Canine Low Protein Diet...

Sometimes a Vet may recommend this type of diet for dogs with signs of liver problems & symptoms of liver failure either caused by autoimmune problems, cancer, trauma i.e. after being struck by a car, chronic infections, some medications and due to other metabolic diseases...


The diet may also be used by some owners as a prevention rather than cure for problems sometimes associated with a diet too high in protein (more on this later).

Liver disease is a very upsetting and debilitating condition for a dog and can of course be life threatening. Before we go into detail about the reasons why a vet may recommend a low protein diet we need to discuss exactly what the liver does and how it functions....

So lets get started...

The Liver

The Liver is found below the stomach and Pylorus and besides producing a substance called Bile which helps digestion it also helps regulate your dog's usage and storage of Carbohydrates.

The Liver also helps with the mobilization of body fat and helps your dog excrete (poop) toxic substances and the detoxification of any nasty substances. The Liver also aids the synthesis of proteins that are also found in your dog's body. Alongside all of the aforementioned duties this very special organ also helps to regulate your dog's body temperature - keeping it stable.


Ok a canine low protein diet is recommended if your dog's kidneys are not functioning properly so this may then cause a build up of Uremic Toxins in the Kidneys - this is because when the kidneys are functioning properly these toxins will be processed by the kidneys and then excreted in the urine. So if the kidneys are not functioning effectively they are not able to properly process and digest the protein in your dog's body - this will then cause a build up of more toxins hence the low protein diet.


Yes - you should never change your dog or puppy's diet without first consulting a Vet - there is a reason why most dog foods contain protein - because your dog needs it! Some dog food will only be available if you get a prescription from your Vet. It is possible to purchase dog food that is low in protein either dry or moist. See some of the dog food comparisons below.

What is the Best Dog Food for Low Protein Diet?

Dog Food Comparisons

Walthams Royal Canin - Although there have been some issue in the past due to product recalls they have started to rebuild their reputation in the last five years. This brand comes in moist, canned and as a dry dog food.

Eukanuba Veterinary Diet - This is specifically made to feed dogs with early signs of kidney problems and disease.

Purina Veterinary Diet - This is a prescription only dog food - however vets do like this brand.

Hills Prescription Diet - A canine low protein diet specifically for dos suffering with renal failure.

IVD Select Care - This is made specifically for dogs that are suffering from renal failure.

Flint River Ranch - This is one of the best and our top recommendation - no preservatives, fillers or colorings in this brand as its completely natural and low in protein - a top choice.

Unfortunately some brands that offer a canine low protein diet make very bland dog food that has little taste so we have provided some home made dog food recipes below.