Fats are an important part of a dogs diet and should not be considered bad. Faats have a much higher conversion of energy per weight than either protein or carbohydrates. Dogs do not get hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis) like humans do and where as they can get high cholesterol it is caused by other factors than high fat intake. Fats provide energy for the dogs body processes and assists in maintaining health skin and coat.
There are many sources of fat that can be utilized effectively by dogs and include, lard, tallow, poultry fat, cottonseed oil, and hydrogenated vegetable oils. Fats to stay away from in pet foods are: fish oil, and hydrogenated coconut oil. AAFCO dog nutritional profiles are available online for you to check with.
Most dog foods contain more than the required amount of fat because the fats are a good source of energy and they increase palatability of the food. The most prevalent problem related to fat is over consumption and obesity. The problem with obesity is many fold but suffice it to say a dog that is obese will have many more physical problems and a shortened life span.
Diets that are low in fats and high in fiber are used regularly in weight loss control foods. Many times dogs on this type of diets have dull coats and dry skin. One option to correct this is to feed the dog a concentrated fatty acid supplement that is low in calories compared to the essential and beneficial fatty acids that is provides. Also read the dog food nutrition label for guidance.
Remember, feeding your dog is just like every thing else. Use common sense and keep every thing in moderation. Control your dogs weight by watching and weighing him and adjust the amount of food according to his ability to maintain his weight at that volume of food. Also use a maximum nutrition dog food and watch his coat and skin for good health.
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