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One may be confused with all the different types of dog food on the market today. But, when you break it all down, it really is quite simple. What you feed your dog is up to you, but in order for your dog to live a healthy, active life he or she will need the essential nutrients.
Dogs need the same exact nutrients that humans do. Daily amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals are all essential for his survival. There is only one difference in which dogs differ from humans: the amount and form in which their food should be supplied.
Proteins are necessary for growth and repair. Most dogs require between 18 and 20 percent of protein in their daily rations. These proteins are broken down into amino acids and are thus distributed throughout the body and used for growth, body repairs, heat and energy.
Fat is a source of energy and heat for a dog. Fat is composed of essential fatty acids and are a huge requirement in your dog's diet. Three of these fatty acids are linoleic, linolenic, and arachidonic. These three are especially necessary. Linoleic acid is found in vegetable and animal fats. Linolenic is found only in oils and arachidonic acid is found in some animal fats.
If you dog doesn't get enough of the fatty acids in his diet, physical signs will be present. You may notice changes in skin condition, nervous system and resistance to disease.
Carbohydrates are a super source of energy. They can be found in green plants or vegetables as sugars and starches. In dog foods, carbohydrates come in the form of fiber or bulk.
Vitamins and minerals are needed to promote growth. Calcium provides your dog with good, strong teeth and bones. Iron is needed for red blood cells. Vitamins such as A, B-complex, D and E are essential for normal nutrition. Vitamin C is already made with in the dog's body, so it is not necessary to supply it. A deficiency of vitamins within a dog's diet can result in rickets, poor and hair, lack of appetite and nervous disorders.
Before you go and start giving you dog just any kind of food, you must first take into account the dog's age, breed, size and activity. Talk to your veterinarian about the amount and kind of dog food you should be supplying your dog.
Know that if your dog is getting the proper nutrition in his diet, there is no need for supplements. Dogs who are lactating or are pregnant will need some supplements, however.
It is important to set regular feeding hours for your dog. For puppies, 4 times a day is sufficient. As your dog grows older, a once a day or twice a day feeding is a good idea. Talk to your veterinarian about the amount your dog should receive.
And, lastly, always keep a clean supply of water on hand.
Keeping your dog nutritionally in shape is very important for your dog to live a long, healthy and happy life.
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