Fats. Fats are the main source of dietary energy (or calories) in a dog's diet and provide the most concentrated source of energy in foods. One gram of fat contains more than twice the energy than one gram of protein or carbohydrate. They are needed for healthy skin, coat, eyes, brain, and other tissues.

Healthy fats come from sources such as:

Chicken fat
Lamb fat
Sunfl ower oil
Herring oil

Carbohydrates. Along with proteins and fats, carbohydrates are one of the three major nutrients in food and a major source of energy for a dog's body.

Sedentary dogs have a lower energy requirement than their more active canine counterparts to produce the energy needed to fuel their brain and muscles. Most commercial dog foods contain as much as 30 to 60 percent carbohydrates because a minimum proportion of starch is needed in the formula for the commercial extrusion process, and, many believe, because carbohydrates are less expensive than proteins and fats.

Dogs can't digest uncooked grain as easily as meats, so if grains are fed, it is important to cook them to increase digestibility. Simmer rice or other grains until they are soft. To add a little extra flavor, cook them in chicken or beef broth.

Good sources of carbohydrates include:

Rice
Corn
Potatoes
Barley
Whole grain breads and other grains

Vitamins and Minerals. One thing a dog's body can't do on its own is make vitamins (though vitamin C is an exception).

Vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium are essential nutrients that can be found in the following foods:

Bread
Dairy products
Fish
Fruits and vegetables
Grains
Milk

While most commercial pet food manufacturers claim their products are "complete and balanced," (a claim they substantiate through feeding trials or by meeting certain requirements) these products may lose necessary vitamins and minerals, which may be destroyed by the heating process.

There is some debate as to whether a dog's diet needs to be supplemented with vitamins and minerals so you may want to consult a holistic veterinarian before doing so. Holistic veterinarians have all the same training as a conventional veterinarian but incorporate alternative medicine (this might include homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic, herbs, etc.) in their practice, as well.

Fatty Acids. Dietary fatty acids can be classified as essential and nonessential.

Nonessential fatty acids can be synthesized within a dog's body at a level that meets the pet's requirements, whereas essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized, so they must be supplied in the diet.

Dogs require one essential fatty acid (linoleic acid), which is a type of omega- 6 fatty acid. Linoleic acid helps the body to:

Regulate the blood fl ow to body tissues
Clot blood after an injury
Reproduce normally
Respond to injury and infection by boosting the immune system
Maintain a handsome coat and healthy skin

This fatty acid is found primarily in grains and animal fat, and is provided at appropriate levels in high- quality dog foods.

Your Dog’s Necessary Nutrients

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