A healthy dog diet contains six nutrients that will support your dog’s physiological and energy needs.
Of course, every dog is an individual. And, because of that, your dog’s physical condition will determine how much of each nutrient she needs.
How is this determined? A dog with a chronic or temporary health condition will require increased nutrition, perhaps in the form of dog vitamins.
And a dog who works hard (herds, races or hunts) will also require added canine nutrition and more dog food than one who is sedentary.
In addition, a nursing mother or a pregnant female will require additional nutrients.
A healthy dog diet for a Weimaraner who hunts
is different than the diet for a Bichon Frise.
The 6 Important Nutrients
In a Healthy Dog Diet
These nutrients are important for every healthy dog diet, but in different amounts, especially if your dog has special needs:
1. Water
Your dog could live for a while without food, but not without water!
An adult dog’s body is 50-60% water.
You should keep fresh water in front of your dog at all times. How much? A medium size dog who eats dry dog food or kibble can drink up to 2 quarts a day.
2. Proteins
Dogs need the amino acids that build proteins. They manufacture some of their own proteins. The building blocks for protein come from eggs, meat, fish, grains and vegetables.
3. Carbohydrates
provide your dog with energy and keep your dog’s intestines working smoothly so that food passes through her system efficiently. Carbs come from grains. Your dog’s diet should include no more than 50% carbs.
4. Healthy Fats
A high quality balanced dog food will include fats. Active, hard-working dogs require more fat in their diets than others. For example, sled dogs can eat up to 40% fat in their diets and still be healthy.
5. Vitamins
Both vegetables and grains provide vitamins for your dog.
6. Minerals
A healthy balanced diet should also provide minerals like zinc and calcium to your dog.
Providing a healthy diet for your dog does depend on your dog’s special needs. However, you can make your own dog food or buy quality dog foods that will have safe ingredients and will meet your dog nutrition needs.
