Unlocking Canine Nutrition: The Science Behind Hydrolyzed Dog Food

Hydrolyzed diets can be thought of as "pressure washed" protein diets that are broken down for easier digestion

It’s never fun when you have a sick dog on your hands - and often a veterinary visit will include a conversation about nutrition. Could your dog’s food be contributing to an upset stomach or itchy paws? Many dog owners are surprised to learn that most food allergies in dogs are to animal proteins, specifically chicken, beef, eggs, and dairy. Depending on your dog’s condition, a vet may prescribe something called a ‘hydrolyzed diet’ (also shortened to ‘HA’ diet) to understand if there is a food sensitivity contributing negatively to your dog’s health. 

This specialized form of nutrition has been designed to address specific diet-based concerns, but what exactly is it, and is it suitable for long-term use?

The Science of Hydrolyzed Proteins

At the heart of hydrolyzed dog food lies a complex scientific process involving proteins. Proteins are essential for dogs' overall health, contributing to the growth and repair of tissues, the functioning of enzymes and hormones, and the development of a robust immune system. Hydrolyzed proteins undergo a process called hydrolysis, which breaks down these complex protein structures into smaller, easily digestible fragments.

The hydrolysis process involves using enzymes or heat to cleave the bonds between amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. This results in protein fragments known as peptides. These peptides are significantly smaller than whole proteins, making them less likely to trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities in dogs. In short, the process of hydrolysis ‘pressure washes’ a common protein like chicken to such a degree that the tiny pieces don’t trigger a reaction. 

Common Reasons for Prescription

Hydrolyzed dog food is often prescribed for dogs with various dietary sensitivities, allergies, or gastrointestinal issues. Here are some common scenarios where hydrolyzed diets might be recommended:

• Food Allergies: Dogs can develop allergies to certain proteins found in traditional dog foods. Hydrolyzed diets can help by presenting these proteins in a pre-digested form that's less likely to trigger an immune response.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Dogs with gastrointestinal disorders might struggle to digest complex proteins. Hydrolyzed diets provide easily absorbable peptides, reducing the strain on the digestive system.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): IBD can cause digestive discomfort and inflammation. Hydrolyzed diets can offer relief by providing a hypoallergenic and easily digestible protein source.
• Skin Conditions: Some skin conditions in dogs are linked to dietary allergies. Hydrolyzed diets can alleviate these conditions by removing the potential allergens from the diet.
• Chronic Diarrhea: Dogs suffering from chronic diarrhea can benefit from hydrolyzed diets, as the pre-digested proteins are gentler on the digestive tract.

Suitability for Long-Term Use

The question of whether hydrolyzed dog food is suitable for long-term use is a matter of both health and balance. Hydrolyzed diets can certainly offer a solution for managing specific health issues, and in many cases, they are prescribed as part of a short-term treatment plan. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind regarding their long-term use.

• Nutritional Balance: Hydrolyzed diets, while effective in addressing sensitivities, might lack certain nutrients in their pre-digested form. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that all nutritional needs are met if a hydrolyzed diet is used for an extended period.
• Palatability: Some dogs may not find hydrolyzed diets as palatable as regular dog food due to their altered taste and texture. This could pose challenges in maintaining a balanced diet over time.
• Monitoring: Regular veterinary check-ups are essential when using any specialized diet long-term. Monitoring your dog's overall health and ensuring that the dietary plan remains appropriate is crucial.

Could plant-based diets be a healthier swap for hydrolyzed?

While hydrolyzed protein diets have proven beneficial for many dogs with food allergies, it is worth considering meat-free dog food as a healthy alternative. Many of these prescription diets are intended to be short-term as part of an elimination diet. High-quality meat-free diets are formulated for long-term use and source nutrient-dense plant proteins (free from common allergens) and provide a balanced and nutritionally complete diet. Let's explore the advantages of meat-free dog food:

• Novel Protein Sources: Meat-free dog food often utilizes novel protein sources such as peas, lentils, or peanut butter. These alternative protein sources are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in dogs with common protein allergies, making them suitable for hypoallergenic diets.
• Reduced Risk of Allergens: By eliminating common allergenic ingredients like beef, chicken, and dairy, meat-free diets can help manage food allergies and minimize the risk of introducing new allergens to a dog's diet. The simplified ingredient list in meat-free dog food reduces the potential for allergic reactions.
• Nutritional Balance: Meat-free dog food is formulated to meet a dog's nutritional requirements, providing the necessary proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and essential nutrients. Carefully crafted formulations ensure that dogs thrive on a meat-free diet while avoiding potential allergens.

Learn more about Petaluma's meat-free formulas by visiting our Nutrition page or order a sample of our baked Roasted Peanut Butter and Sweet Potato formula to try it out with your pup.