When it comes to your dog’s health, not all proteins are created equal. The fat content in your dog’s food can dramatically affect their energy, weight, and overall wellbeing. Understanding the difference between lean and fatty proteins helps you choose meals that truly suit your dog’s needs — especially in India’s warm climate and city lifestyle.
Lean vs Fatty Proteins: What’s the Difference?
Lean proteins like skinless chicken, turkey, white fish, eggs, or trimmed mutton are rich in amino acids but low in fat. They give your dog the protein needed for muscle maintenance without excess calories.
Fatty proteins, such as lamb, duck, pork, or marbled beef, are much higher in fat and calories. Fat provides energy and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins, but too much can lead to unwanted weight gain or digestive strain, especially in less active dogs.
How Fat Impacts Weight & Energy
Fat is over twice as calorie-dense as protein — 9 calories per gram compared to 4. That means small portions of fatty meats can quickly overshoot your dog’s daily calorie requirement.
In hot climates, dogs don’t burn extra calories to stay warm. Research shows that a moderately active dog’s maintenance energy requirement is about 95 kcal × (body weight in kg)^0.75, while sedentary dogs may need 20–25% less. So, those added fat calories are often stored, not used.
Choosing Smart in India’s Climate
For dogs in warm, urban settings with limited exercise, lean proteins are ideal. They’re easier to digest, provide steady energy, and help maintain a healthy weight. Pair them with fiber-rich vegetables like pumpkin, beans, or carrots for a complete, satisfying meal.
The Momo & Co Takeaway
Use lean proteins as the foundation of your dog’s diet, and adjust fat and portion sizes seasonally — lighter in summer, a bit richer in winter. Balanced doesn’t mean bland — it means smarter, fresher, and tailored to your dog’s lifestyle. 🐶💛
Because at Momo & Co, every bowl is designed for real dogs living real lives — happy, healthy, and thriving in India’s weather.