servings you get.
Nature’s Diet Bone Broth Protein Powder for Pets
Designed more for recovery and vitality versus muscle mass, this bone broth protein powder for pets is highly anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating.
Made from USA-derived, human-grade ingredients (bone broth, pumpkin, fish oil, turmeric) it is available in five flavors and provides a ton of servings for entry-level price.
Not limited to dogs, this potent pet protein formula from Nature’s Diet is nutrient-dense and easy to prepare, making it a convenient meal topper. It supports skin, coat health, and joint health due to the inclusion of turmeric and fish oil.
Other Protein Supplements for Dogs
A few other protein supplements for dogs aren’t classified as powders but provide similar benefits. These are:
- Taily Liquid Collagen Protein Supplement for Dogs: Hydrolyzed collagen in liquid form, making it easy to administer or add to food. Suitable for both dogs and cats, this form of collagen protein enhances absorption and efficacy and supports weight gain, muscle strength, recovery, and mobility.
- Bully Max Muscle Gain Power Chews: A high-protein blend specifically made for muscle gain. Given in chew form with no fillers or additives, Bully Max supports muscle growth and vitality across all breeds. It is convenient to administer and has been effective in enhancing vitality and muscle gains in dogs.
- Zammex Pure Grass Fed Beef Bone Broth Protein Powder: Made for humans but suitable for dogs, this beef bone broth protein powder features hydrolyzed collagen. One serving provides 20g of protein, supporting muscle recovery and healthy skin, nails, hair, and joints. It’s versatile and can be great in soups, offering a substantial protein boost.
Each of these protein powders offers unique benefits tailored to different needs, such as joint support, muscle growth, or overall vitality, making them suitable for a variety of dietary requirements and preferences in dogs.
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About the Author
This article was written by Tyler Tafelsky, the lead editor here at VeganProteinPowder.reviews. Tyler is an experienced writer in the health and athletic space who has tried hundreds of different plant-based nutritional products and writes about his favorites here on this blog. Learn more about Tyler by viewing his full author bio or by following him on social platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram.