When choosing dog food for your pet dog, make sure you read the list of ingredients and make sure that the food you plan to give your dog has the necessary nutrients he needs to thrive. Keep in mind that buying the cheapest or the first dog food you see on the shelf may cause your pet to become malnourished. Rather, feed him good food full of nutrients for a high quality life.

Fat Content

Dogs need fat since it is the main source of energy for him.  It also is needed for healthy eyes, skin, brain and coat.  Some healthy fats are lamb fat, chicken fat, herring and sunflower oil.

Carbohydrates

Dogs also need carbohydrates because it is also a major source of energy in his body.  It is this energy that fuels their muscles and brain.  Usually commercial dog food contains as much as thirty to sixty per cent carbohydrates there is a needed minimum proportion needed for the commercial dog food extrusion process.  Grains cannot be digested as easily by dogs.  They must be simmered or cooked well for better digestion.  Some good carbohydrates are whole grain bread, barley, potatoes rice and corn.

Vitamins

Dogs need an external source for vitamins and minerals except vitamin C, since dogs cannot make their own vitamins except this.  Your dog need magnesium, calcium and iron which are readily found in fish, bread, milk, fruits and vegetables and grains.  Even if your dog's commercial dog food claims to be complete in its vitamins and minerals, it may be cancelled out by the heating process in making this commercial food.  It is best to consult with a holistic veterinarian for advice on whether to supplement your dog's diet with vitamins and minerals.

Fatty Acids

They also need fatty acids which are divided into essential and non-essential fatty acids.  Non-essential fatty acid are synthesized inside the dog's body that meet his own requirements.  There is only one essential fatty acid is needed by dogs and it is linoleic acid.  Linoleic acid clots blood after a wound, help them reproduce normally and regulates the bloods' flow to the different organs and tissues in his body, maintain his skin and coat and boosts his immune system.  Non-essential fatty acid is synthesized inside the dog's body that meet his own requirements.

Mark Perissinotto has been a practicing veterinarian for over 20 years, 14 years of which he was the owner and principal of a busy multi-vet mixed animal hospital. One of the two co-founders of Vet Shop Australia, graduated from the University of Queensland with Bachelor of Veterinary Science and one of the best retailer of pet supplies Australia.