The Importance of a Balanced Meal

The need for a balanced diet is hugely important, not just for physical health, but also for emotional wellbeing. In this blog we will explore the big picture when it comes to balanced nutrition to help keep your dog in tip top health.

‍Let’s Get Physical!

Well balanced and nutrient rich food supports a strong and resilient musculoskeletal system. It is important for dogs to have good muscle mass, and a strong framework of bones, ligaments, tendons, and tissue to reduce the impacts of injury, maximising strength and flexibility into older age.

A balanced meal will contain protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, in the appropriate ratios. The correct ratios of nutrients cannot be underestimated when it comes to health and wellbeing. When a dog consumes nutrients, their body will triage the distribution of these nutrients, directing them to the areas of the body most in need. When the supply runs out, there may be biological functions that simply go without the fuel they need to function optimally. Ensuring the nutrients are directed to the vital functions first, ensures short term health; but when there isn’t enough to go around, the body fails to perform so well in the long term.

A dog may have enough nutrients for their immediate needs, yet not enough to nourish the body in a way that slows down the ageing process, or that ensures a strong defence against disease. Essentially, it is important to provide good nutrition both for short term and long-term benefits.

It’s a Good Hair Day!

Not all dogs will have a flowing coat of glossy hair, like the supermodel of the dog world, the Afghan Hound - but each dog deserves every day to be a good hair day!

The secret to good hair, is healthy skin. A diet that contains a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, is extremely beneficial for healthy, nourished skin. Dry skin will lead to hair that has a tendency to split and leaves the coat looking dull and lack lustre. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids reduces skin irritations and builds resilience against seasonal changes in environmental conditions e.g. humidity and dry heat. The correct balance of nutrients will also help reduce the impact of skin irritations as the result of allergies.

It's All About the ‘Feels’!

A healthy digestive system influences more than just the digestion of food. Did you know the condition of your dog’s gut health also impacts their emotions and behaviour?

Serotonin is both a neurotransmitter and hormone that is produced in the gut, and contributes largely to feelings of happiness, whilst also helping regulate the internal body clock. The production of serotonin requires the presence of gut microbes which are nourished through a healthy and natural diet. Your dog’s mood, along with their emotional resiliency, are connected to their gut health. Just as stress affects the digestive system, the digestive system has a part to play in helping the body regulate stress levels.

Gut microbes also produce gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps control feelings of fear and anxiety.
As you can see, the connection between the gut and the brain means that a nutrient appropriate, balanced diet can also help stabilise emotions and may prevent, and resolve, problem behaviours.

The Only Constant is Change!

Finally, it is important to recognise that the nutritional requirements of your dog will change as they move through the different seasons of their life. A young puppy will have different requirements to an older dog; and a dog recovering from an injury will need different nutritional support compared to a healthy working dog in the prime of life.

Providing a balanced diet is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach, so remember to check in with your dog and assess how their needs may be changing.

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Claire Forsyth
Specialist Animal Kinesiologist B.Sc, Dip Kin

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About the author
‍Claire Forsyth is a Specialist Animal Kinesiologist and Canine Behaviourist from Perth. Claire has worked with dogs for the last 25 years and specialises in resolving behaviour problems using Kinesiology techniques to remove physiological, neurological and emotional stress.

Please note: Claire's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your veterinarian.

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