Is Your Dog Getting Enough Taurine In Their Diet?
October 27, 2019
There is some concern about the manufacturing process of dry dog food, as it is known to extract certain micronutrients from the end product. One of these vital nutrients is an amino acid protein compound called taurine. While it is mandatory that cat food contains a certain amount of taurine, the same is not true for dry dog food.
Why do dogs need taurine?
Taurine is essential for the healthy functioning of the heart muscle. It plays many roles in the body, including the digestion of fats, regulation of the immune system, healthy vision and central nervous system.
When a dog’s diet is deficient in taurine, it can cause heart disease known as dilated cardiomyopathy.
While cats need supplemental taurine in order to survive, dogs can produce this non-essential amino acid on their own from a meat-based diet. Chicken is the best source.
In order to make taurine, the essential amino acid methionine, as well as Vitamin B6, must be present. During digestion, the body metabolizes methionine, changing it into the amino acid cysteine, from which taurine is produced. Naturally, a dry dog food that is going to provide taurine must contain the ingredients methionine or cysteine. So watch out for these amino acids when you’re checking the ingredient label on your next dog food purchase.
How much taurine does a dog need?
Large breed dogs have a harder time producing enough taurine, so they may be at a higher risk of taurine deficiency. Also, some breeds are more susceptible to heart disease, like some spaniels, retrievers and Newfoundlands. So your vet might recommend a taurine supplement added to your dog’s diet.
On average, a dog requires up to 1000 mg of taurine a day for every 40 pounds of body weight.
Your dog food kibble might be lacking in nutrients
The problem with the manufacturing of dry dog food is a machine called an extruder, which requires a doughy consistency in order to pump out perfectly shaped kibble. To get the right formula, manufacturers use starchy ingredients like corn, potatoes, and beans, which lowers the nutrient value of the dog food. Taurine is only found in animal sources.
Stick to chicken or turkey sources for your dog food and make sure the top three ingredients are meat-based. If you want to be doubly sure your dog’s food is the right choice, try contacting the manufacturer for a breakdown of the amino acid profile in their products.
References:
1. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl). 2003 Aug;87(7-8):251-62. PMID: 12864905
2. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl). 2003 Oct;87(9-10):359-72. PMID: 14507418