High-quality dog food typically includes a balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Here are the essential ingredients that you need for a balanced dog food:
Protein Sources
Animal-Based Proteins: A dog needs at least 22% protein daily. Animal-based proteins are preferred Ingredients for dog food. Animal protein sources typically have about 35% higher protein concentration than plant-based protein.
Dr. Saza Curaming says, “A high-quality protein food for dogs can provide amino acids. Amino acids play a key part in building hair, skin, nails, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Protein plays a key role in hormone and enzyme production.”
Natural protein sources for dogs are –
- Chicken
- Beef
- Lamb
- Turkey
- Fish
- duck
Plant-Based Proteins: To prevent protein deficiency, AAFCO recommends protein ingestion of 4.5 grams/100 kcal for adult dogs and 5.63 grams/100 kcal for pregnant or nursing dogs and puppies.But plant-based proteins for dog foods are –
- Peas
- Lentils
- chickpeas
- Soy
- Buckwheat
- Barley
- Green Peas
Fats
Animal Fats: Chicken fat, beef fat, and fish oil are good sources of essential fatty acids, like omega-3 and omega-6, which support healthy skin, coat, and brain function.
Animal-based fats, such as chicken fat and beef fat, are rich in triglycerides and arachidonic acid, both of which play significant roles in various biological processes. Arachidonic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid, is essential for the synthesis of eicosanoids, which help regulate inflammation and immune response.
Plant Oils: On the other hand, plant-based oils provide a diverse range of fatty acids. Fish oil, purified algal oil, and flaxseed oil are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These oils are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. These oils help balance the omega-3 to omega-6 ratio in the diet, which is important for maintaining optimal health.
Professor Andrew Knight, a veterinary expert at the University of Winchester, suggests that dogs on vegan diets may experience improved health outcomes compared to those fed meat-based diets. Best plant-oil sources are –
- Canola oil
- Flaxseed oil
- Sunflower oil
- Flaxseed oil
Carbohydrates
Whole Grains: They are an excellent source of dog food, but they aren’t the substitute for protein. The best sources for carbohydrates are –
- Brown rice
- Barley
- Oatmeal
- Quinoa
Grain-Free Alternatives: Grain free alternative sources for dog foods are-
- Sweet potatoes
- Peas
- Lentils
- potatoes
Fiber
Vegetables: Vegetable aids digestion and helps maintain healthy bowel movements. Vegetable sources for dogs are-
- Carrots
- Pumpkin
- spinach
- Green beans
- Peas
Fibrous grains: Fibrous grains help support digestion. For dog food, the ingredients are-
- beet pulp
- cellulose
Vitamins and Minerals
Essential Vitamins: Vitamins A, C, D, and E are important for maintaining immune function, skin health, and overall well-being. Good sources of vitamins for dogs are-
- Apples – Vitamin C
- Broccoli – Vitamin A, C, D
- Carrots – Vitamin A
- Cantaloupe – Vitamin A
- Oranges – Vitamin C
Minerals: Calcium, phosphorus, iron, selenium, potassium, and magnesium are needed for bone health, nerve function, and muscle activity. For dog foods, the mineral sources are –
Calcium
Role: Crucial for bone and teeth development, muscle function, and nerve transmission.
Sources: Dairy products, bone meal, and fish.
Phosphorus
Role: Works with calcium to support healthy bones and teeth, also important for energy production and metabolism.
Sources: Meat, fish, and eggs.
Magnesium
Role: Helps maintain normal muscle and nerve function, supports a healthy immune system, and is involved in the synthesis of protein.
Sources: Green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Sodium
Role: Essential for maintaining proper fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.
Sources: Table salt, meat, and fish (but should be provided in moderation).
Chloride
Role: Works alongside sodium to help maintain fluid balance and acid-base balance in the body.
Sources: Salt and meat.
Potassium
Role: Regulates fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle function, including the heart.
Sources: Bananas, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
Iron
Role: Critical for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood.
Sources: Red meat, liver, and poultry.
Zinc
Role: Important for immune function, skin health, and wound healing.
Sources: Meat, shellfish, and whole grains.
Copper
Role: Plays a role in the formation of red blood cells, the absorption of iron, and the maintenance of healthy connective tissue.
Sources: Organ meats, shellfish, and whole grains.
Manganese
Role: Important for bone formation, enzyme function, and metabolism.
Sources: Whole grains, seeds, and leafy greens.
Iodine
Role: Essential for thyroid hormone production, which regulates metabolism.
Sources: Seaweed and iodized salt.
Selenium
Role: Acts as an antioxidant and is important for maintaining a healthy immune system.
Sources: Meat, seafood, and grains.
Animal-Based Organ Meats
Liver and Heart: These organ meats are highly nutritious, offering a dense source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A and B vitamins.
Probiotics and Prebiotics
Probiotics: These beneficial bacteria help support gut health and digestion. You can get probiotics in these foods-
- Yogurt
- Kefir
Prebiotics: Ingredients like chicory root help nourish the probiotics and maintain a balanced digestive system.
Natural Flavor Enhancers
Broth or Stock: Used to enhance taste and provide additional nutrients.
Natural flavors: Often derived from animal sources to enhance palatability.
Additives and Preservatives
Tocopherols (Vitamin E): A natural preservative that helps maintain the freshness of the food.
Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Also acts as a preservative and supports the immune system.
Daily Intake for dog food
When choosing dog food, always look for high-quality, well-balanced formulas that match your pet’s age, size, and activity level.
Fibre : 10-15% of the diet
Protein : 25-30% of the diet
Vegetables: 25-30% of the diet
Oil or Fats: 10-15% of the diet
Choose the Right Type of Dog Food
There are several types of dog food to consider:
Commercial Dog Food: Quality commercial dog foods are formulated to meet all of your dog’s nutritional needs. Look for brands that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for balanced nutrition.
- Dry Kibble: Convenient, helps with dental health, and easy to store.
- Wet Food: Moisture-rich and often more palatable but can be pricier.
- Raw or Freeze-Dried: Raw diets can be beneficial if done properly but require careful preparation.
Homemade Dog Food: Some pet owners prefer to cook for their dogs. If you choose to make your dog’s food at home, it’s important to consult a vet or pet nutritionist to ensure it is nutritionally balanced.
Calculation for Homemade Dog Food Portions
To calculate the right amount of homemade food for your dog, it’s important to base the portions on their weight, age, and activity level. A general guideline is to feed 2-3% of your dog’s ideal body weight per day. For example:
Let’s calculate for a 40-pound (18 kg) adult dog.
Determine the Total Daily Food Requirement:
2% of 40 pounds: 40×0.02=0.8 pounds of food per day40 \times 0.02 = 0.8 \, \text{pounds of food per day}40×0.02=0.8pounds of food per day
3% of 40 pounds: 40×0.03=1.2 pounds of food per day40 \times 0.03 = 1.2 \, \text{pounds of food per day}40×0.03=1.2pounds of food per day
So, a 40-pound dog should eat between 0.8 and 1.2 pounds of homemade food per day.
Break It Down into Meals: If you feed your dog twice a day, you can divide the total daily portion by two:
0.8 pounds per day / 2 = 0.4 pounds per meal
1.2 pounds per day / 2 = 0.6 pounds per meal
Thus, you should feed your dog between 0.4 and 0.6 pounds of food per meal, depending on their specific needs.
Portioning the Food: You can now divide the food into the appropriate ingredients (proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vegetables) to make a balanced meal. For example:
Protein: 50% of the meal = 0.4 pounds of protein (e.g., chicken, turkey, or beef)
Carbohydrates: 30% of the meal = 0.12 pounds of cooked rice or sweet potatoes
Vegetables: 20% of the meal = 0.08 pounds of carrots or peas
Fats: Add 1 tablespoon of fish oil or olive oil
By following these calculations and guidelines, you can create meals that ensure your dog is getting the right amount of nutrients in each meal while maintaining a healthy weight. Always monitor your dog’s body condition and adjust the portions as needed based on their activity level and health.
Foods Not Recommended by Vets
American Veterinary Medical Association advises to avoid these 7 foods for your dog. Thay may be hazardous for your furry friends. These foods are –
- Xylitol-containing products
- Chocolate
- Onions
- Grapes and raisins
- Fatty and fried foods
- Macadamia nuts
- Avocados
Reference:
- 3 reasons why animal-based protein might be better for your dog. IAMS
- 7 Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Dog or Cat. American Veterinary Medical Association.
