Nutrients & Balance

Every dog needs water, protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Protein supplies amino acids for muscles, skin and the immune system. Fat provides concentrated energy and essential fatty acids for a healthy coat. Carbohydrates add energy and fibre for good digestion. Vitamins and minerals run thousands of small jobs, from bone building to nerve signals. Water is the most vital of all.

In the UK, a food labelled “complete” is designed to provide everything a dog needs on its own. A “complementary” food, such as many treats, toppers and mixers, isn’t enough by itself and must be fed alongside a complete diet. Checking that word on the label is one of the quickest ways to know whether a food can be the main meal.

It isn’t enough to include the right ingredients; they need to be in the right proportions. Calcium and phosphorus are a classic example. Meat is rich in phosphorus but low in calcium, so an all-meat diet can quietly weaken bones over time. Puppies are especially sensitive, as too much or too little calcium can affect growth. That’s why professional formulation matters.

A growing puppy, a busy working dog, a pregnant bitch and a snoozy senior all have different needs. Puppies need more energy and carefully controlled minerals, while older or neutered dogs may need fewer calories. Choose a food made for your dog’s life stage and adjust amounts to their activity. Your vet can help you fine-tune things as your dog changes.

Scales tell you weight, but body condition tells you whether that weight is healthy. At a good condition you can feel the ribs easily under a thin layer of fat, see a waist from above and spot a tummy tuck from the side. If you can’t feel ribs, your dog may be carrying extra weight; if ribs, spine and hips stand out, they may be too thin.