Fat in the diet of dogs: is it good or bad?
We look at the role of this macronutrient in the canine diet.
CAN DOGS EAT FAT?
Tiempo de lectura aproximada: 7 minutos
As more and more dog food choices emerge, pet owners may have more questions. One of the nutrients that creates the most uncertainty for some people is fat. Despite its bad reputation, fats or lipids are the main source of energy in a dog's diet. In fact, they provide twice as much energy as protein and carbohydrates. In adequate amounts, fats are not only healthy for dogs, but are also necessary for the proper functioning of their bodies. Contrary to what many people believe based on the effects of fats on human metabolism, fats do not affect dogs in the same way, so it is not common for them to cause cholesterol and cardiovascular problems. In fact, as carnivorous animals in nature, dogs have a digestive system capable of digesting and processing the fats in meat without any problems.
Table of contents
1. Why do dogs need to include fat in their diet?
2. Benefits of unsaturated fats in the canine diet
3. How much fat does my dog need?
4. What happens if my dog doesn't get enough fat in their diet?
Why do dogs need fat in their diet?
As well as being the main source of energy for dogs, fats are good for many aspects of their health, provided they are given in adequate doses. Some essential vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E and K, are fat-soluble, which means they need fat to be absorbed by the body. On the other hand, the right balance of fat in the diet will keep your pet's skin and coat hydrated and healthy. But before we go any further, we need to distinguish between three types of fats:
Saturated fats: these are usually of animal origin, such as butter or pork fat, for example. They solidify at room temperature, and although they do not accumulate in the arteries in the same way as they do in humans, it is advisable to limit their consumption.
Unsaturated fats: these can be monounsaturated or polyunsaturated and usually come from vegetables, such as olive oil, but also from fish, such as salmon oil. Unsaturated fats have been shown to be highly beneficial to the dog's body.
Trans fats: Trans fats are often found in poor quality commercial feed due to certain industrial processes. Experts recommend reducing them to a minimum, prioritising unsaturated fats in the canine diet.
Benefits of unsaturated fats in the canine diet
Unsaturated fats are an essential nutrient for dogs. One of the best known are the essential fatty acids, which are not naturally synthesised by these animals and therefore need to be provided through the diet. Some popular fatty acids are omega-3, especially DHA, which is very important for brain and retinal development in dogs, and omega-6, such as linoleic acid, which protects the skin barrier and keeps the skin and coat of these animals in good condition. Here are some of the benefits of including foods rich in unsaturated fats in your pet's diet:
Protects the cardiovascular system.
Balances metabolism and prevents and treats diabetes.
They reduce inflammation in the body.
They care for the skin and coat, preventing flaking and allergies.
They are involved in the proper functioning of organs such as the brain and kidneys.
They improve digestion, combating gastrointestinal problems such as constipation.
They add flavour and a more pleasant texture to your dog's food, improving its organoleptic experience.
How much fat does my dog need?
Whether you feed your dog a ready-made meal or a natural BARF diet at home, it is important to know that the recommended amount of fat varies from dog to dog. Age, exercise and other health conditions all play a role in the percentage of fat that should be in the diet. For this reason, we advise you to consult your veterinary nutritionist regarding the amount of fat and other nutrients in the diet. This step is very important, as too much fat can cause the dog to be overweight and promote diseases such as pancreatitis.
What if my dog does not get enough fat in their diet?
Some people think that by feeding fatty foods to their dogs they are encouraging weight gain. Of course, it is important to calculate the calorie intake of each pet's diet carefully, adjusting it according to their needs and energy expenditure. However, skimping on fat in your dog's diet can lead to serious health problems, such as skin disorders, dull and coarse coat and muscle weakness. In puppies, a deficiency of unsaturated fats can lead to impaired growth and cognitive development.
So, are fats good or bad for dogs? The answer is that lipids, in appropriate doses, are beneficial and necessary for dogs. Experts recommend prioritising unsaturated fats, such as fish oils, olive oil or seed oil. As for saturated fatty acids, such as fat from meat, dogs can metabolise them without any problems, and it is very rare that they can produce cholesterol and affect their cardiovascular system. If you want your pet to enjoy a soft, shiny coat, healthy, allergy-free skin and a well-functioning body, you must include sources of healthy fats in your pet's diet. Say yes to fats in your best friend's diet!