Buying food for ourselves is hard enough with all the different diets, recommendations, and a list of unknown ingredients. This task is no easier when determining what’s best for your dog. This article is the introduction to basic contents of dog food and some things to be wary of. The basic contents of modern dog food are Proteins, Macronutrients, Carbohydrates, Lipids (fats), Micronutrients, and Minerals.
Macronutrient
A macronutrient is a big word used to describe the components of dog food such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.
Protein
Protein makes up the structural components of body tissues. Protein supplies amino acids for muscle and organ function while supporting the creation of hormones, energy and help regulating the body’s pH. There are 22 different types of amino acids, canines naturally synthesize some, however 10 amino acids are needed from their diet alone. These 10 amino acids are known as essential amino acids. Some amino acids depend on one another to perform certain actions, meaning if one was missing from the diet, the rest of the amino acids will not be able to perform correctly; these are called limited amino acids. To ensure your pup is receiving the proper amount of protein with amino acids, you should be looking for a complete protein. Animal meat, a complete protein, will provide all necessary amino acids, whereas plant protein does not produce high enough levels of some amino acids. Feeding only plant-based protein creates a need to provide additional supplements to support proper biological function.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a source of energy, and help supply glucose in the blood. While dogs can live without carbohydrates, it benefits your dog’s health to include them. Thyroid function is dependent on carbohydrate intake due to its vitamin B properties. Carbohydrates also contribute fiber, giving a healthier GI tract and yes, better poop! While carbohydrates help keep our dogs energized, too many carbs or the wrong carbs can lead to obesity and unbalanced glucose levels.
Lipids
Lipids are another primary source of energy for dogs. They also contribute to the digestion of vitamins, leading to a healthier and happier pup! Fat is extremely important in our dog’s diet, like many things in life too much fat can become problematic. Facilitating fats, also known as saturated fats, are commonly found in animal meat sources and are needed to absorb nutrients from vitamins. Functional Fats typically come from both plant and animal-based origins such as vegetables, fish, and flaxseed. Within functional fats, we have essential fatty acids. Our dogs cannot naturally create the five essential fatty acids which is why it is so important for us to supply or add supplements for a balanced diet!
Micronutrients
Micronutrients are the nutrients the body gets from digesting macronutrients. In short, micronutrients are the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids received in the body from digestion. Vitamins that are required for dogs to receive are Vitamin A, B(complex), C, D, E, K, and Choline. Each vitamin plays a different part in the digestive process supporting everything from heart rate, cognition, and skin.
Minerals
There are two types of minerals: essential macrominerals and essential microminerals. Essential Macrominerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, and chloride. Essential Microminerals include iron, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, and iodine. Other contents that can be included in dog food support health are supplements. This can include glucosamine for joint health or probiotics to support the gut and associated functions.
