Protease

Understanding the Enzyme Protease for Dogs

Protease is an enzyme that breaks down proteins, essential macronutrients for dogs. The name “protease” combines “protein” with the suffix “-ase,” indicating its role as an enzyme.

Dogs naturally produce protease in their pancreas and stomach, equipping them to digest proteins in a typical canine diet. However, modern diets containing processed proteins, plant-based ingredients, or low-quality meats can strain a dog’s digestive system. Protease supplements can help dogs digest proteins more effectively, enhance nutrient absorption, and ease digestive burden.

How Protease Helps Dog Digestion

• Breaking Down Proteins: Protease converts proteins into smaller units called peptides and amino acids, which support muscle maintenance, immune function, and overall health.
• Improving Nutrient Utilization: Through complete protein breakdown, protease helps dogs absorb maximum nutrients from their food.
• Easing Digestive Stress: Protease supplements reduce the burden on a dog’s digestive system, especially with diets high in processed or plant-based proteins.
• Supporting Gut Health: Efficient protein digestion prevents undigested proteins from fermenting in the gut, lowering the risk of bloating, gas, or diarrhea.

How Protease Acts on Proteins

Protease breaks down proteins through these steps:

1. Hydrolysis of Peptide Bonds: Protease splits the peptide bonds in proteins, creating shorter chains called peptides.
2. Further Breakdown to Amino Acids: Continued protease activity converts peptides into individual amino acids that the intestines can absorb.
3. Absorption and Utilization: The bloodstream carries these amino acids throughout the body to support tissue repair and energy production.

Why Protease Supplementation Helps Dogs

Though dogs naturally digest proteins, today’s diets often contain low-quality or processed protein sources that are harder to break down. Some dogs—particularly seniors or those with sensitive stomachs—may not produce enough protease, leading to poor digestion and symptoms like gas, bloating, or loose stools.

Protease supplements enhance protein digestion in commercial dog foods, improving nutrient absorption and reducing digestive stress. This support especially benefits dogs on high-protein diets, those with protein sensitivities, or pets recovering from illness or injury, when protein digestion becomes crucial for health.