What nutrients does my dog need?
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What nutrients does my dog need?
Hey there! If you have a dog or are thinking about getting a four-legged friend, sooner or later the question arises: "What nutrients does my dog actually need?" Nutrition plays a central role in your furry companion's health, and it's important to be well-informed. Let's go over the different nutrients your dog needs and why they're so important!
Proteins: The building blocks of life
Proteins are essential for dogs. They help build and repair tissue, are important for muscle development, and play a central role in many biological processes. High-quality protein sources include meat, fish, eggs, and certain plant products such as legumes.
Important to know: Make sure the food contains an adequate amount of protein. Puppies, pregnant or lactating dogs, and active dogs need more protein than older or less active dogs.
Fats: Energy and Vitality
Fats are an excellent source of energy and support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K). Essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 are known for their role in skin health and, according to studies, can have positive effects on inflammatory processes.
High-fat foods: Fish oil, flaxseed oil, and animal fats are great additions to your dog's diet.
Carbohydrates: For the necessary energy
While carbohydrates aren't essential for life, they provide a valuable source of energy. They also aid digestion, as many carbohydrates contain fiber, which supports intestinal health . Easily digestible sources include rice, oatmeal, potatoes, and vegetables. Some dogs are sensitive to certain grains such as corn or barley – an individual feeding plan can be helpful in this case.
Keep in mind: Not all dogs need the same amount of carbohydrates. Active dogs can tolerate more, while less active dogs are better served with a lower-carbohydrate diet.
Vitamins: Little powerhouses
Vitamins are essential for many bodily functions. They support the immune system, skin health, vision, and many other processes. The most important vitamins for dogs are:
- Vitamin A : Important for vision and skin health.
- Vitamin D : Helps with calcium absorption and is important for strong bones.
- B vitamins : Support metabolism and energy production.
A balanced diet usually covers the vitamin needs, but if you cook yourself or feed raw food, you should be careful not to neglect the vitamins.
Minerals:
Minerals are essential for many bodily functions. They help build bones and teeth, regulate fluid balance, and are important for muscle and nerve function. The most important minerals include:
- Calcium : Essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Phosphorus : Works closely with calcium and is important for energy production.
- Sodium and potassium : Regulatory functions in fluid balance and important for nerve function.
Water: The often underestimated resource
Last but not least: water! It's the most important nutrient of all. Your dog should always have access to fresh water, as it's essential for all bodily functions. Adequate hydration supports digestion, kidney function , and overall health.
Proper nutrition is key to your dog's health and well-being. Make sure you choose a high-quality food that contains all the necessary nutrients. If you have any questions or are unsure, it's always a good idea to ask us. We'll help you make the best decisions for your dog's diet.
Amounts for the most important nutrients that dogs need
Please note that these values may vary depending on your dog's age, size, activity level, and specific health needs. The following are general guidelines:
Proteins
- Puppies : 22–32% of daily calories
- Adult dogs : 18–25% of daily calories
- Seniors : 15–20% of daily calories
Fats
- Puppies : 8–15% of daily calories
- Adult dogs : 8–15% of daily calories
- Seniors : 5–10% of daily calories (depending on activity level and health status)
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates aren't essential, but they can make up about 30–70% of your dog's daily calories, depending on their activity level. Stick to potatoes.
Vitamins
The exact amount of vitamins can vary, but here are some general guidelines:
- Vitamin A : 500-1,000 IU per day
- Vitamin D : 200-500 IU per day
- B vitamins : Vary depending on the specific B vitamin (e.g., B1, B2, B6); often in small amounts (e.g., 1–5 mg per day)
Minerals
- Calcium : 0.3–1 g per 1 kg body weight (total 1–2% of the diet)
- Phosphorus : 0.4–1 g per 1 kg body weight
- magnesium
- Puppies : 0.04–0.08 g per kg body weight per day
- Adult dogs : 0.1–0.2 g per kg body weight per day
- Sodium : 0.1–0.3% of daily calories
- Potassium : 0.5–1% of daily calories
Trace elements are essential minerals,
which are needed in very small amounts but play an important role in metabolism and various bodily functions. Here are the common trace elements for dogs with their respective amounts, again only guidelines:
Iron (Fe)
- Recommended amount : 50–100 mg per day
- Function : Important for the formation of hemoglobin and the transport of oxygen in the blood.
Zinc (Zn)
- Recommended amount : 0.5 mg per kilo
- Function : Supports the immune system, skin health and wound healing.
Copper (Cu)
- Recommended amount : 1–2 mg per day
- Function : Important for the formation of red blood cells and connective tissue.
Manganese (Mn)
- Recommended amount : 1–2 mg per day
- Function : Involved in bone formation and the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.
Selenium (Se)
- Recommended amount : 0.1–0.3 mg per day
- Function : Has antioxidant properties and supports the immune system.
Iodine (I)
- Recommended amount : 0.1–0.5 mg per day
- Function : Important for thyroid function and metabolism.
Water
- Dogs should drink approximately 30–50 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. This can vary depending on temperature, activity level, and food (dry vs. wet).
Important instructions
- Individual needs : Exact amounts may vary depending on your dog's age, activity level, and health condition.
- Nutritional sources : A balanced diet including high-quality dog food or a varied home-cooked diet should normally provide sufficient trace elements.
- Age and activity : These values are guidelines only. Puppies and active dogs generally require more nutrients than older or less active dogs.
- Consult a veterinarian : If you have specific health needs or are unsure about anything, it is always advisable to consult a veterinarian.
A balanced diet can contribute to your dog's vitality, zest for life, and overall health!
Legal Notice:
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a visit to your veterinarian. If you have any health concerns or questions about your dog's diet, please contact a qualified veterinarian.
Source: Martina Hemm June 2025