Ever wondered what fuels your dog’s boundless energy, shiny coat, and happy tail wags? It all comes down to the right nutrients in their diet. Let’s break it down:
1. Water: The Top Dog of Nutrients
Water is your pup’s most important nutrient – it’s vital for every cell in their body to function properly. Make sure they always have fresh, clean water on hand – it’s as essential as belly rubs and playing catch!
2. Macronutrients: The Big Three
These are the building blocks of your dog’s diet and come in larger portions to keep them strong and healthy:
- Protein: Think of protein as the ultimate multitasker. It helps build and repair muscles, supports healthy tissues, and even plays a role in making enzymes, hormones, and antibodies.
- Fat: Fats aren’t just about energy (though they do provide the most concentrated form, nearly double that of protein and carbs). They also support cell health, vitamin absorption (like A, D, and E), and provide those must-have fatty acids for shiny coats and happy tails.
- Carbohydrates: While carbs often get a bad rap, they’re an excellent energy source for your pup, especially the complex ones like dietary fibre that help digestion stay on track.
3. Micronutrients: The Small but Mighty Crew
These are the vitamins and minerals your dog needs in smaller amounts – but don’t let their size fool you! They’re critical for their overall health:
- Vitamins: From vitamin A (great for eyes and immunity) to B vitamins (energy and nerve support) and beyond, these little guys do a lot of heavy lifting.
- Minerals: Macro minerals like calcium and phosphorous are essential for strong bones, while micro minerals like selenium and zinc help with everything from immunity to a healthy coat.
Why It Matters
Every nutrient plays a role in keeping your dog happy, healthy, and ready to tackle their next adventure. My Raw Pet menus carefully balance protein and veges for every meal, so you can feel confident your dog is getting everything they need – no guesswork required.