Taurine

Question
Every where I look, I see the statement 'certain breeds of dogs need taurine added to their diet'  My question is Which Breeds?  Thank You.

Answer
Good afternoon, Mary-Beth.

Studies have indicated that larger breed dogs (one study was done on Newfoundlands) show more instances of  cardiomyopathy due to taurine deficiencies because the taurine biosynthesis rate is thought to be slower in larger breed dogs.

Because of this, I would advise a diet rich in taurine for any large breed dogs.

Dogs that have seizures as well as dogs predisposed to heart conditions can certainly benefit from additional taurine regardless of their size.  

If you are feeding a fresh diet rich in whole meats and organ meat, including heart, your dog will get sufficient amounts of taurine.  

Do let me know if I can be of any further help.

Gail E. Vigneault