What Is a Balanced Diet for Dogs?

Dogs are individuals, just like people, and a diet that works for one dog may not work for another. This is due to many factors that include age, health, activity level and environment. Some dogs require more calories than others. However, the basic requirements of nutrition--protein, carbohydrates, fats and water--are the same for all dogs. Understanding these basics takes the mystery out of feeding your dog.

  1. Proteins

    • Proteins help promote healthy muscles, skin and blood. Proteins consist of a combination of amino acids and enzymes. Dogs consume two types of protein, animal and plant. Dogs digest animal protein the best. Examples of animal protein include beef, poultry and fish. How well a dog digests proteins depends on the quality and type. Dogs suffering from a lack of protein may exhibit skin problems, ear infections or excessive shedding. PetEducation.com recommends the following percentages of protein for dogs based on total diet: puppies need 28 percent, adult dogs require 18 percent, performance dogs need 25 percent, sled dogs require 25 percent and lactating dogs require 28 percent protein.

    Carbohydrates

    • Fundamental to your dog's well-being are carbohydrates that help regulate blood-sugar levels for daily energy needs. In addition, carbohydrates contain fiber, important for digestive functions and stool formation. Sugars and starches are the primary forms of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates also supply essential vitamins and minerals. Grains, peas, beans, potatoes and fruits are examples of carbohydrates. Excessive amounts of carbohydrates may cause your dog to experience bloating, gas or diarrhea. Carbohydrates constitute 30 to 70 percent of most commercial pet foods, according to PetEducation.com.

    Fats

    • Fats assist in the regulation of cholesterol and hormonal functions and act as transport for fat-soluble vitamins. There are three types of fatty acids: omega-3, omega-6 and arachidonic acid. Sources of fats include fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, safflower, sunflower and corn. A dog with a fat deficiency may experience a lack of energy, wounds slow to heal or dry skin. Similar to humans, fats consumed in excess may cause obesity. According to Liz Palika, dog trainer, pet expert and award-winning author of the "The Ultimate Pet Food Guide," between 15 to 18 percent of a dog's caloric intake should be fats. Active canines, such as police, agility or herding dogs, may require as much as 50 percent.

    Water

    • Essential to all life is water, and dogs are no exception. Water helps keep your dog hydrated, assists in temperature regulation and respiration, supports metabolism maintenance and waste removal, and aids in digestion. Lack of water leads to dehydration, which may incapacitate performance and, in severe cases, cause death. There is no exact formula for how much water a dog requires because of variances dues to sizes and weights. Always have clean drinking water available for your dog. Provide extra water for dogs that participate in sports, work, travel or whenever your dog appears thirsty.

    A Word on Calories

    • Calories refer to how food energy is measured and burned by your dog's activity. Consider all factors when determining caloric intake for your dog's diet, including stage of life, size and weight. Big dogs need more calories than a small ones. An older dog needs fewer calories because of decreased activity. An outdoor dog requires more calories than an indoor dog, due to diverse weather conditions. For example, a 50-pound dog of average activity will require 1,200 to 1,400 calories each day. Consult with your veterinarian for tips on how to best optimize your dog's diet.