The Importance of Proper Dog Nutrition.
Proper nutrition is just as important for dogs as for humans. Dogs need certain amounts of nutrients to avoid obesity and maintain their health. A proper nutrition means a balanced diet, which consists in daily energy, protein, vitamins and minerals. However, the amount and proportion of these items varies from race to race, from age to age and from one lifestyle to another.
Any dog owner can opt for various types of dog food available in pet shops, or prepare homemade food, but there is always the risk that neither of these options will provide all the nutrients that the animal needs. This is why a dog`s diet should be discussed with a veterinarian, who will provide all the necessary information and make the best recommendations for food, based on a dog`s metabolism and other particularities. The veterinarian will also prescribe vitamins and supplements, whenever they are necessary.
Dogs should not be allowed to eat as much as they want, because they may become obese. Dog owners should make the effort to rationalize the dog food, besides ensuring that the diet is healthy and correctly balanced.
How do you know if your dog needs Vitamins and Supplements?
Your dog is diagnosed with a vitamins or minerals deficiency. If this is the case, your veterinarian will recommend the best options.
Your dog is diagnosed with a disease that can be treated with vitamins and supplements. For example, a dog with dermatosis may respond well to zinc, and the symptoms of osteoarthritis can be eased with vitamin E. Again, you should consult with your veterinarian, to receive the best advice. Only use supplements and vitamins prescribed by a doctor and always keep in mind that what is good for humans may not be good for dogs.
Your dog refuses to eat certain types of foods or suffer from loss of appetite. It could be a number of reasons for this: a health condition, behavioral problems, old age etc. Either way, you can help prevent some of the health issues that may arise, by completing your dog`s diet with vitamins and supplements prescribed by your vet.
The Benefits of Vitamins and Minerals for Dogs.
Correcting deficiencies in nutrition. Also, if your dog has a sensitive digestion, using vitamins will usually strengthen the entire digestive system
They are essential for bones, in the process of growth and mineralization
Contributing to treat bone fractures and strengthen the entire system
The most important vitamins for dogs are Biotin, Folic acid, Vitamin A, Vitamins B1, B2, B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin K etc. Besides the vitamins, dogs need essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and sulfur. Calcium and phosphorus work together to strengthen bones. Magnesium helps cell formation and the metabolism. Sulfur helps the body synthesizing proteins and also protects joints.
Other important minerals that your dog needs include iron, zinc, copper, cobalt, selenium, manganese and iodine.
