The Myth

• Contrary to the once widely held belief, high protein diets in dogs do not cause kidney damage. Doctors Foster and Smith hypothesize that this rumor started because dogs with kidney disease were commonly placed on low protein diets. ThePetCenter.com notes that early research on whether high protein diets caused kidney disease was never done on dogs. The research was done on rats that have difficulty excreting excess protein in their diets. Dogs do not have this problem. When dogs take in extra protein, some will be used as calories or converted to fat and the remaining will be excreted through the kidney.
  
  

Adequate Amounts of Protein

• Understanding your dog's breed, growth stage and physical needs will help you determine whether he is getting adequate amounts of protein or if a high protein diet is right for him. Puppies typically require a higher amount since their bodies are growing at a fast rate. Active or performance dogs may also require a higher amount of protein in their diet. In general, you can make sure your dog is receiving adequate amounts of protein by purchasing an upper to middle price range dog food or a quality brand of dog food that fits your dogs activity levels. In fact, Doctors Foster and Smith state that most pet food companies exceed the minimum protein requirements to ensure that dogs get adequate protein from their food.
  
  If you think you need to add more protein to your dog's diet or if you prepare homemade meals for your dog, use foods that have high quality protein. Eggs, fish meal, milk, beef and soy bean meal are highest on the list for quality protein.
  
  

Weight Loss

• There have been some studies showing that a high protein, low carbohydrate diet will promote weight loss. Most of these diets feature a protein-rich meat sorce as the main ingredient.
  
  

Summary

• According to ThePetCenter.com, dogs are able to tolerate protein levels higher than 30% on a dry-weight basis and that there is no general agreement among expert nutritionists what constitutes too much protein. If you think your dog needs a high protein diet or isn't receiving an adequate amount of protein, consult your veterinarian.