A bowl of standard commercial kibble seems like a good way to meet the nutritional requirements of most dogs.
Even so, knowing the micronutrients and vitamins, and knowing the mineral requirements that promote health helps you to avoid hidden health hazards.
Vitamins and minerals, though tiny catalysts, play an all-important role in building health and vitality.
Without these micronutrients, even the best high-protein diet will fail to achieve this goal.
Here you will find information on the major micronutrients that affect your dog’s health and how to provide them.
The Role of Fat-Soluble Vitamins
These vitamins, A, D, E, and K, dissolve in fat and are stored in the liver and fatty tissues for future use.
Fat soluble vitamins tend to remain in the body, so achieving balance is critical to avoid the toxic and/or deficient effects of these vitamins.
Vitamin A, in addition to maintaining healthy, strong bones and vision, supports the immune system.
Natural sources of this are found in slightly more than a small serving of carrots or sweet potatoes, or beef liver.
Vitamin D builds concentrated strength in the bones and teeth and works in concert with vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, to maintain flexibility in the skin and coat.
Water Soluble B Complex Vitamins
In contrast to fat soluble vitamins, water soluble vitamins like the B complex, and vitamin C, cannot be stored to a large extent and are excreted in the urine on a daily basis.
Therefore, your dog requires a constant and consistent supply in his rations / diet.
The B-complex group, consisting of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and vitamin B12, plays a pivotal role in the metabolism of energy.
These vitamins help convert foods to cellular energy and support a healthy brain and aid in the development of red blood cells.
Natural sources of B-complex vitamins are organ meats, lean poultry, eggs and brown rice.
A lack of B vitamins quickly results in lethargy and weakness and poor coat condition.
Crucial Minerals for Bone and Cellular Health
Macro minerals and trace minerals are the two types of minerals with macros being required in greater amounts by the body, and minors being required in smaller amounts.
Both minerals are vital in differing amounts for survival.
An example of an important mineral pair is the presence of calcium and phosphorus; calcium along with phosphorus, are capable of building and hardening the structuring of the skeleton and contributing to the signaling of the nerves.
However, the amount of phosphorus compared to calcium must remain balanced; a higher amount of phosphorus to calcium can negatively affect skeletal development.
Magnesium aids muscle relaxation as well as enzyme function, and potassium aids the electrical signaling and heart and nervous systems.
Commercial and balanced diets are usually sufficient sources as are whole food sources of the macronutrients outlined above.
The Hidden Power of Trace Minerals
While it may take small amounts, trace minerals including zinc, iron, copper, and iodine, are essential for the correct functioning of the body's systems.
Deficiency in trace minerals presents itself quickly through poor skin health and fatigue.
Zinc plays a critical role in the formation of the skin's barrier, supports healing of the skin, and aids in mounting an immune response.
Zinc is also beneficial for breeds with sensitive skin.
Iron binds oxygen to red blood cells and prevents anemia allowing energy levels to be maintained during physical activities.
Iodine supports the functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolic rate and the body's weight.
Avoiding Deficiencies and the Dangers of Supplementing
Most high-quality commercial dog foods that meet regulatory standards, include a blend of essential vitamins and minerals.
Adding random vitamin supplements to a balanced diet can lead to a potentially fatal overdose, more so with the fat-soluble vitamins.
Prior to any supplementation of minerals or vitamins to your dog's food, it is best to consult your veterinarian if you are uncertain.
For more tips on diet adjustments, please see our article on The Best Diet Plan for French Bulldogs.
Without trace minerals, correct internal system functioning is not possible.
Achieving balance with trace minerals and vitamins results in a long and healthy life for your best friend.