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Mar
05
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DOG FOODS, PART 2 |
DOG FOODS, PART 2
Vitamins
Vitamins are divided into two groupswater soluble and fat soluble. Different vitamins have different functions: vitamin A protects skin and promotes bone growth; vitamin B aids in metabolism; vitamin D aids in bone growth and increases calcium absorption; and vitamin K helps with blood clotting. Good sources of vitamins are fruit, vegetables, cereals, and the liver of most animals.
Minerals
Minerals provide strength to bone and ensure proper bone formation, maintain fluid balance and normal muscle and nerve function, transport oxygen to the blood, and produce hormones. Examples of minerals are calcium, phosphorus, copper, iron, magnesium, selenium, potassium, zinc, and sodium.
Water
The most important of all nutrients, water makes up over 60 percent of a dog. Water intake can come directly through drinking or can be released when food is oxidized. If your dog’s diet is lacking in water, dehydration can occur, which can lead to serious breakdown of organs or even death. All dogs must retain a water balance, which means that their total intake of water should be in balance with the total output. Make sure that your dog has access to cool, clean water at all times.
