Canine Nutrition Basics

Canine Nutrition

Nutrient Requirements

• Dogs require a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs, which vary based on factors such as age, breed, and activity level.
• The six essential nutrient groups for dogs are:
  1. Protein
  2. Fat
  3. Carbohydrates
  4. Vitamins
  5. Minerals
  6. Water

Macronutrients

• Protein: essential for growth, maintenance, and repair of body tissues. High-quality protein sources include animal-derived ingredients such as chicken, beef, and fish.
• Fat: provides energy and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Good sources include animal fats and oils.
• Carbohydrates: provide energy and fiber. Good sources include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Micronutrients

• Vitamins: essential for various bodily functions, such as energy metabolism and immune function. Key vitamins for dogs include:
  • Vitamin A: important for vision, immune function, and skin health
  • Vitamin D: crucial for bone health and immune function
  • Vitamin E: acts as an antioxidant
• Minerals: essential for various bodily functions, such as nerve function and bone health. Key minerals for dogs include:
  • Calcium: crucial for bone growth and development
  • Phosphorus: important for bone health and many bodily functions
  • Sodium: helps regulate fluid balance and nerve function

Canine Nutrition

Nutrient Requirements

• Dogs require a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs, varying based on age, breed, and activity level.
• Six essential nutrient groups for dogs: Protein, Fat, Carbohydrates, Vitamins, Minerals, and Water.

Macronutrients

• Protein: essential for growth, maintenance, and repair of body tissues.
• High-quality protein sources include animal-derived ingredients such as chicken, beef, and fish.
• Fat: provides energy and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins.
• Good sources of fat include animal fats and oils.
• Carbohydrates: provide energy and fiber.
• Good sources of carbohydrates include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Micronutrients

• Vitamins: essential for various bodily functions, such as energy metabolism and immune function.
• Key vitamins for dogs include:
  • Vitamin A: important for vision, immune function, and skin health.
  • Vitamin D: crucial for bone health and immune function.
  • Vitamin E: acts as an antioxidant.
• Minerals: essential for various bodily functions, such as nerve function and bone health.
• Key minerals for dogs include:
  • Calcium: crucial for bone growth and development.
  • Phosphorus: important for bone health and many bodily functions.
  • Sodium: helps regulate fluid balance and nerve function.