Novel Protein Dog Food: The What and the Why
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Time to read 4 min
Novel protein diets in dog food have raked hype in the past few years. It is nothing but feeding your dog a protein source they have not had or do not have regularly. Most commercial dog foods consist of chicken, mutton, and fish. Although generally, duck, rabbit or emu might be considered a novel protein, mutton also could be considered as one if your dog has never had it.
Peer-reviewed studies published in BMC Veterinary Research have shown that providing a variety of novel proteins for dogs is vital for maintaining a healthy diet. The study also indicates that dogs fed a diet with novel proteins and carbohydrates had improved nutrient absorption rates.
Table of Content
Importance of Cycling in Novel Protein Sources
Novel protein sources can offer many benefits for dogs, from health benefits to something as simple as breaking boredom.
Reduced Allergic Reactions:
As novel protein sources, a dog’s immune system would not have been exposed to it previously, drastically reducing the chances of an allergy reaction, thus making novel alternative protein sources a good choice for dogs with known food allergies or sensitivities. Duck is one such novel protein that is popular for hypoallergenic diets.
Variety in Diet
An introduction of variety in the diet helps reduce the likelihood of allergy or sensitivity development towards a specific protein. It also makes dogs interested in food and breaks the monotony of everyday life.
Improved Digestibility
Some novel proteins, such as rabbit and turkey, are highly digestible, which naturally means they are gentler on a dog’s stomach, thus reducing the risk of digestive issues.
Pros:
- Build Immunity: Exposure to different proteins helps build immunity against foreign ingredients in the body.
- Gut Health Enhancement: Easy to digest recipes help in boosting gut health.
Cons:
- Suitability: Might not be suitable to some dogs due to novelty.
- Affordability: Generally on the pricier side due to novel proteins being harder to source.
Explore Perfekt's Novel Protein Food - Prime Series
Popular Novel Protein Sources in India
Turkey: An Alternative Poultry
Turkey is rich in healthy fatty acids and B-complex vitamins, which support healthy skin, coat, and cognitive function. Its meat is also very lean, making it a suitable choice for those pet parents looking at options for weight control in their dog without the guilt of keeping their dog hungry. Moreover, it’s a smooth transition from the standard chicken-based diet to a novel protein diet. It’s worth checking out Perfekt’s Prime Turkey meal.
Duck: Rich Protein and Selenium Source
Duck is an up-and-coming novel protein source in India that offers a rich blend of essential nutrients. The high protein content and density of minerals such as selenium aid in solid muscle development and recovery, strengthen immunity and help control thyroid issues. It is also an incredibly flavorful alternative to chicken. Perfekt has a fresh duck option for your fur baby.
Rabbit: Natures Choice
Although the idea of rabbit as a source of meat is found unsettling for many, it is also a natural prey for dogs and wolves in the wild. It thus forms a base for the closest natural selection for a dog. It’s especially rich in omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B12, and a strong balance of calcium, phosphorous, and potassium. The low cholesterol content also makes it a suitable choice for dogs with heart health issues.
Pork: Popularly Available Yet Beneficial
Although pork meat is popular, it still needs to become a popular ingredient for dog food. Apart from being extremely palatable, it has a stronghold of zinc, selenium, and Vitamins B12 and B6, all supporting skin, coat, and mind wellness.
Fish: Richest Essential Fatty Acids Source
Extremely popular in human foods, fish is still gaining popularity among the dog community. Although novel protein it is not always accepted by dogs. The low-fat content in the meat, along with a rich source of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, makes fish an ideal novel protein choice for pet parents looking to better their dogs’ cardiovascular health and skin and coat nourishment.
Not only did hair fall and patches on the body reduced but the food bowls are squeaky clean.
Further Readings
→ Is Fresh Food Better for Dogs with Allergies?
→ Is Home Cooked Food Safe for My Dog?
How to Choose the Right Novel Protein for Your Dog
The selection of a suitable novel protein boils down to the specific needs of your dogs, current body condition score, health requirements, taste preferences, and equally important, one’s budget.
Introduce any new protein gradually and monitor closely for any allergic reactions. A consultation with your veterinarian could also help set up a meal plan that will align with your dog’s dietary requirements.
Conclusion
Introducing and consistently following novel protein diet plans for your dog can have significant health benefits. From helping with inner functions such as gut health reset to external benefits such as skin and coat development, novel proteins play a crucial role in shaping your dog’s health.
Consultation with a professional would help, but the introduction of novel proteins gradually is a must whilst keeping a close eye on any unwanted changes. Look at Perfekt’s Prime Series, which aims to bring fresh, novel protein sources at inexpensive rates to pet parents across India.
Novel protein sources are excellent for aid in skin and stomach sensitivities
Recommended to use products with trusted companies as the raw material is generally sensitive
Need not be on novel protein diet forever - one can simply switch to regular food post healing and then assess as required
If you want assistance in selecting the right novel protein fresh food for your dog then reach out to Perfekt on WhatsApp here.
Products Featured In This Blog
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the food stay fresh?
Food stays fresh for upto 1 year with the expiry being 2 years from date of packing.
Can I incorporate these into my dogs daily routine?
Absolutely! Prime Series is intended to be fed daily but you are more than welcome to feed it as a treat too.
I'm a vegetarian. Are there meat chunks? Is there smell?
Prime Duck has chunks but Prime Chicken and Prime Turkey don't. With regards to smell, it is not significant and does not stick in the room.
