Joanna Wilson
Over current history, dog owners have been increasingly conscious of what they feed their dogs. However, with so many various dog food formulas and brands to choose from, it can be difficult to determine what truly makes a dog meal nutritional and balanced.
This post will cover all you need to know about dog nutrition as well as provide you a checklist of what to look for in a dog food.
- Proteins
- Carbohydrates
- Fats
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Water
To make sure the dog food you buy has the right mix of nutrients, look for the words “complete and balanced nutrition” on the label.
You might also see “Meets the nutritional requirements of dogs established by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)” or “Complete and balanced nutrition for dogs based on AAFCO feeding trials.”
Your dog will benefit from both dry and canned dog food. Dry food, according to some experts, may help maintain teeth and gums healthy.
If you’re making your own dog food, use nutritionist-created recipes to ensure it’s complete and balanced.
Essential Nutrients
Proteins: Proteins make up body tissues. Only 13 of the 23 amino acids that make up proteins are produced by your dog’s body. The remaining ten must come from food.
Fats: Fats provide energy to your dog. They also aid in the health of your dog’s skin and coat. The following are some essential fatty acids for your dog:
- Linoleic acid
- Omega-6
- Omega-3
Because your dog’s body cannot produce enough necessary fatty acids on its own, they must consume food that contains them.
Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are derived from plants. When your dog consumes grains and veggies, they obtain the following benefits:
- Sugars
- Starches
- Fiber
Carbohydrates provide energy to your dog’s tissues. They also aid in the proper functioning of your dog’s intestines.
Vitamins and minerals: These are required for many chemical reactions in your dog’s body, including the formation and maintenance of strong bones.
In balanced dog food, your dog can get all of the vitamins and minerals he or they requires, including:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- B-complex vitamins
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
Vitamin C is not required in the diet of dogs because it is produced by their bodies.
Your dog will not require vitamin or mineral supplements if they eat nutritious food. Supplementing your dog’s diet can actually be detrimental.
Water: Dogs can survive if they lose all of their body fat and half of their protein. However, water is so vital to their survival that even if they lose 10% of their body’s water, they will perish. An mature dog’s body weight is more than half water.
Although canned dog food contains a lot of water, it is insufficient for your dog. Ensure your dog has access to fresh, clean moisture.
You May also like: How to Select the Best Dog Bed
Feed on a Schedule
Adult dogs should usually be fed once or twice a day. To avoid eating and becoming bloated, most large-breed dogs should be fed at least twice a day.
Treats and table scraps should never account for more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, according to experts. Overeating can make your dog fat, just like it can make people fat. And this can lead to the same health issues that people do, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Your veterinarian can assist you in determining the best diet and feeding regimen for your dog.
