A lot of people think that dogs only need protein in their diet, but they are also missing out on a number of other important nutrients. A prime example is taurine, which is the third most abundant amino acid in dogs’ bodies and one of the most important. Without it, your pup’s health can quickly become compromised by seizures, inflammation of his heart and other organs, an enlarged heart causing congestive heart failure and syncope (fainting), and cardiac arrhythmia.
What are the 7 natural sources of taurine for dogs?
1. Ruminant meat, especially raw goat and lamb meat.
As an animal protein, it contains a number of nutrients that humans need, but dogs can also benefit from these same nutrients. Grass-fed beef and lamb are optimal for dogs, as the fat content is much lower than that found in grain-fed animal sources. These animals are raised without antibiotics or hormones and their feed is mostly grasses and legumes.
2. Hair and skin of animals
These organ tissues are a good source of taurine, as well as other nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy. Hair and skin from grass-fed, free-range animals are healthier for your dog than that from commercial sources.
3. Aged cheese
Cheese has a high taurine content because it contains milk, which is also relatively high in amino acids; however, cheese can be problematic for dogs because it contains lactose. Dogs’ bodies cannot metabolize lactose, which means that it is converted to fat and stored in the body.
4. Fish
Fish are very good sources of amino acids because their muscle tissues contain a high concentration of taurine. Most fish that are safe for dogs to eat are high in nutrients. In general, fish is a good source of protein, which is important as it helps to build and repair muscle.
5. Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a good source of taurine for dogs because the milk is rich in taurine and other important nutrients. Cottage cheese can be a good choice for dogs who have an intolerance to milk, but chicken and turkey may also be beneficial for dogs.
6. Eggs
Eggs are a good source of taurine and your dog can benefit from their protein content. Veggies, fruit and grains are also good sources of taurine, but they usually do not contain the right balance of amino acids that your dog needs to stay healthy. But dogs are carnivores and should get the majority of their nutrients from animal sources.
7. Peanut Butter
Peanut Butter can be a source of taurine for dogs because of the protein, fat and protein content. It should be avoided by dogs with certain types of allergies or digestive disorders. Peanut butter is also high in sodium, which can cause health problems in some dogs.
