1. Dog Health

2. Dogs are carnivores...  But they can eat some plants  Nutritional health depends on receiving proper amounts of: Water Protein Fats Carbohydrates Vitamins Minerals Staff photo by Nancy Crombie.

3. Commercial pet foods...  Come in dry, semi-moist, canned  Mainly differ by amount of water  Labels must list ingredients in order of weight  Guaranteed analysis lists nutrients  Labels include feeding guidelines

4. "Complete and balanced" on the label means...  These dog foods must meet standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) By nutrient profile OR Feeding trial  Profiles revised in 1995 One profile for growth and reproduction Another profile for adult maintenance

5. Nutrition Standards  Maximum levels of intake of some nutrients have been established for the first time because of concern that overnutrition, rather than undernutrition, is a bigger problem with many pet foods today.  Standards include recommendations on protein, fat, fat soluble vitamins, water soluble vitamins and mineral content of foods.

6. Levels of Nutrients  Nutrients in tables are expressed on a “dry matter” (DM) basis.  On most pet food labels, the levels listed in the guaranteed analysis are expressed on an “as fed” basis.  To convert “as fed” to “dry matter” a simple conversion is necessary. If a dry food has 10% moisture it has 90% dry matter.

7. Example  A dog food has 10% moisture and 90% dry matter.  The label indicates that the protein level is 20%.  Divide the 20% protein by the 90% dry matter.  That yields 22% protein on a dry matter basis.  All of the nutrients of dog food can be compared this way.

8. AAFCO Recommended Nutrient Levels in Dog Food

9. Feeding guidelines  Look on the bag or can  Based on growth level and weight  Varies by activity level, metabolism, environment  Pups and pregnant or nursing families need more protein and calories  Large, fast-growing breeds need less per pound Staff photo by Nancy Crombie.

10. Activity  Divide into seven groups.  Each group will be responsible for teaching one of the following nutrients to the class: Protein Fat Minerals Vitamins Energy Carbohydrates Fiber