Here's a breakdown:
The Process of Digestion:
1. Ingestion: The dog takes the food into its mouth and chews it. Saliva helps to break down the food and makes it easier to swallow.
2. Digestion in the Stomach: The food travels down the esophagus and into the stomach. Stomach acids and enzymes further break down the food.
3. Digestion in the Small Intestine: The partially digested food moves into the small intestine where enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver help break down fats and proteins. Nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream.
4. Digestion in the Large Intestine: The remaining undigested food moves into the large intestine where water is absorbed and waste is formed.
5. Elimination: The waste products are eliminated as feces through the rectum and anus.
What happens to the nutrients:
* Proteins: Broken down into amino acids, which are used to build and repair tissues.
* Carbohydrates: Broken down into sugars, which are used for energy.
* Fats: Broken down into fatty acids, which are used for energy and insulation.
* Vitamins and Minerals: Absorbed into the bloodstream and used for various bodily functions.
Other things to consider:
* Dog Food: The type of food you feed your dog will influence the nutrients it gets and how well it digests it.
* Water: Drinking plenty of water is essential for digestion and overall health.
* Exercise: Exercise helps to stimulate digestion and keeps your dog healthy.
I hope this answers your question!