Quote:
Originally Posted by Maximo  Thank you for all of the info Melcakes.
In dog foods, what are the primary sources of phosphorus? Which ingredients should we avoid? |
If you want to feed less phosphorus (although they are essential minerals that healthy dogs need for health maintenance), but lets say for those dogs with kidney disease you want to reduce phosphorus then the foods highest in phosphorus include: bones, dairy products, fish (with bones), organ meats, and egg yolks. That does not mean not to feed these foods at all, as they are an important component of a healthy diet, but to feed in moderation. Feeding an excess of phosphates is also not healthy (e.g. all meat diet). Be wary of the amount of phosphorus in grains and vegetables. Grains like wheat, and vegetables like sweet potatoes and winter squashes are good choices. White rice is also lower in phosphorus than brown rice. Beef has less phosphorus than chicken. Lamb and Turkey are in between. Green Tripe is said to be a great food for dogs with kidney failure, as it is low in phosphorus and is highly palatable to dogs.
Optimum phosphorus ranges (According to Source: Small Animal Clinical Nutrition 4th edition ) % are measured on a Dry Matter Basis
Small/Medium Breed Puppies (0.6 - 1.3%)
Large Breed Puppies (0.6-1.1%)
Adult Dogs (0.4 - 0.9%)
Older Dogs >6 yrs (0.5-0.7%)
AAFCO Minimum Phosphorus/Protein/Fat Levels (%Dry Matter Basis)
Growth/Repro.
Minimum
Protein: 22%
Fat: 8%
Phosphorus 0.8%
Adult Maintenance
Minimum
Protein: 18%
Fat: 5%
Phosphorus: 0.5%
Max. Phospohrus (1.6% Dry Matter Basis)