Key Nutrients for Optimal Dog Health
Pet owners refer to their dogs by various nicknames. Doggos, four-legged friends and canine companions. But have you ever stopped to wonder what it means to be classified as a canine, especially when it comes to daily dog nutrition?
A ‘canine’ is defined as a mammal part of the Carnivora species with a snout, non-retractable claw, and similar tooth structure. Today’s 400 distinct dog breeds are subspecies of the grey wolf, which was domesticated 12,000 years ago to be a protector and hunting companion. Understanding this evolutionary history is important when it comes to their daily dietary needs and providing a balanced diet for dogs.
A common mistake many people make is classifying dogs as carnivores. Today’s modern dog is, in fact, an omnivore. Their tooth structure and intestinal tract have adapted to this diet since their pure carnivorous diet thousands of years ago. This means essential nutrients for dogs are required on a daily basis to ensure they are healthy. Essentially, there are six basic nutrients: water, protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins.
Water
Pet owners might be surprised to learn that water does so much more for a dog’s health than hydrate the body. If you consider that 70 – 80% of a dog’s lean body mass is made from water, it is easy to understand why this is seen as such an important nutritional need for dogs. Water helps a dog’s body to:
- Dissolve and transport nutrients to cells
- Regulates body temperature
- Hydrolyses other nutrients for digestion
- Protects organs
- Protects the nervous system
- Flushes waste
Carbohydrates
Most importantly, carbohydrates provide energy to dogs – they convert it to simple sugars, which can then be easily absorbed by the body. In the form of glucose, this quick energy source is vital not only for the body’s normal functioning but the brain and nervous system as well.
Protein
As with carbohydrates and fats, protein is another source of energy for dogs. However, protein also supplies essential and non-essential amino acids that give the body structure, such as organs, muscles, bones, skin and hair. Protein is also necessary for hormone production, antibodies and enzymes needed for a dog’s body to function. A dog’s body doesn’t produce enough levels of amino acids to build enough protein, which is why it is an essential nutrient in a dog’s daily diet.
Vitamins
To stay healthy, dogs need a daily dose of vitamins as part of a balanced diet. The most essential vitamins for dogs are Vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K to keep their appearance healthy, maintain good organ function and recover from illnesses. Keep in mind that age, size, breed and current health problems could affect the amount of vitamins or type of vitamins your dog requires. It is advisable to take your dog to the vet if you suspect they have a vitamin deficiency.
Fat
Fat is a macronutrient, which are made from fatty acids – either saturated, polyunsaturated, or monounsaturated. A dog’s fat supplies provide a source of energy, as well as essential omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. This nutrient also protects the organs, regulates the dog’s body temperature, enables the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and supports the nervous system.
Minerals
Most people are very aware of the importance of vitamins, but less so when it comes to minerals – despite being extremely important for the body. A dog’s body requires these inorganic compounds (both macro and microminerals) to carry oxygen throughout the body, heal wounds, regulate fluid balance, bone building and other life-essential functions. Dogs’ bodies don’t manufacture minerals, so they must get it from the food they eat.
Dog food for strong dogs
To ensure your strong dog stays strong, happy and healthy, Bobtail dog food was developed with 23 essential vitamins and minerals for a perfectly balanced combination of animal-based protein, cereals and vegetable derivatives. Made with Vitarite, this means that feeding dogs Bobtail means your furry friend’s nutritional requirements are being met.
References:
Nutrition – General Feeding Guidelines for Dogs
Let’s Talk Dog Nutrition — 6 Essential Nutrients Dogs Need
5 Essential Nutrients Dogs Need – Wellness Through Nutrition
Dog Nutrition: Guide to Dog Food Nutrients
Carbohydrates: Key to a Balanced Dog Food
9 Dog Supplements for Optimal Canine Health at Any Age, According to Veterinarians