Some people eat all kinds of food, some are picky on foods' smell, some even choose how their food presentation would be and some just prefer to do something than eating. These behaviors are much the same as puppies/dogs. The only difference is that dogs can't eat all kind of food. Dogs diet has to be balance.
As their best friend and love of their life, we have to ensure that the body receives the right amount of nutrients. Veterinatians are often cautious abut endorsing home-cooked meals because they suspect the average recipe may be missing many of the vitamins and minerals necessary for good health. While there are some vitamins and minerals that need to be supplemented, some are actually manufactured within your dog's body and others can be met through modest servings for fresh foods.
Protein
While the category of proteins earns most of the attention when talking about dog food, it's the amino acids that make up proteins that are trilly impontant. In digestive system, acids and enzymes breal the proteins consumed down into amino acids, which are then utilized by the body to create cells, muscles, hormones, antibodies, blood and even other amino acids. Of the 22 amino acids that a dog's body needs, 12 can be synthesized from other amino acids in the diet. The remaining 10 are called essential amino acids and need to be supplied in sufficient quantities for the body's functions. Protein sources are measured for how readily they are absorbed and utilized on a scale of biological value.
These are the percentage(%) of proteins contain in certain food:
- Egg = 94%
- Fish = 76%
- Beef = 74%
- Grains = 60%
The higher the quality if a protein source, the less protein needs to be consumed. When it comes to energy, the body's preferred source is fat and carbohydrates. When excess protein is consumed, some of the amino acids can be stored, although not to the extent of fat and carbohydrates. Too much protein puts additional stress on the kidneys, so dogs fighting illnesses should follow their veterinarian's recommendation for protein content.
The recommendation for average adult dog is 18% protein, whereas growing puppies, working dogs and lactting female dogs require 28%.
The essential amino acids all take part in the aforementioned bodily functions, but some have special purposes:
Arginine - plays a role in cell replication and growth, so growing animals need more.
Histidine - plays a role in transporting oxygen through the blood.
Isoleucine - only known function is in the creation of proteins.
Leucine - assist in the synthesis of proteins and in preventing muscle from degrading.
Lysine - diets heavier in grains have lower concentrations.
Methionine - necessary for replication of DNA and RNA and for the synthesis of cystine.
Phenylalanine - contributes to the color of black hair.
Threonine - supports healthy skin, healing of wounds and the immune system.
Tryptophan - believed to have an effect of the neurotransmitters that reduce aggression.
Valine - active in the transportation of fats and the creation of milk.
The daily recommended amount of protein and the essential amino acids for a 40-pound/18kg dog can be met by 0.33-pound/0.15kg of chicken breast, which prvides only 15% of the dog's necessary calories per day, leaving plenty of room for adding the right fats, vegetables and even some grains in the diet.
Another amino acid, taurine, is synthesized by dogs using the methinine and cystine in the diet. Although there is not an established requirement for dogs, breeds that are predisposed to heart conditions, as well as Newfoundlands and cocker spaniels, can benefit from supplementation either by pwdered formulations or through the inclusion of fish in the diet.
