Dogs have been faithful friends of human beings for more than 10,000 years. What are the digestive system and nutritional requirements of dogs?
But even if dogs have been in close contact with humans for a long time, their genes are still very primitive, which are 99% the same as those of ordinary gray wolves (dogs and wolves). This genetic relationship led the Smithsonian Institution to reclassify dogs from their own species (canines) as canine lupus. In other words, tundra wolf, plain gray wolf and pet dog all belong to the genetic species of canine lupus. They have obvious internal organs to digest meat. Like wolves, dogs are carnivores. In order to understand why dogs are classified as carnivores and which foods are most suitable for them, it is necessary to first understand the differences in visceral structure among carnivores, omnivores and vegetarians.
What are the main characteristics of the digestive system of carnivores?
The stomach of a carnivore is short, sour and simple. This digestive system can quickly digest animal fat and protein. Dogs have a strong ability to secrete hydrochloric acid, which can help digest and kill bacteria in carrion.
Their gastric acid pH can be maintained at 1-2 (4-5 for humans). There is no salivary amylase in the saliva of carnivores, and carbohydrates can only be digested by amylase secreted by pancreas. When dogs are fed as omnivores or vegetarians, the pancreas does a lot of work to digest carbohydrates. Sharp teeth of carnivores (designed to cut meat rather than grind plants) Carnivores have long sharp teeth, which are suitable for killing prey and tearing meat.
Sharp teeth and hinged mouth with vertical switch are best for catching prey, tearing meat and swallowing, rather than chewing and grinding grain. Triangular molars have uneven edges and cut objects smoothly like serrated blades. Carnivores don't chew food, because in order to prevent oral injury, the oral cavity can't secrete enzymes that decompose protein. So carnivores don't mix food with saliva, but swallow meat directly.
As far as the physiological structure of internal organs is concerned, dogs are simply domesticated wolves. Dogs need the same nutrition as their wild ancestors, and it is up to them to meet these nutritional needs to keep their best condition. For modern families, the best choice is professional dog food, which is rich in all the nutrients that dogs need.