Nutrients in adequate proportion and at the right age help keep dogs healthy hence when choosing the right diet for your dog; it is crucial to consider age-appropriate nutrition. Over the years, one of the most significant breakthroughs in the world of veterinary science is the recognition of different nutritional needs that dogs have as they grow older. When you have many factors that play in determining dog food, it gets confusing and, at times, frustrating. Fear not! – here’s our guide to nutrients required at different life stages in a dog’s life.
Before you learn more about age-appropriate nutrition, you might find it interesting to know the function of each nutrient –
Dietary Fiber: Fiber is found in substances like cellulose, pectin, and lignin. They are sourced from plant-based materials like root vegetables, wholemeal cereals, and fruits—dietary fiber help to support a puppy’s digestive system and prevent gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea and constipation.
Fats: Fats act as a source of energy in a balanced diet. They add to palatability and texture to puppy food. Besides providing necessary energy, fats deliver fatty acids crucial to body functions. They also add to improving coat quality and support a healthy nervous system.
Protein: Protein helps in forming, developing, and renewing tissues, muscles, and skeletons. Essential amino acids cannot be made by a puppy’s body and must be obtained from food, and non-essential amino acids are derived from essential amino acids – both are equally important.
Minerals: Macro-minerals like calcium, phosphorous, and potassium are essential for key body functions like healthy bone development, a strong nervous system, and muscle metabolism. Micro minerals like Manganese, Copper, and iron are required to maintain healthy skin, blood, and coat.
Vitamins: Vitamins help in fat metabolism, blood clotting, immune function, brain and liver There are two types of vitamins – water-soluble and fat-soluble.
Puppy Diet
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