Nutrient Classes
The Nutrient Class category organizes nutrients into subgroups within macronutrients and micronutrients, such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. These classes define the functional roles nutrients play in a dog’s health, from providing energy and supporting tissue repair to regulating inflammation and hormone production.
| search_title | Featured Image | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Minerals |  Minerals |
Minerals Minerals are inorganic elements that play critical roles in bone health, nerve function, and enzyme activity. They are classified as essential, non-essential, or conditionally essential based on dietary needs. |
| Phytochemicals | Phytochemicals |
Phytochemicals Phytochemicals are naturally occurring, bioactive compounds produced by plants that provide a wide range of health benefits beyond basic nutrition. While they are not classified as essential nutrients like vitamins or minerals, phytochemicals play an important role in promoting overall vitality and addressing specific health concerns in dogs. Their chemical diversity and biological effects make them indispensable in functional nutrition for dogs, especially for managing inflammation, improving digestion, and supporting immune health. |
| Vitamins | Vitamins |
Vitamins Vitamins are organic compounds required in small amounts for essential bodily functions, including metabolism, immune support, and cell repair. Dogs obtain vitamins from food, with some synthesized internally. |
| Fats | Fats |
Fats Fat is an essential macronutrient that provides concentrated energy, supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and plays a key role in inflammation regulation and hormone production. |
| Carbohydrates | Carbohydrates |
Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients (along with protein and fat) that provide the body with energy. Unlike protein and fat, dogs do not have an essential dietary requirement for carbohydrates, yet most dog foods include them for both nutritional and practical reasons. Ingredients such as grains, legumes, and root vegetables supply starch that contributes calories and helps form the structure and texture of kibble. The word “carbohydrate” describes a wide range of compounds that act differently in the body: simple sugars and starches serve mainly as energy sources, while fibers, beta-glucans from mushrooms or yeast, and prebiotics support healthy digestion, microbial balance, and immune function. |
| Protein | Protein |
Protein Protein is an essential macronutrient composed of amino acids that are critical for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall growth and metabolism. |