Puppies are small animals, so they require food that will give them plenty of energy in their stomachs. A higher protein content is also essential for their growth.
When your puppy is nearing their first birthday, it is important to transition them from puppy food to adult dog food. This should be a gradual process so consulting with your vet before making this change is recommended.
Contents
Protein
Protein is an essential nutrient for your dog that promotes muscle growth, repair and maintenance. It also aids nerve and cell function while aiding in the maintenance of a healthy coat and skin.
According to AAFCO nutritional guidelines, adult dog food should contain at least 18% crude protein on a dry matter basis. Puppies require even more protein for rapid muscle development and overall growth.
Protein sources for dogs include meats, fish and poultry – often the main ingredients in dog food formulas. Grains and oilseeds also provide plenty of protein.
Fat
Fats are the lipids in food; they provide energy, produce essential fatty acids and transport fat-soluble vitamins through digestion. Not only that, but fats also aid skin and coat health as well as organ protection and hormone regulation in dogs.
Generally, fat comes in two varieties: saturated and unsaturated. Saturated fats come from animal sources like meat or poultry, while unsaturated fats originate from plant sources like canola oil, corn oil or sunflower oil.
Both fat types are essential for a dog’s wellbeing. However, according to their age, activity level and gender, they should receive the precise amount of saturated and unsaturated fats required.
Fiber
Fiber is an essential element in your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. It aids digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and even aids weight management.
Aside from providing your pup with high-fiber dog foods, there are also natural sources you can incorporate into their meals. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans.
One popular option for pumpkin is canned pumpkin, which can be found year-round in most grocery stores. When selecting canned pumpkin, only use plain canned pumpkin and avoid products with added sugars or salt.
Minerals
Minerals are essential nutrients your dog’s body requires to stay healthy. They come in two forms: macrominerals, which they require in large amounts, and microminerals, which they require only trace amounts of.
Macro minerals like calcium and phosphorus are essential for bone formation, nerve impulse transmission, blood coagulation and muscle contraction. A lack of either mineral can lead to skeletal deformities as well as weakness.
Sodium and chloride are essential minerals for your dog’s fluid balance, muscle (including cardiac function) and nervous system health. A lack of these minerals may result in dehydration, hair loss, fatigue and a lack of energy.
Vitamins
Vitamins are vital nutrients your dog’s body requires to stay healthy. They aid in the creation of DNA, support muscle and bone health, activate blood clotting, as well as maintain normal eye and neurologic function.
Vitamins are essential for energy production and cognitive function in dogs. Without enough of these vital vitamins, your pup could struggle with low energy levels, leaving him more susceptible to infections and other health problems.
Vitamin D helps your dog’s body regulate calcium and phosphorus levels to keep bones and muscles strong. It’s found in various foods such as fatty fish, marine fish oil, egg yolks, beef liver and more.
