What Makes a Healthy and Balanced Dog Diet?
All living organisms are expected to formulate some sort of diet, which becomes their steady source of nutrients. Human beings turn to food for energy and other bodily functions, and the same holds true for animals and plants. An important member of your family is also expected to enjoy a healthy and balanced diet, too—your dog!
They need food beyond just survival, which can come in various forms of diets. It can be rather difficult to determine what could be best for your four-legged best friend, but experts postulate that their diets need to be packed with the essential nutrients—such as water, protein, and of course, fat.
A little knowledge goes a long way, especially when it comes to ensuring that your dog stays happy and healthy. Let’s take a closer look at each of these nutrients:
Water
Life leans on water for existence—our bodies cannot survive without water, especially since our anatomies run mostly on it! The same concept applies to dogs, as more than half their body mass is made up of water.
Apart from being a huge part of their anatomy, however, water is also responsible for dissolving and transporting nutrients to the cells. It’s also important for body temperature regulations, as well as digestion and waste disposal.
These alone should be enough to ensure your dog gets enough water every day, but keep in mind that their requirements will depend heavily on their activity levels, health, and even environmental temperatures. Dogs on dry food will likely need to drink more, but it’s important to allow them constant access to clean and fresh water!
Fat
Apart from water, fat also plays a crucial role in creating healthy and balanced dog nutrition. Healthy fat serves as the most concentrated form of energy, as this houses more calories than carbohydrates and proteins combined.
It also allows your dog to have access to the good fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6, as well as absorbs the vitamins needed by the body. More importantly, however, it protects the internal organs. To make sure that your dog gets enough healthy fat, opt to feed them meals with low-mercury fish, fish oil, and even flaxseed oil.
Protein
Protein is a macronutrient, which means that it’s essential for energy production. Being made up of amino acids, protein is also deemed as the building blocks of life—making it an essential part of your dog’s diet. It keeps their fur strong and healthy, as well as supports muscles, bones, skin, and nails.
Protein is also tasked with supporting the immune system, ensuring that your dog keeps antibodies that keep infections and other ailments away. To supply your dog with protein, make sure to incorporate lean-muscle meats, eggs, beans, lentils, and even fish into their daily meals.
The Bottom Line
Your dog needs a healthy nutritional diet to remain strong and healthy, and the elements listed above should be your starting point. Although dog food can help support a healthy diet, it’s important to always check the label. It’s also worth spicing up their meals by incorporating healthy food items here and there. In time, you’ll have your dog strong, energetic, and healthy—read to live a happy life with your family!
If you’re on the hunt for the best local pet shop in Fremont, EarthWise Pet has you covered. As certified pet dietitians and nutritionists, we offer you pet supplies guaranteed to help keep your dog happy and healthy. Order today!