Also called · Taurine
What it is
Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid involved in bile acid conjugation, retinal function and heart muscle function.
Dogs can synthesise taurine from cysteine. It is therefore not classed as an essential amino acid for them, and there is little reason to supplement it if your dog is eating a complete and balanced diet.
What it does
Deficiency is still reported
Taurine-deficient cardiomyopathy has been reported in certain breeds and on certain diets. But taurine is not classed as essential for dogs, and it is not a nutrient that runs short under ordinary feeding.
When to pay attention
Worth checking if you have been home-cooking long term or using a diet that excludes particular ingredients. Not relevant if you are feeding a complete and balanced food.
How to feed it
Dogs synthesise it internally, so separate supplementation is not usually required.
The point is preventing deficiency, so meeting the requirement through the daily main diet is the principle.
Common questions
No. Overfeeding fish creates other problems — thiaminase destroying vitamin B1, and vitamin K deficiency.
Concerns this ingredient relates to
General nutrition information. It does not replace a diagnosis or a prescription. If your animal has a medical condition or is on medication, talk to your veterinarian first.