The importance of balanced diets administration and vitamin-mineral supplements in puppies and adult dogs

Abstract

Balanced is a term that may be applied to a diet, ration, or feed having all the required nutrients in proper amount and proportion based upon recommendations of recognized authorities in the field of animal nutrition, such as the NRC, for a given set of physiological requirements. Growth is one period where concerns are frequently reported, as this is one of themost nutritionally demanding life stages, and deficiencies and excesses are manifested quite rapidly. Minerals and vitamins are part of the diet, providing the energy for growth and activity. Individual variation, increased growth rate and/or level of activity may lead to exceeding the daily requirements of minerals and vitamins and thus to disturbance of skeletal growth as a cause of frequently diagnosed orthopedic diseases. Growth rates of young dogs are affected by the nutrient density of the food and the amount of food fed. It is important that puppies be fed to grow at an optimal rate for bone development and body condition rather than at a maximal rate. This study includes 8 dogs all different breeds. The study covers the correction of bone deformities when dogs are given a balanced diet along with vitamin mineral supplements. To obtain the proper information, correct diagnosis and a treatment plan a clinical exam was given to each dog. Radiology reports/images were obtained, as well as blood tests. Once results were collected it is clear supermarket puppy food that does not contain minimum 1.2 - 1.8% CA and 0.8 -1.6% P can lead to bone deformities such as "rickets". Premium dog food and vitamin supplements should be given to small to medium breeds four months to one year old, and larger breeds one and a half to two years old.