The Importance Of Canine Nutrition
For the longest time, people fed their dogs whatever they found at their local grocery store without overthinking it. Hard kibble and canned food were the only real options. At least, until we started to analyze what exactly was in these foods, or should we say, what wasn’t in them.
Most dog foods on the shelves don’t contain much in the way of nutrients. They’re made with fillers, cornmeal and other by-products that you wouldn’t want to eat. So why do we think it’s ok to feed it to our furry friends? Our dogs offer us so much and are such an integral part of our lives. They deserve to eat healthy, delicious and nutritious food, and we can help with that.
A Little History Lesson About Dog Food
Experts believe that we started domesticating dogs roughly 16,000 years ago and that they have been around us for close to 30,000 years. Roman philosopher and poet Marcus Terentius Varro wrote a manual about canine nutrition around 2000 BCE. In this manual, Varro advised that dogs should be provided with meat, bones and barley soaked in milk. Varro must have been a dog lover too.
By the 14th century, many hunters and farmers had written books referring to what is best to feed dogs, especially dogs that were active, such as greyhounds and other hunting dogs of the times. The science of canine meal formulation has continued to evolve to this day. We are more aware than ever of what our dogs should and shouldn’t be eating.
Why Canine Nutrition is so Important
As with humans, dogs require a balanced and nutritional diet consisting of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins and water. This combination gives them the energy they need to support their daily lives and protect them against various ailments, illnesses and diseases.
Besides the odd snack or treat (and even those can be healthy), everything that your dog eats should provide some form of nutritional support. It might take a little bit of research and trial and error to see what your dog likes, but the payoff comes in the form of having a dog that will live a long and happy life.
Something owners may also need to consider how a diet might need to be altered during life-stage changes. For example, the dietary requirements of a puppy differ significantly from that of a senior dog. The foods we feed our dogs should supply them with the proper nutrients for their current age and lifestyle.
Nutrients That All Dogs Need
To help your dog feel and look their best, here are some examples of the nutrients they need and what they offer your canine companion:
Proteins – Proteins help to provide your dog with a great source of energy. They help assist with the function and growth of muscles.
Fats – Your dog needs fatty acids in its diet, such as omega-6 and omega-3. These fats also help to provide energy, helps to keep their skin and coat shiny and healthy and help with brain function.
Vitamins and Minerals – The right vitamins and minerals are a necessity in a dog’s diet. They help with muscle movement, nerve transmission and help prevent disease and illness.
Carbohydrates – Although a less integral part of a dog’s diet, carbohydrates can help supply your dog with a source of quick energy that encourages them to be active and energetic.
Contact us today to find out how we can help construct an individualized diet plan to provide your dog with all the nutrition they need to live a long, happy and healthy life.
