Can Dogs Drink Protein Shakes? All You Need to Know!

The health of a dog is determined by the efficiency their owner have in giving them balanced diets in their meals. Dogs, like humans, need different types of foods in specific quantities to serve their bodies’ needs. Sometimes, you need more than just whole foods for your dog, and you may find yourself thinking of other food supplements, such as protein shakes and powders.

Yes, dogs can drink protein shakes. Protein supplements for dogs can be useful for gaining muscle, building their bones, and creating hormones. However, before providing protein shakes for dogs, you must ask your veterinarian for approval.

It is important to equip yourself with the relevant knowledge before introducing your dog to supplementary feeding to know the pros and cons. To ensure you make no mistakes and hurt your dog, here is all you need to know about supplementary protein shakes and powders.

Can Dogs Have Vanilla Premium Protein Shakes?

No, dogs cannot have vanilla premium protein shakes since they are not designed for dogs. This is because humans and dogs have different bodies with different needs. Food specific to humans has ingredients that may be harmful to dogs.

Can dogs have vanilla protein powder? No, you should not give it to your dog since vanilla premium protein shakes and powders contain artificial flavors and unsafe additives for dogs. These ingredients will result in gastrointestinal issues for your dog.

Other human protein shakes and powders may contain excess iron for your dog, which could cause internal organ damage. For example, excess vitamin D will result in kidney damage, and 5HTP, a chemical found in human food, can cause blindness and seizures.

How to Safely Give Protein Supplements to Your Dog

Your dogs could be suffering from malnutrition, and giving them protein supplements could be the only solution to help them gain weight. In this scenario, you must buy protein supplements specifically created for dogs.

You must also ensure you give the right dosage to the dog. Excessive intake of protein shakes can cause harm to your dog. To help your dog, getting them protein shakes that are easily absorbable into their bodies is best. You want to get a protein powder that does not strain your dog’s digestive system.

It would be best to remember that protein shakes and protein powders for dogs’ muscle gain cannot be taken as the only main meals. They can only be used as supplements, so you must give your dog the usual meals to help keep them healthy and get other nutrients to achieve a balanced diet.

Protein Powder for Senior Dogs

Senior dogs often have health problems, so it is essential to ensure you help your dog get all the nutrients they need. As dogs age, their bones also weaken; protein supplements help them stay strong and maintain leaner muscles.

The best protein powder for senior dogs is one that is plant-based. Older dogs can experience difficulty in digestion, so it is best to avoid milk-based protein powders, as they take longer to digest and could cause discomfort to your senior dog.

A great example of a supplementary plant-based protein is hemp. Hemp seeds are very nutritious for a dog and low in fat, which is best for digestion. Other protein powders include peas and soybeans.

Xylitol Side Effects on Dogs

Is there xylitol in Premier Protein Shakes? This is a common question from dog owners who will give their dogs premier protein shakes. The truth is, yes, xylitol is one of the ingredients in protein shakes designed for humans.

The chemical is very harmful to dogs, even in the smallest amounts. Its effects can start to be seen after eight hours. It can lead to the death of your dogs and other effects, such as

Low sugar levels in the blood
Liver failure
Serious seizures and tremors

Protein Powders for Dogs

There are many varieties of protein powders for dogs. They differ with the age, size, and weight of your dog. Before buying a protein powder, remember to consult with your vet to get the best recommendations that suit your dog’s needs.

Here are some examples of protein powders for dogs:

1. Animal-Based Protein Powder

These are powders that are made purely from plants. These are the best protein powders, especially for seniors and puppies, to ensure easy digestion.

2. Casein Protein Powder

This is a powder derived from cow’s milk. It consists of the cheese curd produced during the process of making cheese.

It is digested very slowly in a dog’s system and is thus not advisable for dogs with gastrointestinal problems.

3. Whey Protein

It is also a powder derived from cow milk during the chees making process. Whey protein constitutes the liquid substance after the milk coagulates from a solid to a liquid state. It is then dried to form the whey protein powder.

Below are some of the benefits of whey protein for dogs:

1. Contains Beneficial Probiotics

Whey contains microbes that lead to the secretion of important enzymes that improve digestion. As a result, it helps the dog’s system digest food.

2. Contains Important Nutrients Such as Calcium and Phosphorus

Whey proteins have calcium and phosphorus minerals vital to dogs’ healthy teeth and bones. Lack of these nutrients can lead to your dog suffering from hip dysplasia and OCD.

3. Can Be Used to Treat Dog Infections

Whey contains antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can, therefore, be used on a dog’s skin to treat skin problems such as mange.

It helps soothe the dog’s itching due to its coolness and smooth nature. It is also safe when the dog licks it from its skin.

Homemade Protein Shakes for Dogs

How do you make protein shakes for dogs? This is a common question for dog owners who want to avoid buying protein shakes that could harm their dogs. Ensure it is plant-based to avoid stomach upsets, and blend all the items together.

One of the best protein home recipes for dogs contains: