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Why is Science Diet low in meat? Is it a healthy dog food choice?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Female | spayed | 5 years and 4 months old | 17 lbs

Why does science diet not have a lot of meat in their foods? I really am having a hard time believing that this is one of the best foods on the market. Can someone explain this to me?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on November 3rd, 2017

Dogs have evolved to eat a very mixed diet similar to ourselves as they have become domesticated, indeed wolves and wild dogs do not eat an entirely meat diet either. Many dogs do very well on a diet with a mixture of meat, cereals and vegetables - the true value is in the correct balance of digestible nutrients - protein/carbs/fibre as well as vitamins, minerals and supplements and not in the actual source they came from as long as they are prepared correctly. Bear in mind however some dogs have particular sensitivities or dietary conditions which require specialist or prescription diets

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Dogs should have 18% of their diet made up of protein, although working dogs should have more, around 25%. This number is based on research done by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which overseas pet nutrition. Too much protein can adversely affect their health in that excess protein is stored as extra weight. This will lead a dog to be overweight, and thus affecting other parts of his body such as excess strain on the joints and heart problems. Senior dogs should have lower amounts of protein because they won't be as active, while puppies need higher amounts to meet their growth requirements. I hope this helps!

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