Protein

 – your pup's not-so-secret superpower!

Every dog parent wants the best for their fur baby — and it turns out, the secret to a happy, healthy, tail-wagging life might just come down to one thing: protein.

 

Sound familiar? That's because us humans are just as obsessed with it! Whether we're chasing energy, staying fuller for longer, or recovering after a big workout, protein is the buzz word of the decade. And guess what — our dogs feel exactly the same way.

So, what actually is protein?

Proteins are large, complex molecules — the literal building blocks of life. Think of them as the engine inside every cell, doing the heavy lifting needed to keep bodies (furry or otherwise!) strong, functioning and thriving. At a molecular level, proteins are long chains of amino acids, and without enough of them, bodies simply can't repair or maintain themselves properly. That goes for you and your dog!

Why does your dog need it?

Protein is the foundation of a healthy diet for dogs. It's an essential building block for muscles, cartilage and skin — and it's critical for growth, repair and recovery. A protein-rich diet supports your dog's immune system, keeps their muscles strong and helps them maintain that gorgeous, glossy coat you love so much.

 

Protein should make up at least 18% of your dog's daily food intake, with optimal levels being closer to 15-30%, which is why it's so important to choose treats that are packed with the good stuff — not just fillers.

(Spoiler: we've got you covered on that one.)

Where does the best protein come from?

Here's a fun fact — pork is actually one of the highest-protein red meats around (sitting right up there with game and beef). Pork tenderloin averages a whopping 28.5g of protein per 100g, which for us humans equates to 57% of the average recommended daily intake.

But for your dog? It's an incredibly lean, highly digestible protein source that delivers real nutritional value — without the unnecessary extras.

What to look for in your dog's treats

Here's a fun fact — pork is actually one of the highest-protein red meats around (sitting right up there with game and beef). Pork tenderloin averages a whopping 28.5g of protein per 100g, which for us humans equates to 57% of the average recommended daily intake.

But for your dog? It's an incredibly lean, highly digestible protein source that delivers real nutritional value — without the unnecessary extras.

Sources

Pet Food Industry Association Australia (2020). How much protein does my pet need? https://pfiaa.com.au/how-much-protein-does-my-pet-need

NUTTAB (2010) Nutritional Data for Uncooked Pork, Snapper, Chicken and Beef Fillets.

University of Queensland Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences (2024), Analysis of Pawk Pet Co. Dehydrated Pork Products.