What is Collagen? The word “collagen” is derived from two Greek words; "kólla," which means "glue," and "gen", the suffix, meaning "producing." It thus follows that collagen functions as a glue holding the body together, forming a scaffold to provide structure and strength. It’s typically found in connective tissues throughout the body such as the skin, muscle, bones, tendons, blood vessels and even the digestive system.

Making up 30 % of the protein in a body, collagen is among the most abundant proteins. The collagen fibers comprise the amino acids glycine, proline, hydroxyproline and arginine. These are in turn, made up of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon and hydrogen.

What does Collagen do? 

There are various types of collagen found in a body. Five of them are the most common and make up the largest percentage of collagen in a body. 

Because it is present in the skin, muscle, bones, tendons, blood vessels and even the digestive system, collagen is known for transcendently advancing joint wellbeing, especially in dogs. 

It is found in cartilage and is also a structural component of the nose, ear, rib cage, bronchial tubes, rib cage, and more. It is additionally one of the major components of the skin and organs. 

It, therefore, goes without saying that maintaining solid collagen levels is very vital for a healthy life.

Is collagen Good for Dogs?

collagen in dogs is just as important as it is in humans. Unfortunately, the levels decline naturally as both dogs and humans age. This decline could potentially lead to a range of maladies as it is such a critical, expansive part of the body. 

In dogs, common signs of below normal collagen levels may include joint and muscle pain, hair loss, shedding, stomach problems, or a dry coat. An appropriate amount of collagen in their diet every day could help remedy these symptoms.

At the top of the list of dog diseases caused by collagen deficiency or decline are diarrhea, arthritis /stiffness and pain, dental conditions, ear infection, viral and bacterial infections, obesity and dry and itchy skin/skin infections. 

Because we know just how important collagen is for a dog's health and well-being, the Avantis range of pet foods are carefully formulated with exactly this in mind.

How does collagen Help Dogs?

1. Collagen Improves Mobility and Prevents Injuries

This is particularly important for adult and aging dogs. About 70-90% of the dogs' tendons, ligaments and muscles are made up of collagen. As the dog ages, their capacity to produce collagen reduces, causing instability in their joints, loosening of connective tissue and their bones becoming brittle. This causes dogs to start becoming prone to pain and injuries even more severe conditions like arthritis and hip dysplasia.

2. Collagen Improves Coat and Fur

The foremost broad layer of the skin of a dog's coat is called the dermis, and it fundamentally comprises approximately 70%  collagen out of the protein in it. 

Dermis helps support the upper layer of the skin to fight against infections and keep the skin's strength and elasticity.

collagen helps moisturize and maintain a soft and shiny coat, keeping dogs’ skin looking and feeling young and itch-free.

3. Collagen Improves Digestion

collagen's molecular structure comprises hydrophilic molecules, which are molecules that are attracted to water. Thus, collagen allows food to move through the gastrointestinal tract easily. A Dogs' digestive tract is more often than not prone to inflammation. Numerous cases of inflammation could lead to a “leaky gut” which occurs when toxins from the gastrointestinal tract leak into the bloodstream, leading to a toxic environment. 

collagen can help prevent this from happening as it is full of amino acids to maintain balance in their gut. It aids in digesting nutrients like proteins and in soothing and repairing tissues.

4. Collagen strengthens Bones, Nails and Teeth

Bones, nails and teeth, aren't entirely made of calcium. Protein collagen acts as the bone's framework, whereas calcium serves as the filler. With the correct amount of collagen, bones become strong and elastic. collagen also contributes to the production of keratin, which is the main element of hair and nails and helps promote healthy gums and teeth.

Collagen is very important for dogs. That's why at Avantis, we take extra care in ensuring that our dog food has the right amount of collagen for the health of dogs.