Dog Nutrition
Building Blocks for Health

Dog Nutrition is more important than just food that fills the belly. Canine nutrition is a combination of minerals, vitamins, fats and protein, carbohydrates and water, which can be used physiologically by your dog for its' overall health and well being.

A dogs diet should be made up of all these essential elements needed for good health of all small dog breeds.

The basis of good dog nutrition begins and ends with fresh water. Clean water must be available at all times, night and day, summer and winter. Keep the water bowl clean and sterilize regularly in boiling water with a detergent or pop it into your dishwasher. This goes for the food bowl too. Just because it looks clean does not mean that it is germ free. Germs lurk, waiting to attach to your animal.

Your dog food should contain all of these ingredients in a balanced format:

Proteins are chemicals made up of other chemicals - Amino Acids. Dogs can make some amino acids in their bodies and others must be provided in their food. Proteins from animals - meat and meat by-products - are easier to extract and digest than proteins from plant sources. High protein feeds are recommended for puppies and working dogs, but too much protein can cause kidney disease and has been implicated in temperament problems in adult dogs.

Fats are usually misunderstood, as they are most commonly considered responsible for dog obesity.  A high fat diet will cause obesity if the dog is not regularly exercised, as fats are higher in calories than protein or carbohydrates. However, fats are essential for a healthy and happy dog particularly of the skin and coat, kidney function and reproductive efficiency. The addition of Omega fatty acids to a dogs diet in the dog food formula or as a supplement, can keep skin pliable and healthy. Fats increase the palatability of food, carry fat-soluble vitamins as well as assist with healthy food storage.

Carbohydrates should make up about 50 percent of a balanced dog food. The source of carbohydrates is important. Maize or corn is a popular choice, as well as soy beans. Other sources are rice and wheat. As long as the source is clean and of high nutritional quality, that means not "floor sweepings".   Some dogs have allergies to one or more of the carbohydrate sources, so if you dog shows bloating or flatulence or itchy skin, change your dog food to another form of carbohydrate as a possible cure.Labelling should indicate the source of carbohydrates.

Minerals are essential for bone formation, muscle metabolism, fluid balance and nervous system function. Minerals are divided into major and trace concentrations. 

Calcium and phosphorus are necessary in a certain ratio for correct bone formation and strength.  An imbalance in this ratio could cause bone disorders.

Potassium is found within tissue cells and is important in cellular activity; a deficiency can cause muscle weakness as well as heart and kidney lesions.

Sodium is found in fluids and performs a function similar to potassium. Excess sodium (salt) however is linked to hypertension in dogs and humans.

Magnesium is found in soft tissue and bone; it works with calcium to provide heart, muscle and nervous tissue function and assists in the metabolism of potassium and sodium.  Deficiency of magnesium leads to muscle weakness and even convulsions.

Trace elements are iron, copper, maganese, zinc, iodine, selenium and cobalt. The requirements of these elements are minimal but are essential for good health.

Iron is critical for red blood cell health.  There is some evidence that feeds high in soy products could interfere with iron absorption.

Copper is required for the production of melanin a color producing pigment. Deficiency can result in bone disorders and anemia. A genetic link to copper toxicosis in Bedlington Terriers can cause hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver.

Zincis a vital element for skin and coat health and synthesizing of proteins. Deficiency can result in anorexia, testicular atrophy and skin lesions.

Ensure that your dogs food contains a balance of these minerals.  Once again read the labels of your pet's food.

Vitamins like minerals are necessary for absorption of fats and carbohydrates. Vitamin E will benefit dogs with dry skin and Vitamin B-complex will assist dogs bothered by fleas or other biting insects even flies.  Vitamins are divided into fat-soluble and water-soluble types.  Water soluble vitamins are B-complex and B 12, and Vitamin C - ascorbic acid. Fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E and K.  Which are critical for many body functions, including bone formation, blood coagulation and eyesight.  Lack of fat soluble vitamins can cause eye problems, corneal ulcerations and rickets. However, an excess of these vitamins can build up and become toxic. Vitamin A can lead to bone disease; too much vitamin D can cause calcification of soft tissue such as lungs and kidney. Once again read the labels a well-balanced scientifically proven balance is essential for correct dog nutrition.

Dog nutrition must contain nutrients in a usable form.  Proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals are no good if they can't be absorbed.  An essential difference between a good quality or a poor quality dog nutrition. Not necessarily the cost, but a responsible dog food manufacturer will have this in balance for the age, size and acitivity level of your dog's nees.  Read the labels! Responsible dog food manufacturers produce a diet balanced with correct dog nutrition in mind. If your dog shows all the signs of a happy and healthy dog there is no need to be concerned.  If you dog, however,shows any signs of intolerance: an itchy dog, or bloating and flatulence then you need to re-consider your dogs' diet.

Dog food supplements are only required and should only be provided on the recommendation of a veterinarian. If you are concerned about your small dog breeds' health then these are a consideration with some expert advise from your local vet. 

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