When we think about pork, delicious bacon, ribs and sausages come to mind. While in moderation, pork can be a healthy part of the human diet, what about dogs? When looking at dog food varieties, you don’t see pork as a primary protein source. Even grain-free dog food options tend to stick with beef, fish or bison. It is no wonder why people wonder, “Is pork dog food good for dogs?”
Is Pork Dog Food Healthy?
When choosing a dog food, you will want one that is full of protein, to help your pup build and maintain muscle mass. Pork is an excellent source of amino acids, perfect for dog nutrition. Pork dog food is also is rich in thiamine, an essential mineral used in cell-function.
The Importance of Thiamine
Thiamine, also known as Vitamin B1 is an essential vitamin for dogs. This means they cannot make it themselves, and it must be included in their diet for optimum health. Without thiamine, your dog could experience stomach upset, neurological issues and muscle weakness. Thiamine is also used to help convert food into energy, allowing your pup to remain strong and energetic. The Zignature® Pork Formula is a fantastic option for dog owners looking for a grain-free, high thiamine food option.
Pork Is Anti-Allergy Dog Food
Pork is recommended above other lean protein sources, like chicken. Chicken can be known to cause gut inflammation in many dogs. Vets often recommend pork as a healthy alternative, as it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction when compared to other protein sources. Pork is highly digestible, which is an excellent option if your pup experiences bloating, constipation or loose stools.
Why Isn’t Pork More Popular?
With all the nutritional benefits of pork, why isn’t it more widely used in dog food? Because humans enjoy eating pigs too much. So much of the pig is used in human consumption, that there isn’t enough leftover to be used in dog food. Many dog food manufacturers aren’t willing to spend the extra money to purchase high-quality pork options on the market. Also, pork from other countries can be contaminated, causing major health issues in your dog. That is why Zignature® sources all its pork from the U.S.
We hope this has answered the question, “Is pork dog food good for dogs?” Check out Zignature’s full menu of other proteins that can provide a Physiologically Tuned™ nutritionally correct diet for your dog.