Canine Nutrition

Welcome to our Canine Nutrition page! At PackWarriors.com, we believe that a well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining the health and vitality of our canine companions. As you scroll through this page, you'll find comprehensive guides on canine diet, food recommendations, and portion control to ensure your furry friends receive the best nutrition possible. We aim to provide valuable insights into understanding your dog's dietary needs and making informed decisions about their meals. From selecting the right type of food to managing portion sizes, our content is designed to support the overall well-being of your beloved dogs. So, let's embark on a journey of discovering the key elements of canine nutrition and creating a happy, healthy life for your four-legged pack members!

PackWarriors.com links to affiliate partners, and as an Amazon Associate, earns a small commission from qualifying purchases. We appreciate your support! - Miguel & Chief :)

PackWarriors.com also reccomends reviewing the AKCtv General Nutrition video resources here

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Canine Nutrition

2. Selecting the Right Dog Food

3. Nutritional Needs for Different Life Stages

4. Homemade vs. Commercial Dog Food: Pros and Cons

5. Special Dietary Considerations for Dogs

1. Understanding Canine Nutrition

The dog's regular diet includes six fundamental nutrients, namely water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Your dog’s unique nutritional requirements will depend on its size, its breed, and its stage in life, among other factors. These essential components play crucial roles in the body's basic functions. While the minimum dietary requirements for many nutrients are well-established, there is also knowledge about the maximum safe levels and potential toxicities. However, the long-term effects of marginal deficiencies or excesses of certain nutrients are not as well understood (Council et al., 2006).

Dietary protein contains 10 specific amino acids that dogs cannot make on their own. Known as essential amino acids, they provide the building blocks for many important biologically active compounds and proteins. Essential fatty acids are necessary to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy. Scientific research has shown that an adult dog’s daily diet can contain up to 50% carbohydrates by weight, including 2.5–4.5% from fiber. A minimum of approximately 5.5% of the diet should come from fats and 10% from protein (Council et al., 2006).

AAFCO sets nutritional guidelines for commercial pet foods. Check that your dog's food meets AAFCO standards, but remember individual needs may vary based on their health. Consult your veterinarian for specific nutrient requirements.

Six Essential Classes of Nutrients Your Dog Needs:

1. Water:

Water is vital for pets, constituting 60 to 70% of their body weight. Ensure fresh water is always available to avoid serious health issues.

2. Proteins:

Essential for growth, maintenance, and repair, proteins can be found in meats (chicken, lamb, turkey, beef, fish, eggs) and some plants.

3. Fats:

Fats provide concentrated energy, support cell structure, and aid vitamin absorption.

4 Carbohydrates:

Carbs supply energy, support intestinal health, and play a role in reproduction.

5. Fiber:

Moderately fermentable fibers like beet pulp promote a healthy gut and manage chronic diarrhea.

5. Vitamins:

Tiny amounts of vitamins are necessary for normal functioning; avoid unnecessary supplements. Here is a brief overview of essential Vitamins and their functions:

• Vitamin A: Vision, growth, immune function, fetal development, cellular differentiation, transmembrane protein transfer.

• Vitamin D: Maintenance of mineral status, phosphorus balance.

• Vitamin E: Defense against oxidative damage.

• Vitamin K: Activation of clotting factors, bone proteins, and other proteins.

• Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): Energy and carbohydrate metabolism, activation of ion channels in neural tissue.

• Riboflavin: Enzyme functions.

• Vitamin B6: Enzyme functions.

• Niacin: Glucose generation, red blood cell function, niacin synthesis, nervous system function, immune response, hormone regulation, gene activation.

• Pantothenic Acid: Enzyme functions.

• Vitamin B12: Energy metabolism, amino acid and nucleotide metabolism, mitochondrial protein synthesis.

• Folic Acid: Enzyme functions.

• Choline: Phospholipid cell membrane component.

6. Minerals:

Crucial for bones, teeth, fluid balance, and metabolic reactions. Here's a brief overview of essential dietary minerals and their functions for dogs:

• Calcium: Formation of bones and teeth; blood coagulation; nerve impulse transmission; muscle contraction; cell signaling.

• Phosphorus: Skeletal structure; DNA and RNA structure; energy metabolism; locomotion; acid-base balance.

• Magnesium: Enzyme functions; muscle and nerve-cell membrane stability; hormone secretion and function; mineral structure of bones and teeth.

• Sodium: Acid-base balance; regulation of osmotic pressure; nerve impulse generation and transmission.

• Potassium: Acid-base balance; nerve impulse transmission; enzymatic reactions; transport functions.

• Chlorine: Acid-base balance; transfer of extracellular fluids across cell membranes.

• Iron: Synthesis of blood components; energy metabolism.

• Copper: Connective tissue formation; iron metabolism; blood cell formation; melanin pigment formation; myelin formation; defense against oxidative damage.

• Zinc: Enzyme reactions; cell replication; protein and carbohydrate metabolism; skin function; wound healing.

• Manganese: Enzyme functions; bone development; neurological function.

• Selenium: Defense against oxidative damage; immune response.

• Iodine: Thyroid hormone synthesis; cell differentiation; growth and development of puppies; regulation of metabolic rate.

2. Selecting The Right Dog Food

The dog's regular diet includes six fundamental nutrients, namely water, proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins. Your dog’s unique nutritional requirements will depend on its size, its breed, and its stage in life, among other factors. These essential components play crucial roles in the body's basic functions. While the minimum dietary requirements for many nutrients are well-established, there is also knowledge about the maximum safe levels and potential toxicities. However, the long-term effects of marginal deficiencies or excesses of certain nutrients are not as well understood (Council et al., 2006).

Dietary protein contains 10 specific amino acids that dogs cannot make on their own. Known as essential amino acids, they provide the building blocks for many important biologically active compounds and proteins. Essential fatty acids are necessary to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy. Scientific research has shown that an adult dog’s daily diet can contain up to 50% carbohydrates by weight, including 2.5–4.5% from fiber. A minimum of approximately 5.5% of the diet should come from fats and 10% from protein (Council et al., 2006).

AAFCO sets nutritional guidelines for commercial pet foods. Check that your dog's food meets AAFCO standards, but remember individual needs may vary based on their health. Consult your veterinarian for specific nutrient requirements.

Feed your dog high-quality food within your budget. Look beyond the nutrition label; ingredient quality matters. Ask your vet for advice, but consider these tips: Opt for diets with real, recognizable, whole-food ingredients. Choose a low-calorie diet, particularly for indoor, spayed/neutered adult dogs. Aim for less than 350 calories per cup to avoid overfeeding and weight gain (Nutrition - General Feeding Guidelines for Dogs | VCA Animal Hospital | VCA Animal Hospitals, n.d.).

Just Food For Dogs

Maev Raw Food

Freshpet

3. Nutritional Needs for Different Life Stages

Puppies

When caring for puppies in their early months, transitioning them from mom's milk to regular puppy food, known as weaning, is essential. Start the weaning process between three to four weeks of age, completing it by seven to eight weeks. During the first four weeks, puppies receive complete nutrition from their mother's milk, so no additional feeding is necessary. If the mother is ill or doesn't produce enough milk, or the pups are orphans, you may need to provide commercial milk replacer; consult your veterinarian for guidance.

Make weaning gradual over several weeks, allowing the mother dog to naturally reduce her milk supply, while the puppies learn vital behaviors from her and littermates. Introduce puppy food around three to four weeks, separating the mother from the litter for short periods, and encouraging the pups to eat from a pan. Be patient during the transition and offer moistened high-quality puppy food to appeal to their palates. Increase food quantity gradually, and by seven to eight weeks, they should consistently eat dry food.

Puppies require up to twice the energy intake of adult dogs and need a food with 25 to 30% protein, depending on the breed. Avoid overfeeding, as rapid growth can lead to health issues. Small breeds may reach their adult size in nine to twelve months, while controlled feeding is crucial for medium and large/giant breeds to prevent bone or joint problems (Dog Nutrition Tips, n.d.).

Adult Dog

Adult dogs need proper nutrients to meet energy requirements and maintain body tissues. The amount of food you give your adult dog should be based on their size and energy output, as activity levels vary among pets and influence caloric intake.

Consider your dog's activity level when determining their energy needs. A moderately active dog may need maintenance energy plus 20 to 40%, while sedentary lap dog might require just 10%. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best feeding schedule and food types for your pet. Dogs with specific jobs, like police or guide dogs, will have varying dietary needs based on their workloads and stress levels. A dog with moderate work may require 40% more energy than maintenance, while a high workload could necessitate an additional 50 to 70%.

External factors like temperature can also affect your dog's food intake. Extreme hot or cold weather may increase energy needs due to extra energy expenditure for keeping warm or cool. Talk to your veterinarian about adjusting food amounts in such conditions.

Use treats in moderation, accounting for only 5% or less of the dog's daily food intake. The remaining nutrition should come from a balanced dog food. When using treats for training, opt for small pieces.

We recommend feeding dogs twice daily, dividing the required food amount into two meals spaced eight to twelve hours apart. There are various feeding methods, including portion-control, free-choice, and timed feeding. Portion-control feeding measures the food and provides it in one or two meals daily, suitable for weight control programs and dogs that may overeat otherwise. Free-choice feeding allows food to be available all the time, best for dry food that won't spoil. Timed feeding involves offering food for a specific period, removing it if not consumed within that time (Dog Nutrition Tips, n.d.).

Senior Dog

Dogs show age-related changes at seven to 12 years old. These changes include metabolism, immunity, and body composition changes. Some are inevitable, while others can be managed with diet. The main goal when feeding older dogs is to maintain health, weight, and prevent chronic diseases (Dog Nutrition Tips, n.d.).

When to start a senior diet depends on your pet's size:

• Small breeds and dogs under 20 pounds: 7 years old

• Medium breeds and dogs weighing 21 to 50 pounds: 7 years old

• Large breeds and dogs weighing 51 to 90 pounds: 6 years old

• Giant breeds and dogs weighing 91 pounds or more: 5 years old

Don't opt for "Senior" diets with reduced protein levels. Older dogs still need sufficient protein for muscle maintenance, and it doesn't cause kidney failure. Feed them diets with digestible protein to maintain muscle mass and avoid weight gain. Consider increasing GLA and FOS intake for healthy skin, coat, and improved gut health. Vitamin E and beta-carotene-rich foods are essential for combating free radical damage and supporting the immune system in senior dogs.Maintain a consistent daily routine and schedule regular vet check-ups to monitor chronic diseases in older pets. Avoid sudden changes that can cause stress (Dog Nutrition Tips, n.d.).

4. Homemade vs. Commercial Dog Food: Pros and Cons

Store-Bought Dog Food

Pros:

• More convenient and time-saving

• Meets nutritional standards for all life stages and breeds

• Shelf-stable and can be bought in bulk

• Fewer concerns about nutrient deficiencies or imbalances

• Easier to find specific foods for dogs with allergies or health issues

Cons:

• Potential for recalls and contamination issues

• Limited control over ingredients and preparation

Homemade Dog Food

Pros:

• Complete control over ingredients and preparation

• Customizable recipes for different flavors and health needs

• No preservatives or additives

• Lower risk of contamination when prepared carefully

Cons:

• Requires meticulous planning and time commitment

• Risk of nutrient deficiencies if not properly supplemented

• Can be expensive due to ingredient costs and necessary supplements

In summary, store-bought dog food offers convenience, balanced nutrition, and a variety of options. Homemade dog food provides control over ingredients and preparation but demands careful planning and attention to nutrient balance. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, so it's essential to consider your dog's specific needs and consult with a veterinary nutrition expert when deciding which option is best.

5. Special Dietary Considerations for Dogs

Dogs, like people, can be affected by allergies, sensitive stomachs, and dietary restrictions. Feeding dogs with special dietary needs can be challenging. To address this, consult your veterinarian for advice on the best dog food to manage their condition. If your pet has a chronic illness, their regular food may no longer be suitable and could have contributed to their health problems. Switching to a special diet tailored for their condition can alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

For instance, in the case of kidney disease, opt for food low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium. Some dietary options for kidney disease offer renal support with ingredients like cranberries and dried dandelion to aid the urinary tract. Maintaining high-moisture diets is crucial for kidney health, and you can mix kibble with canned food or add bone broth, warm water, or goat's milk.

For digestive issues, consider sensitive stomach food containing easy-to-digest white rice and soothing herbs. Food intolerances may lead to itchy skin and a yeasty odor, but an elimination diet with a single novel protein can help identify triggers. Additionally, hydrolyzed protein diets may assist pets with intolerances.

References

1. Dog nutrition tips. (n.d.). ASPCA. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-nutrition-tips

2. Council, N. R., Studies, D. O. E. a. L., Resources, B. O. a. a. N., Nutrition, C. O. A., & Nutrition, S. O. D. a. C. (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press.

3. Nutrition - General Feeding Guidelines for dogs | VCA Animal Hospital | VCA Animal Hospitals. (n.d.). Vca. https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/nutrition-general-feeding-guidelines-for-dogs