Discover how specific nutritional components work at the molecular level to enhance your canine companion’s overall well-being.

An in-depth analysis of how each ingredient in your dog’s diet impacts their immune system, digestive health, and overall vitality, backed by the most advanced nutritional science.

Canine nutrition has evolved dramatically in recent decades, moving from simply feeding to satisfy hunger to strategically nourishing every system in the canine organism. This evolution is driven by scientific advances that have allowed us to understand how each nutrient interacts at the cellular and molecular level in our companions’ bodies. Today we’ll explore the fascinating science behind key ingredients and how selecting optimal nutrition can transform your dog’s quality of life.

“True canine nutrition isn’t just about the ingredients you can read on the label, but how these ingredients work in synergy at the molecular level to enhance every physiological system in your dog.”

1. Proteins: The structural foundation

Proteins are not simply a percentage on the food label. Quality, digestibility, and amino acid profile determine their true nutritional value. Dogs require 22 amino acids for their physiological functions, 10 of which must be obtained through diet.

Scientific research shows that animal protein sources such as chicken, lamb, and salmon offer more complete and bioavailable amino acid profiles than plant proteins. This is crucial because amino acids are the building blocks for:

• Tissue repair and muscle growth
• Production of digestive enzymes
• Synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters
• Optimal immune function

At Nupec, we select high-digestibility protein sources (above 90%) to ensure that your dog truly benefits from the nutrients consumed.

2. Fats: More than energy

Essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6, are potent nutrients with effects that go far beyond providing energy:

• DHA and EPA (omega-3 fatty acids) reduce chronic inflammation, promote brain development in puppies, and maintain cognitive health in senior dogs
• Linoleic acid (omega-6) maintains the integrity of the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and protecting against pathogens
• The ideal ratio between omega-6

(between 5:1 and 10:1) optimizes their anti-inflammatory benefits

Studies show that dogs fed with adequate proportions of essential fatty acids show lower incidence of dermatological problems, better recovery after exercise, and a more modulated immune response.

3. Carbohydrates: Beyond controversy

Although dogs don’t have specific carbohydrate requirements, these nutrients, when high-quality and properly processed, provide:

• Gradual release energy for sustained activities
• Soluble and insoluble fiber for intestinal microbiome health
• Prebiotics such as FOS and MOS that feed beneficial bacteria
• Phytochemicals and antioxidants in the case of fruits and vegetables

Contrary to some myths, complex carbohydrates like quinoa, sweet potato, and peas are highly digestible by modern dogs thanks to their evolutionary adaptation to human diet and proper processing.

4. Micronutrients: The silent directors

Vitamins and minerals, although present in minimal amounts, orchestrate fundamental metabolic processes:

• Zinc: Vital for more than 300 enzymes, participates in protein synthesis, immune function, and skin health
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant that protects cells against oxidative damage, especially important in active and senior dogs
• Selenium: Works synergistically with vitamin E and is essential for thyroid function
• Calcium and phosphorus: Not only form bones and teeth, but the ratio between them (ideally 1.2:1) is critical for proper absorption

The chemical form in which these nutrients are presented determines their bioavailability. For example, chelated minerals (bound to organic molecules) have up to 4 times higher absorption than inorganic minerals.

5. Functional additives: The frontier of nutrition

Modern nutritional science has identified compounds that, although not essential nutrients, offer significant benefits:

• Glucosamine and chondroitin: Support joint health by providing building blocks for cartilage
• L-carnitine: Optimizes fat metabolism, facilitating their conversion into energy
• Taurine: Although not essential for dogs, its supplementation benefits cardiac and visual function
• Prebiotics and probiotics: Modulate intestinal microbiota, improving immunity and digestion

Modern canine nutrition transcends the simple act of feeding. It’s a meticulous science that considers each molecule and its effect on the complex biological systems of our companions. Each selected ingredient should have a specific purpose, backed by scientific research, and work in harmony with other components to maximize health and longevity.

When selecting food for your dog, the true value lies not in marketing or trends, but in the quality, bioavailability, and balance of nutrients, as well as the scientific evidence that supports the formulation.

At Nupec, our Conscious Scientific Nutrition philosophy is reflected in every formula we develop. Our team of scientists and veterinarians meticulously selects each ingredient not only for its individual properties but for how it interacts with other components to create synergistic and complete nutrition.

Discover how our line of super premium dog foods, such as Nupec Adult Maintenance and Nupec Advanced Mobility, incorporates these advanced scientific principles to visibly transform your canine companion’s health from the inside out.