Dog Food: A Complete Nutrition Guide

The Foundation of Canine Health

Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of your dog's health, longevity, and quality of life. With countless dog food options available—from commercial kibble to raw diets—choosing the right food can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you understand canine nutritional needs and make informed decisions for your dog's optimal health.

Understanding Canine Nutrition

Unlike cats (obligate carnivores), dogs are omnivores capable of deriving nutrition from both animal and plant sources. However, they still require primarily animal-based protein for optimal health.

Essential Nutrients

Proteins:

• Building blocks for muscles, organs, skin, and coat
• Source of essential amino acids
• Dogs require 22 amino acids (10 essential from diet)
• Quality matters more than quantity

Fats:

• Essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6)
• Energy source (2.25x more energy than protein or carbs)
• Supports skin, coat, immune function, brain development
• Required for absorption of fat-soluble vitamins

Carbohydrates:

• Not essential but provide energy
• Fiber for digestive health
• Whole grains, vegetables, fruits beneficial
• Excess carbs contribute to obesity

Vitamins & Minerals:

• Vitamin A, D, E, K (fat-soluble)
• B-complex vitamins, Vitamin C (water-soluble)
• Calcium, phosphorus (bone health)
• Iron, zinc, copper, selenium (various functions)

Water:

• Most critical nutrient
• 60-70% of adult dog body weight
• Essential for all bodily functions
• Fresh, clean water always available

Types of Dog Food

Commercial Dry Food (Kibble)

Advantages:

• Economical and convenient
• Long shelf life
• Variety of formulations
• May help reduce dental tartar
• Easy portion control

Disadvantages:

• Lower moisture content (10%)
• May contain fillers and by-products
• Higher carbohydrate content
• Quality varies significantly by brand

Wet Food (Canned/Pouches)

Advantages:

• High moisture content (75-80%)
• Highly palatable
• Easier to chew for senior dogs
• Lower carbohydrates
• Good for dogs with dental issues

Disadvantages:

• More expensive per serving
• Shorter shelf life once opened
• Can contribute to tartar buildup
• Portion sizes less intuitive

Semi-Moist Food

Considerations:

• Moderate moisture (25-35%)
• Often contains sugars and preservatives
• Highly palatable but nutritionally inferior
• Not recommended as primary diet

Raw Food Diets (BARF - Biologically Appropriate Raw Food)

Potential Benefits:

• Mimics ancestral diet
• High-quality protein
• Minimal processing
• Shiny coat, healthy skin
• Smaller stools

Significant Risks:

• Bacterial contamination (Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria)
• Nutritional imbalances if not properly formulated
• Risk to immunocompromised family members
• Expensive and time-consuming
• Bone fragments can cause obstruction/perforation

Veterinary Consensus: Most veterinarians advise against raw diets due to health risks without proven benefits over quality commercial foods.

Home-Cooked Diets

Considerations:

• Complete control over ingredients
• Requires veterinary nutritionist consultation
• Must be properly balanced (complex)
• Labor-intensive and expensive
• Risk of nutritional deficiencies if not formulated correctly

Reading Dog Food Labels

Ingredient List

What to Look For:

• Named animal protein first (chicken, beef, salmon, not "meat")
• Whole food ingredients
• Named fats (chicken fat, not "animal fat")
• Recognizable ingredients
• Minimal by-products

Red Flags:

• Generic terms ("meat meal," "animal digest")
• Excessive fillers (corn, wheat, soy as primary ingredients)
• Artificial colors (completely unnecessary)
• BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin (controversial preservatives)
• "Meat and bone meal" (low-quality protein)

Guaranteed Analysis

AAFCO Minimum Requirements (Adult Maintenance):

• Crude Protein: Minimum 18% (dry matter basis)
• Crude Fat: Minimum 5.5% (dry matter basis)
• Higher requirements for growth/reproduction

Better Quality Foods Typically Provide:

• Protein: 25-35%
• Fat: 12-20%
• Named meat sources
• Balanced omega fatty acids

AAFCO Statement

Look for: "[Product] is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for [life stage]."

Better yet: "Animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures substantiate that [Product] provides complete and balanced nutrition for [life stage]."

This indicates actual feeding trials, not just formulation.

Life Stage Nutrition

Puppies (Up to 12-24 Months)

Growth Requirements:

• Higher protein (22-32%)
• Higher fat (8-20%)
• Increased calories for rapid growth
• Proper calcium:phosphorus ratio (1:1 to 1.8:1)
• DHA for brain and eye development
• Small, frequent meals (3-4x daily initially)

Large Breed Puppies:

• Specialized formulas to prevent rapid growth
• Controlled calcium levels
• Prevents developmental orthopedic disease
• Feed large breed puppy food until 18-24 months

Adult Dogs (1-7 Years)

Maintenance Nutrition:

• Balanced protein (18-25%)
• Moderate fat (10-15%)
• Appropriate calories for activity level
• 1-2 meals daily
• Adjust portions based on body condition

Activity Level Adjustments:

• Working dogs: Higher protein and fat
• Sedentary dogs: Lower calories
• Performance dogs: Specialized high-energy diets

Senior Dogs (7+ Years)

Aging Considerations:

• Easily digestible proteins
• Joint support (glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s)
• Antioxidants for cognitive function
• Lower calories if less active
• May benefit from wet food if dental issues
• Possible organ support (kidney, liver)

Senior Food Benefits:

• Lower phosphorus for kidney health
• Higher fiber for digestive regularity
• L-carnitine for metabolism
• Enhanced omega-3 fatty acids

Breed-Specific Considerations

Large/Giant Breeds:

• Joint support crucial
• Controlled growth formulas for puppies
• Weight management important
• May benefit from elevated feeders

Small Breeds:

• Higher metabolism, need more calories per pound
• Smaller kibble size
• May need more frequent meals
• Prone to dental issues

Brachycephalic Breeds (Flat-Faced):

• Special kibble shapes for easier pickup
• May benefit from elevated bowls
• Prone to obesity, need portion control

Medical and Prescription Diets

When Special Diets Are Needed

Food Allergies/Sensitivities:

• Limited ingredient diets
• Novel protein sources (venison, duck, kangaroo)
• Hydrolyzed protein formulas
• Elimination diet trials (8-12 weeks)

Gastrointestinal Issues:

• Highly digestible proteins
• Low fat for pancreatitis
• High fiber for constipation
• Prebiotics and probiotics

Kidney Disease:

• Reduced phosphorus
• High-quality, moderate protein
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Often requires prescription diet

Urinary Health:

• Controlled mineral levels
• Increased moisture
• pH balancing
• Dissolve or prevent stones

Weight Management:

• Reduced calories but increased protein
• High fiber for satiety
• L-carnitine for fat metabolism
• Smaller, more frequent meals

Liver Disease:

• High-quality, moderate protein
• Increased branched-chain amino acids
• Copper restriction
• Vitamin E and zinc supplementation

The Grain-Free Controversy and DCM

FDA Investigation

In 2018, the FDA began investigating potential link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), particularly in breeds not genetically predisposed.

Key Findings:

• Diets high in peas, lentils, potatoes (legumes)
• May interfere with taurine absorption or synthesis
• Not all grain-free diets implicated
• Correlation does not equal causation

Current Recommendations:

• Grain-free not inherently better for most dogs
• Legumes as primary ingredients may be concerning
• Choose foods meeting WSAVA guidelines
• Consult veterinarian for breed-specific advice
• Consider taurine supplementation if feeding grain-free

WSAVA Guidelines for Selecting Pet Food:

1. Employ full-time qualified nutritionist
2. Conduct feeding trials
3. Use quality control measures
4. Provide detailed product information

Common Food Allergens in Dogs

Most Common:

• Beef
• Dairy products
• Chicken
• Wheat
• Egg
• Corn
• Soy

Symptoms:

• Skin itching and infections
• Ear infections (chronic)
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Paw licking and chewing

Diagnosis:

• Elimination diet trial (single protein, 8-12 weeks)
• Gradual reintroduction to identify culprit
• Blood tests not reliable for food allergies

Feeding Practices

Portion Control and Obesity Prevention

Canine Obesity Epidemic:

• 55% of dogs overweight or obese
• Leads to diabetes, arthritis, reduced lifespan
• Measure portions accurately
• Adjust based on body condition, not just weight

Determining Portions:

• Start with feeding guide on packaging
• Adjust based on individual metabolism
• Body condition score more important than weight
• Feel ribs easily but not prominently visible

Calorie Needs (Approximate):

• Sedentary: 30 calories per kg body weight
• Moderate activity: 40 calories per kg
• Very active: 50-60 calories per kg

Feeding Schedules

Puppies:

• 8-12 weeks: 4 meals daily
• 3-6 months: 3 meals daily
• 6-12 months: 2 meals daily

Adult Dogs:

• Typically 2 meals daily (recommended)
• Can do once daily if no health issues
• Maintains stable blood sugar
• Reduces begging behavior
• Prevents bloat in large, deep-chested breeds

Free Feeding:

• Generally not recommended
• Leads to obesity
• Difficult to monitor appetite/health
• Acceptable only for puppies under 6 months

Transitioning Foods

Gradual Transition (7-10 Days):

• Days 1-3: 75% old, 25% new
• Days 4-6: 50% old, 50% new
• Days 7-9: 25% old, 75% new
• Day 10+: 100% new food

Sensitive Stomachs: Extend transition to 2-3 weeks

Multi-Dog Households

Challenges:

• Different nutritional needs
• Food stealing and guarding
• Varying eating speeds

Solutions:

• Separate feeding areas
• Supervise meal times
• Use crates for peaceful eating
• Puzzle feeders for fast eaters

Treats and Supplements

Treat Guidelines:

• Maximum 10% of daily calories
• Use for training and bonding
• Choose nutritious options (freeze-dried meat, vegetables)
• Avoid high-fat, high-sugar treats
• Never feed toxic foods (chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol)

Supplements:

• Most complete foods don't require supplementation
• Possible exceptions:
  • Joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin)
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil)
  • Probiotics for digestive health
  • Multivitamins for homemade diets
• Always consult veterinarian before supplementing

European and Danish Regulations

EU Pet Food Standards

• FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry Federation) guidelines
• Strict safety and quality standards
• Mandatory nutritional adequacy
• Traceability requirements
• Banned substances list

Quality in Denmark

• High standards for pet food
• Excellent selection of premium brands
• Veterinary prescription diets widely available
• Local and European brands meet strict EU regulations

Copenhagen Dog Owner Considerations

• Excellent access to quality dog food
• Many specialty pet stores
• Veterinary clinics with prescription options
• Home delivery services available
• Urban dog obesity a concern (adjust portions for less active city dogs)
• Danish brands often use locally-sourced ingredients

Signs of Good Nutrition

Healthy Dog Indicators:

• Shiny, healthy coat
• Clear, bright eyes
• Healthy skin without excessive itching
• Good muscle tone, appropriate weight
• Normal energy levels
• Good appetite
• Well-formed stools
• Strong immune system (few illnesses)

When to Consult Your Veterinarian

Nutritional Concerns:

• Unexplained weight changes
• Chronic digestive issues
• Suspected food allergies
• Dull coat or skin problems
• Choosing diet for medical condition
• Considering diet change
• Puppy or senior nutrition questions

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog food requires understanding your dog's individual needs, life stage, activity level, and any health conditions. While the variety of options can be overwhelming, focusing on quality ingredients, appropriate life stage formulas, and AAFCO-approved foods will serve most dogs well.

Key Takeaways:

• Dogs are omnivores but thrive on animal-based protein
• Choose AAFCO-approved foods appropriate for life stage
• Read ingredients: named proteins, whole foods, minimal fillers
• Beware grain-free foods heavy in legumes (DCM concerns)
• Maintain healthy weight through portion control
• Gradual food transitions prevent digestive upset
• Consult veterinarian for medical or prescription diets

Remember, the "best" food is one that keeps your dog healthy, maintains ideal body condition, provides adequate energy, and that your dog enjoys eating.

Need help choosing the best food for your dog? Contact MyPeterinarian in Copenhagen for personalized canine nutrition consultation. Our experienced veterinary team can assess your dog's specific needs, recommend appropriate diets for any health conditions, and create a feeding plan for optimal health and longevity. Schedule your nutrition consultation today!