Cheap Pet Insurance

September 26th, 2009 by K.C. Jones

Your dog’s health is largely dependent on the dog food you are feeding. Understanding your dog’s nutritional requirements will go a long way in keeping them healthy and happy.

In order for your dog to grow, they need essential nutrients. Without these nutrients, your dog may experience poor health, stunted growth, shortened lifespan, and allergy symptoms.

All animals need five basic nutrients to survive: protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Without the proper balance of these five nutrients, they can provide the different functions necessary to sustain the health and well-being of your pet.

Proteins are made up of amino acids. They are considered the building blocks to your dog’s health. Some, but not all, necessary amino acids are synthesized by the dog. However, the other essential amino acids must come from your dog’s food.

You need to make sure your dog food has an adequate amount of protein, mainly made up from animal, not grain, sources. But like all things, too much is not good and can lead to obesity (since protein that is not used is converted to fat) and has been linked to temperament problems in dogs.

Fats are as necessary for dogs as humans. Most people don’t think about the fat content, or the kind of fat, that is in their dog’s food. But without the correct kinds and amounts, your dog will suffer. Fats are needed for a healthy skin and coat, proper kidney function, and to transport the fat-soluble vitamins to cells. But just like with proteins, too much can cause problems, such as obesity.

Carbohydrates are your dog’s main energy source. But like fats, not all carbs are created equal – at least in your dog food. Look for dog foods that have whole grains, not by-products of the grain, as these contain less of the necessary nutrients that your dog needs. Certain grains, such as corn, soy, and wheat, are common sources of carbs in your dog food and also common allergy triggers.

Vitamins and Minerals are the last area of necessary nutrients for your dog. These should be supplied naturally through your dog food. However, some dog foods will need to add in a lot of vitamins and minerals because they get destroyed in the manufacturing process of the food. But these vitamins and minerals will start to diminish in both quality and quantity the longer the bag of food is opened – so you won’t get as much by the bottom of the bag as you do when you first open it. To ensure optimal health for your dog, you should provide a specially formulated vitamin supplement.