The core nutritional components of dog food

1、 Protein: The Foundation of Life Activities
Function and Function
Composed of physiological structures such as muscles, skin, hair, antibodies, enzymes, and hormones, it supports immune regulation, tissue repair, and energy metabolism.
Essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine need to be ingested through food, and the bioavailability of animal protein (chicken, fish, beef) is over 85%, far exceeding that of plant protein.
Puppies, pregnant/lactating female dogs require at least 22% crude protein, and adult dogs require at least 18% (AAFCO standard).
Excessive risk
Long term excessive intake may increase the burden on the liver and kidneys. It is necessary to choose dog food that clearly indicates the source of animal protein (such as "boneless chicken") and avoid vague statements (such as "meat by-products").
2、 Fat: Efficient Energy and Health Barrier
Function and Function
Provides energy (9 calories per gram, 2.25 times that of carbohydrates), maintains the skin barrier, and promotes the absorption of fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
Essential fatty acids (such as omega-3, omega-6) improve hair gloss, support brain development and immune function.
Adult dogs require 5% -15% fat (based on dry matter), while puppies/nursing mothers can increase it to 18% (NRC standard).
Excessive risk
Fat accounting for more than 30% is prone to obesity, increasing the risk of pancreatitis and diabetes.
Poor quality fats and oils (such as repeatedly heated animal oils) may oxidize and become rancid, damaging the liver and immune system.
3、 Carbohydrates: Energy Pillars and Digestive Regulation
Function and Function
Provide primary energy (accounting for 55% -65% of the adult dog's diet) to support physiological activities such as heartbeats and gastrointestinal peristalsis.
Moderate fiber (such as sweet potatoes and peas) promotes intestinal peristalsis, prevents constipation, and controls weight (increases satiety and reduces total calorie intake).
Fermentation of soluble fibers produces fatty acids, which inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria; Insoluble fibers regulate intestinal transport time.
Excessive risk
More than 10% crude fiber may reduce nutrient absorption, leading to weight loss and decreased hair quality.
It is necessary to choose fibers from natural vegetable and fruit sources and avoid inferior fillers (such as corn stover).
4、 Minerals: the cornerstone of bones and metabolism
Key minerals
Calcium and phosphorus: maintain bone and tooth health, with a ratio of 1:1 to 1.2:1. Imbalance may lead to rickets or kidney damage.
Magnesium, potassium, and iron: participate in nerve conduction, muscle contraction, and oxygen transport.
Puppies need to be supplemented with extra calcium and phosphorus, while elderly dogs need to control their sodium intake to protect their kidneys.
Lack of risk
Insufficient calcium and phosphorus can lead to skeletal deformities, while excessive amounts may cause stones or metabolic disorders.
Full coverage should be ensured through premix materials such as zinc sulfate and potassium iodide to avoid reliance on natural raw materials.
5、 Vitamins: trace but essential
Fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)
Stored in adipose tissue, supporting vision, bone development, and antioxidant function.
Lack of vitamin D affects calcium absorption, while excessive intake can lead to poisoning.
Water soluble vitamins (B group C）
It is excreted through urine and needs to be replenished daily.
B-complex vitamins (such as niacin and pantothenic acid) promote energy metabolism, and dogs do not require additional supplementation of vitamin C.
risk point
Vitamins are easily damaged by sunlight and heat, and stable compounds such as vitamin E acetate should be selected for addition.
Homemade diets are prone to lacking micronutrients, while commercial grains have more advantages.
6、 Moisture: invisible but crucial
Function and Function
Dry food typically has a moisture content of less than 10%, while wet food can reach up to 75%, making it suitable for dogs with insufficient drinking water.
Long term low water diet increases the risk of urinary system diseases, and it is necessary to encourage drinking water or pairing with wet food.
risk point
Dry food needs to ensure clean drinking water supply and avoid dehydration.
7、 Special Ingredients: Functional and Safety
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate
Assist in preventing degenerative joint diseases, but not an essential component.
additive
Legitimate preservatives (such as mixed tocopherols) can prevent fat oxidation, while synthetic preservatives such as BHA/BHT should be carefully selected.
Food attractants (such as yeast extracts) enhance palatability, but should not mask defects in low-quality raw materials.
8、 Nutritional balance and safety
selection criteria
Prioritize products that have been validated for nutritional integrity through "feeding trials" rather than just meeting the "formula compliance" standard.
Check if the first three digits of the ingredient list indicate a clear source of animal protein to avoid vague statements.
Pay attention to the metabolic energy (ME) value and develop personalized feeding plans based on the dog's weight and activity level.
risk aversion
Avoid long-term use of high-fat and high-energy foods, and regularly monitor body weight and blood indicators.
Older dogs or dogs with special health conditions need to adjust their nutritional ratios under the guidance of a veterinarian.