Why you should pay attention to the nutrients in the food
Every nutrient fulfills a specific function in your dog's body. A balanced ratio ensures energy, mobility, and a strong immune system. A deficiency or excess of one nutrient can lead to deficiencies or health problems in the long run.
In this blog, we have compiled an overview of all the essential nutrients for a balanced dog diet.
Proteins
Proteins are essential for muscle building, cell regeneration, and a strong immune system. High-quality protein sources don't necessarily have to be of animal origin: Plant-based proteins also provide all the essential amino acids your four-legged friend needs.
These include, for example, plant-based protein sources from
- soy
- Peas
- lenses
- or potato
It is important that the protein profile is complete and therefore contains all essential amino acids.
carbohydrates
Dogs are not strictly carnivores; through domestication by humans, they have evolved from carnivorous wolves into omnivores. This means they are also excellent at utilizing plant nutrients.
Easily digestible carbohydrates such as rice, oats or sweet potato provide energy, fiber and ensure healthy digestion.
Fats
Fats are concentrated energy sources and essential for a shiny coat, healthy skin, and hormonal balance. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are particularly important, as they inhibit inflammation and support the heart and joints. These fatty acids can be obtained from plant sources such as linseed oil, algae oil, sunflower oil, or safflower oil and are used, for example, as an alternative to fish oil.
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals control a whole range of processes in the dog's body:
- Vitamin A is important for skin, eyes and mucous membranes.
- Vitamin D and calcium ensure strong bones and teeth.
- Vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress and strengthens the immune system.
- Vitamin K is essential for normal blood clotting and bone health.
- Phosphorus ensures strong bones and a balanced energy level.
- Magnesium supports normal muscle and nerve function.
- Potassium regulates fluid balance and also supports muscles and nerves.
- Sodium chloride ensures electrolyte balance and the regulation of water balance.
- Chlorine supports digestion and regulates the pH level of stomach acid.
- Sulfur supports coat, skin and joints as a component of important amino acids.
- Zinc and biotin promote skin, coat health and regeneration.
- Taurine is important for heart function and vision.
- L-Carnitine supports muscle metabolism, energy supply and heart health
Many nutrients traditionally derived from meat can now be completely replaced by high-quality plant-based or synthetic equivalents, so your dog doesn't have to go without anything. Even in meat-based foods, vitamins and minerals are often added synthetically.
Often forgotten, but essential: water
Nothing works without water. It regulates body temperature, transports nutrients, and supports digestion and metabolism. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water – especially during exercise or in hot weather. Wet food products generally have a higher water content. If you feed your dog exclusively dry food, you should pay particular attention to ensuring they drink enough fluids.
A rule of thumb to remember: You can expect to drink between 20ml and 100ml of water per kilogram of body weight.
Vutter! meets all the requirements for a complete feed according to FEDIAF.
We at Vutter! shed light on the nutrient jungle of your dog's food: Both our wet and dry food cover your dog's complete nutritional needs. Regular analyses by the independent SGS INSTITUTE FRESENIUS verify the quality of Vutter! and ensure that it meets the FEDIAF standards for complete feeds. These FEDIAF guidelines contain minimum and maximum limits for trace elements, minerals, vitamins, and many other essential nutrients.
