A healthy diet is the sum of many small decisions. Even minimal adjustments can noticeably improve the well-being of your furry friend. In the following, we will therefore take a closer look at the amino acid methionine and tell you how important it is in your dog's diet.
From: Alena Thielert
Methionine is a sulphur-containing, essential amino acid that your dog cannot produce itself and must therefore ingest through food. It provides methyl groups, is converted to cysteine in the body (important for the formation of taurine, among other things) and supports the formation of the antioxidant glutathione. Methionine is therefore essential for skin, coat and muscles. In some dog food formulas, it is specifically supplemented to improve the amino acid balance and gently influence the urine pH value.
L-methionine is the biologically active form found in proteins. DL-methionine is a mixture of D- and L-forms, whereby only the L-form is used in the body. Both variants can be useful - the decisive factor is what you use methionine for and in what quality it is available.
A methionine deficiency rarely occurs with a balanced diet. Puppies in particular are more susceptible. The following symptoms may indicate an undersupply:
Our tip: Anyone who cooks for their four-legged friend should have their amino acid supply checked regularly.
methionine work on two levels: Firstly, as a protein building block that supports regeneration, skin and coat quality as well as the entire protein metabolism. Secondly, it can gently lower the urine pH - an effect that is particularly relevant for struvite stones, as these crystals prefer to form in an alkaline environment. As with any nutrient, the same applies here: More is not automatically better. An overdose can lead to undesirable side effects.
If your dog receives too much methionine, the following side effects may occur:
Also watch out for possible interactions with other uric acidifying substances or special diets. Particular caution is also required in the case of liver disease, as well as during pregnancy and with long-term administration. In these cases, it is advisable to seek veterinary advice.
Methionine is particularly helpful for dogs if the urine pH needs to be lowered slightly - for example in the case of struvite stones (magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals), recurring cystitis or as a supportive measure for urinary tract infections (does not replace therapy).
It also scores points in ration planning when the amino acid balance needs to be optimized - e.g. for home-cooked menus. The essential amino acid can also support protein metabolism in phases of higher stress, such as coat change, muscle building or recovery. The prerequisites are an appropriate dosage, progress checks and veterinary supervision in the event of pre-existing conditions.
Methionine is particularly helpful for dogs when the urine pH needs to be lowered slightly - for example in the case of struvite stones (magnesium ammonium phosphate crystals), recurring cystitis or as a supportive measure for urinary tract infections (does not replace therapy).
It also scores points in ration planning when the amino acid balance needs to be optimized - e.g. for home-cooked menus. The essential amino acid can also support protein metabolism in phases of higher stress, such as coat change, muscle building or recovery. The prerequisites are an appropriate dosage, progress checks and veterinary supervision in the case of pre-existing conditions.
If the daily requirement is covered by a balanced dog food, there is usually no need for an additional dose. However, if methionine is to be specifically supplemented, the amount depends on the dog's body weight and the aim of the intake (e.g. moderate pH management). Methionine for dogs is available as a powder, paste and tablets. However, the dosage should always be agreed with a vet.
Methionine is found in many animal and plant foods. In addition to meat, fish and eggs, legumes such as lentils, peas and chickpeas as well as cereals such as rice, oats, quinoa, buckwheat and millet are also suitable for dogs. Seeds and kernels are also valuable and should be finely ground for better digestibility and only used in small quantities.
Well-formulated dog food perfectly covers your dog's nutritional requirements - including essential amino acids such as methionine. When choosing a food, make sure it has a complete declaration, high-quality protein sources and a good balance of nutrients.
The vegan dog food from
Alena Thielert
