The Benefits of Vitamins in Dog Food

The Benefits of Vitamins In Your Dog's Food 

If you’ve ever read the ingredients on the back of your dog’s food you might have noticed a long list of vitamins. We know humans take vitamins and eat foods with beneficial vitamins, but what about our dogs? Are the vitamins found in dog food actually needed? Of course! Each type of vitamin plays a vital role in your dog’s health. Keep reading to find out how each vitamin benefits your furry friend!

Different Types

There are 2 different types of vitamins that you will find on the ingredients panel of your dog food. These are known as fat-soluble and water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins consist of vitamins A, E, and K. These vitamins are stored in the body for a longer period of time and shouldn’t be overly consumed. Water-soluble vitamins include vitamins C and B. These vitamins are stored in the body for a very small amount of time so they must be consumed daily. 

Fat-Soluble Vitamins 

Vitamin A

This vitamin is primarily stored inside the liver and sometimes in fat. Your dog is able to produce vitamin A on his/her own using carotenoids. These are the yellow, orange, and red pigments in fruits and vegetables. Vitamin A has many different benefits for your dog. It is a very important vitamin for growing puppies and helps the immune system function properly. Vitamin A also helps the body to generate cells for the lungs, hair, and gums. Vitamin A can be found in pumpkin, spinach, and carrots which are all safe for your dogs to eat in small to moderate quantities.

Vitamin E

This vitamin is a common name for a few different natural occurrences in food. These include; alpha, beta, gamma, and delta tocopherols. Alpha tocopherols can be easily absorbed by cells, making it the most important form of vitamin E. This powerful vitamin works as an antioxidant to protect the body's cells. It also helps maintain muscles and other tissues found within the body. Vitamin E can be found in broccoli, pumpkin, and carrots. 

Vitamin K 

Vitamin K is found in vegetables as vitamin K1. Your dog can create vitamin K2 inside his/her large intestine with the use of bacteria. Both vitamin K1 and K2 benefit your dog with the same effects. Vitamin K is needed for your dog to be able to clot blood. It is also essential to maintaining strong and healthy bones. This vitamin can be found in many green and leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

Vitamin B

There are a few different types of vitamin B, each type has a specific role to play. Vitamin B1 is essential for turning carbohydrates into energy. It also helps the heart maintain proper function. Vitamin B2 is needed so the body can create red blood cells and antibodies. Vitamin B3 maintains a proper supply of energy to the body while also producing fatty acids. All forms of vitamin B can be found in spinach, broccoli, and pumpkin. 

Vitamin C

Dogs are able to create vitamin C through glucose which helps them get their needed dose. This vitamin is essential for the immune system because it is a powerful antioxidant. It also helps the body absorb iron easily. Vitamin C can be found in broccoli and pumpkin. 

At The Pet Gourmet, we are thrilled to offer healthy and balanced meals! Check out our Grain-Free and Wheat Free Dehydrated Base Mixes which are full of whole food ingredients that provide vitamins straight from the source! Pick a protein from our selection of Freeze-Dried Meat Toppers and you will have an amazing, healthy meal that your dog will enjoy!