Why track protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus?

Protein is the main “building material” of an animal’s body.

It is needed for:

• muscles
• skin
• coat
• organs
• the immune system
• tissue repair

The body uses protein to build new cells and repair damaged ones.

Why protein matters

If protein is too low:

• the dog loses muscle
• recovery is slower
• energy and activity drop
• coat quality worsens
• immunity may decline

Protein is especially important for:

• puppies
• active dogs
• underweight animals
• dogs recovering from illness

Excess protein is usually not a problem for a healthy dog – deficiency is far more dangerous.

Fat is the main energy source for dogs.

It helps:

• maintain weight
• provide concentrated calories
• absorb vitamins
• support skin and coat health

Fat also makes food tastier and more nutritious.

Why fat matters

If fat is too low:

• the dog may lack energy
• skin and coat condition may worsen
• weight gain is harder
• the dog tires more quickly

If fat is too high:

• weight may rise too quickly
• digestive strain increases
• dogs sensitive to fatty food may have problems

For many active and young dogs, a fairly high fat level in the diet is normal.

Calcium is needed for:

• bones
• teeth
• muscle function
• the nervous system
• normal growth

Calcium is especially critical for puppies and large breeds during growth.

Why calcium matters

Home-prepared diets often lack calcium. Meat is high in phosphorus but low in calcium, so a “meat only” diet is unbalanced.

Calcium deficiency can lead to:

• bone problems
• weakness
• growth issues
• joint problems

Too much calcium is also harmful, especially for large-breed puppies.

Phosphorus works together with calcium.

It is needed for:

• bones
• teeth
• cell energy
• metabolism

Meat products usually provide enough phosphorus – often more than enough.

Why phosphorus matters

The issue is usually not phosphorus itself, but the balance between calcium and phosphorus.

If phosphorus is too high compared with calcium:

• the body may draw calcium from bones
• skeletal development is disrupted
• risk of bone and joint problems rises

When calcium is too high relative to phosphorus:

• mineral balance is disrupted
• some elements are absorbed less well
• bone growth problems may appear
• especially in large-breed puppies

In puppies, excess calcium with low phosphorus is linked to:

• abnormal skeletal development
• deformities
• orthopedic problems

In adult dogs, a long-term strong imbalance is also undesirable:

• the body regulates mineral metabolism less well
• bone and joint problems are possible

So it is important to track not only calcium and phosphorus separately, but also their ratio in the diet.