In order to satisfy an animal's nutritional needs, the food it eats must provide sufficient amounts of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Most of the nutritional elements can be found in varying amounts in the basic ingredients in commercial pet foods.
The blending of these ingredients is critical. While it is imperative that all pets receive these nutrients, it is also very important that they receive the nutrients in the proper proportions. Too much of any one nutrient can be just as harmful as the absence of a nutrient. It is very important that you assess the ingredients listed on the package of dog food. In order to do this a brief explanations of each nutrient follows. Also, don't forget WATER, even though this is not a nutritional element, it is essential to the good health of your pet.
Proteins
Proteins are large molecules made up of smaller molecules called amino acids, which fall into two main categories: essential and non-essential amino acids. Proteins help build, maintain and repair cells. They contribute to growth, promote the growth of hair and claws, renew cells, and repair tissues after an injury. Animals cannot manufacture sufficient amounts of essential amino acids to replace those that they use during the process of cell replacement, or those that are lost through sweating, salivating and evacuation. Therefore, an animal's food must supply the proper amounts of essential amino acids. Amino acids cannot be stored by the body and must be consumed daily. A word of caution, too little protein can cause deficiencies affecting the coat, skin and muscles, too much protein will overwork the kidneys and the unused amino acids will be eliminated in the form of urca. Too much protein can also cause damage to the bones of a rapidly growing puppy.
Lipids
Lipids contain fatty acids and help maintain a shiny, glossy coat and aid in keeping the skin healthy. During combustion, lipids release more than twice as much energy as proteins or carl)oliydrates. Lipids increase ilic energy of density of the food and also make the food more palatable for your pet. Lipids are an essential part of your pet's diet, they are a concentrated form of energy, they help carry and absorb fat-soluble vitamins and because they accumulate in the adipose tissues, they provide a reserve of energy for your pet. Lipids also supply your pet with the fatty acids that they cannot manufacture. Your pet must consume essential fatty acids every day.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates, once they have been extruded (cooked under pressure) are a very good source of energy, one that is immediately available to your pet. If absorbed in normal quantities they are stored as glycogen. If absorbed in excess it turns into fate and is stored in the adipose tissues. Extrusion is the process used so that animals can readily absorb carbohydrates. The correct temperature is critical, if it is too low, the digestibility of the carbohydrates is reduced, increasing the risk of your pet developing diarrhea, if it is too high, the nutritional value of the nutrients will be destroyed.
Vitamins
Vitamins are organic molecules that are required so that proper functioning of the body can take place. Animals cannot synthesize essential vitamins, therefore, they must obtain them from their food. Vitamins are usually divided in to two categories:
Water-soluble or fat soluble. Vitamins are essential in promoting the growth of your pet and preventing disease. Every vitamin plays a clearly defined role.
Water-soluble Vitamins: Include Vitamin B and C. These two vitamins ensure the proper functioning of the enzymatic reactions. They are also essential for promoting the proper growth and maintenance of tissues and play a key role in numerous metabolic processes. Animals do not store these vitamins in significant quantities, therefore, they must obtain them every day from their food ration. Even if they absorb these vitamins in excessive amounts, they are eliminated.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Includes Vitamins A,D,E, and K. These vitamins are absorbed and transported in the same manner as fat, because of this they can be stored in the body. Vitamin A is essential for bone growth and reproduction, enhances night vision, and contributes to the health of the mucous membranes. Vitamin D is essential for the growth and health of bones and teeth. It regulates the metabolism of minerals in the bones by encouraging the absorption of calcium and phosphorous. Vitamin E is the most powerful natural fat-soluble anti-oxidizing agent. Vitamin E prevents the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatly acids and is responsible for the proper function of the reproductive system. Vitamin K is required for coagulation of the blood.
Vitamin deficiencies can cause any number of health problems, ie: digestive system, nervous system, skin problems, reproductive system. On the other hand an excess can just as easily jeopardize the health of animal, especially the fat-soluble vitamins which can be stored in the tissues of the animal.
Minerals
Minerals are the non-organic substances, usually found in the form of salts. Minerals are divided into two categories. Macrominerals and micromintrals or oligo-clements. Macrominerals are usually found in large quantities in the animals body whereas micromincrals are found in minute quantities. Minerals are essential for muscle tone, contribute to bone formation and regulate the nervous system. They also play an important role in maintaining the intra-and-extra cellular balance. They help maintain the acid-basebalance and ensure the liquid and electrolytic balance. Minerals use proteins as a means of transport, so that the'body can absorb them. Minerals are eliminated in the stool, urine, sweat and bile.
Water
Water is an essential component of body fluids (i.e., lymph and tissue secretions), and it is present in all tissues. Water is required to transport nutrients and cellular wastes. It also acts as a solvent and lubricant. Water helps the animal regulate their body temperature, through respiration and perspiration. Water is also found in all biochemical reactions. Water plays a key role in maintaining liquid balance. Therefore, it is essential that fresh water be available at all times to make up for everyday losses.