What Are The Main Ingredients In Dog Food? Dogs are part of the family and of course you want to provide the best nutrition for them. Therefore, as owners, you definitely want to know what nutrients are in their feed. The following is the food content that should be in your dog’s feed.
What Are The Main Ingredients In Dog Food?
Dogs are carnivores that need 37 essential nutrients which are divided into 6 main nutrients: protein, water, fat, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. With quality feed, it means you have maintained your dog’s health until his old age.
1. Proteins
Protein comes from meat, poultry, fish or from plant foods such as corn and soybean meal. Protein’s role is to supply essential amino acids that help maintain hair, skin, tendons, muscles, nails, ligaments, cartilage and hormones.
In older persons dog food the protein content is generally 18-30%, while in puppies it is generally higher. In senior dogs have lower protein.
2. Fat
Fats come from meat, poultry, fish and vegetable oils such as flax and vegetable oils. Fat functions to maintain the dog’s body temperature, helps absorption of vitamins and energy storage 2 x more than carbohydrates or protein. Fat products, namely omega 6, function to maintain skin and coat structure, while omega 3 helps blood clot and reduce inflammation.
3. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a great source of energy and aid digestion. Carbohydrates are obtained from corn, soybeans, wheat, rice, oats, barley and peas. As long as your dog doesn’t have allergies to these ingredients, they are fine to eat.
4. Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins are also very important for their needs. Vitamin B, vitamin A, and vitamin E are among the most important for his needs. Vitamins function to help bone growth, blood clotting, to energy production and antioxidants.
Minerals are also important for strengthening the body’s skeleton and supporting muscles and nerves. L-carnitine is one of the most important vitamins.
5. Water
Water is important for your dog’s needs. Be sure to always provide fresh and clean water for them.
In the dog food diet, what must be fulfilled?
- Sources of animal protein are the main ingredients.
- Easily digestible source of carbohydrates
- Healthy fats like chicken fat and salmon oil
- Omega-3 fatty acids, chondroitin and Glucosamine.
- Vitamins C and E
It’s best to avoid soy, seeds, or vegetable protein because they don’t have enough nutrition.
Foods to avoid
- Preservatives made by BHT, BHA, and ethoxyquine.
- A diet that only says “meat” and is not specific
- Artificial colors and flavors are shown with an E number (dyes/flavors)
If you choose a dog food, make sure it has the nutritional values mentioned above, so that it helps meet the nutritional needs of each development. However, if you are still unsure about suitable feed, you can consult your veterinarian to get suitable food according to their needs.
FAQs About Dog Food
What should I look for in a high-quality dog food?
A high-quality dog food should contain a high percentage of animal-based protein, whole grains, and vegetables. It should also contain healthy sources of fat, such as fish oil and flaxseed, and a balance of essential vitamins and minerals.
Can I feed my dog a vegetarian or vegan diet?
While it is possible to feed your dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, it is important to consult with your veterinarian first.
Dogs are carnivores by nature and require a high percentage of animal-based protein in their diet. A vegetarian or vegan diet may not provide all the essential nutrients that your dog needs to thrive.
Wrap Up
Understanding the ingredients in your dog’s food is essential for providing them with the best possible nutrition. Look for high-quality sources of protein, carbohydrates, and fat, and a balance of essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid fillers and low-quality sources of protein, and always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
