Dog Nutrition: A Guide to Keeping Your Pet Healthy

• Proteins
• Carbohydrates
• Fats
• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Water

Choosing the Right Dog Food

When buying dog food, look for labels that indicate it provides “complete and balanced nutrition.” This ensures the food meets your dog’s dietary needs. You might also find statements such as:

• “Meets the nutritional requirements of dogs established by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).”
• “Complete and balanced nutrition for dogs based on AAFCO feeding trials.”

Both dry and canned foods can support your dog’s nutritional needs. However, some experts favor dry food as it may promote healthier teeth and gums. If you prefer to make your dog food, use recipes designed by veterinary nutritionists to ensure they meet the “complete and balanced” dog nutrition criteria.

Essential Nutrients for Dog Nutrition

1. Proteins
   Proteins are the building blocks of your dog’s body. While their bodies can produce 13 of the 23 amino acids needed, the other 10 must come from their diet. A protein-rich diet supports body tissue growth, repair, and maintenance.
2. Fats
   Fats are a critical energy source and help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat. Essential fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, omega-6, and omega-3, are vital for overall health. Since dogs cannot produce these acids on their own, it’s important to include them in their diet.
3. Carbohydrates
   Carbs derived from grains and vegetables provide sugars, starches, and fiber, which fuel your dog’s tissues and promote digestive health. A well-balanced diet that includes carbohydrates supports your dog’s overall vitality.
4. Vitamins and Minerals
   Vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in chemical reactions within your dog’s body, such as building strong bones and supporting their immune system. Balanced dog food provides essential nutrients, including:
   • Vitamin A
   • Vitamin D
   • Vitamin E
   • Vitamin K
   • B-complex vitamins
   • Calcium
   • Phosphorus

Unlike humans, dogs do not require vitamin C in their diet as their bodies naturally produce it. Feeding your dog a properly formulated diet ensures they receive all necessary vitamins and minerals without the need for supplements, which could be harmful.

5. Water
   Water is perhaps the most critical component of dog nutrition. While dogs can survive losing all their body fat and half their protein, losing just 10% of their body’s water content can be fatal. Water comprises more than half of an adult dog’s body weight, making it essential to always provide fresh, clean water. While canned food contains some water, it isn’t sufficient to meet your dog’s needs.

Feeding on a Schedule

Having a consistent feeding schedule is important to maintain good dog nutrition. Most adult dogs should be fed once or twice daily, while large breeds may benefit from being fed twice a day to prevent overeating and bloating.

Keep treats and table scraps to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Overindulgence can lead to obesity, which increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues, similar to humans.

Consult Your Veterinarian

Your veterinarian is a valuable resource for tailoring a feeding schedule and diet plan that suits your dog’s specific needs. They can guide you in selecting the best food and portion sizes to maintain your dog’s health and ensure that their nutritional needs are met.

Providing your dog with proper dog nutrition is a cornerstone of their overall health. By offering a balanced diet rich in proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water, you’ll help your dog thrive. Whether you choose commercial food or prepare meals at home, focusing on complete and balanced nutrition will ensure your loyal companion stays happy, healthy, and energetic for years to come.