Lung
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Lung Lung tissue from mammals. Lower protein density than muscle meat but still nutritious organ meat.
What It Is
Lung tissue from mammals. Lower protein density than muscle meat but still nutritious organ meat.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. beef heart: Both are organ meats. Lung is spongy, low-fat protein, while heart is denser muscle with more CoQ10, taurine, and B vitamins.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Manufacturers include lung in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:
- Organ meat variety
- Cost-effective protein
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
Quality Considerations
When evaluating lung in dog products, it's important to understand protein density, amino acid profile, digestibility, and sourcing quality. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Acceptable organ meat though less nutrient-dense than liver or heart.
Potential Concerns
While lung can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of allergies, protein digestibility, and quality variations between named and generic sources. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.
Decent organ meat for variety, though not as nutrient-dense as liver or heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lung safe for dogs?
Yes, lung is safe for dogs when used appropriately in properly formulated dog food. As with any ingredient, individual dogs may have sensitivities, so monitor for any adverse reactions when first introducing products containing this ingredient.
What does lung do in dog food?
Lung tissue from mammals. Lower protein density than muscle meat but still nutritious organ meat. Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide organ meat variety and provide cost-effective protein.
Can lung cause allergies in dogs?
Any protein source can potentially trigger allergies in sensitive dogs. Signs of food allergies include itchy skin, ear infections, digestive issues, and excessive paw licking. If your dog shows these symptoms, consult your veterinarian about an elimination diet to identify the trigger ingredient.
How much lung should be in dog food?
Quality dog foods typically list primary protein sources like lung within the first 3-5 ingredients. The exact percentage varies by formula, but protein-focused foods generally contain 25-35% total protein for adults, and 28-40% for puppies or performance dogs. Check the guaranteed analysis rather than relying solely on ingredient order.
Related Ingredients
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