You’ve given into your children’s demands and picked up a puppy from the shelter. It will need a lot of love and attention to stay happy and healthy.
Part of this love is making sure that it eats the right foods. What nutrients do dogs need? Protein is the main thing to focus on, but it’s not the only thing.
They have to have a variety of different vitamins and minerals, not to mention fats and carbohydrates. We can help you pick out the right food for your pupper. Check out this guide to learn what to look for when you go shopping.
Protein
First up on the list is protein. Amino acids are what make up this essential nutrient. Unfortunately, your dog’s body only contains 10 out of the 23 amino acids needed to make the process work.
They have to pick up the missing ones through their diet. On top of creating proteins, amino acids also provide the carbon chains that are necessary for making the glucose that canines use for energy.
Fat
Fats have a bad reputation, but they are essential to most animal’s diets. In the case of dogs, it keeps their coat nice and shiny. It’s also good for their skin, and it provides them with energy.
Like with amino acids, your dog can’t produce enough healthy fatty acids on their own. They need a little boost from the foods that they eat.
Some fatty acids that you should be looking out for on the ingredients label are omega-3, linoleic acid, and omega-6.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Like humans, dog nutrition should include plenty of essential vitamins and minerals. They needed it to keep all their bodily systems in good working order.
Every dog food guide will tell you to make sure your pet gets plenty of vitamin A, D, E, and K. The vitamin B complex is also important. As is phosphorus and calcium.
They don’t need vitamin C, but that’s only because their body does a good job of producing enough of that already. You don’t need to add any more to their diet.
Carbohydrates
In the debate of what to feed dogs, carbohydrates have been considered a no-go. In truth, your dog can digest them just fine. In fact, they can use them for energy.
It also keeps their intestines in good working order and gives their muscle tissues a boost. So, make sure their food from Zip.dog contains plenty of grains and veggies.
What Nutrients Do Dogs Need on a Daily Basis?
What nutrients do dogs need daily? The truth is, their dietary needs aren’t much different than yours. They need plenty of protein, carbohydrates, good fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals to stay healthy and strong.
If their food doesn’t have these things, you may find that they turn their nose up at their meal.
Mealtime is only one thing that you should take into consideration when you get a new puppy. Check out our blog daily to find out what else your best friend is going to need.
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