Is Fat A Good Source Of Energy For A Dog?

A dog’s metabolism relies primarily on fat for energy during rest and during exercise. A diet...

Last updated: July 31 2026.  Published 11 Aug 2023Author: Eureka Pet
Is Fat A Good Source Of Energy For A Dog?
Is Fat A Good Source Of Energy For A Dog?

The short answer is YES!

A dog’s metabolism relies primarily on fat for energy during rest and during exercise. A diet that is higher in fat helps to prime a dogs metabolism which is especially important to an exercising dog. Fats are highly digestible and are the first nutrients to be used as energy, ahead of both protein and carbohydrates. Fat is the most efficient form of energy for a dog and has so many other benefits for your furry mate!

Fats help promote a healthy skin and coat, maintain that felling of “fullness”, facilitate absorption of vitamins (A,D,E & K), regulate inflammation and, most importantly, makes food taste great! Unlike humans, dogs don’t have to worry about cholesterol and won’t end up with the same types of health issues humans can from eating a high-fat diet.

Fat is more energy dense than carbohydrates which is why Eureka has been formulated to be high in both proteins and fats. Our recipes deliver the essential building blocks to both grow and maintain muscle for peak physical performance.

"A diet that skimps on fat will contribute to a reduction in endurance and overall fitness. A visible effect in dogs that receive a diet lacking adequate fat is a dull, scruffy coat and flaky skin.”

Most dogs will actively seek out a diet that is high in fat.

"Specifically, dogs will seek a macronutrient profile equating to approximately 63% of their daily calorie intake from fat, 30% from protein and 7% from carbohydrate”

If you look at the ingredients for most commercial dog foods, between 30 to 70% are carbs. These are what we call “empty calories” & are typically added to food to reduce the overall cost of the food. Eureka air-dried dog food is fortified with quality proteins and fats and is boosted with superfoods such as green-lipped mussels resulting in a food with less than 10% carbs and zero nonsense!

Sources:

The Role Of Fat In Canine Nutrition (purinaproclub.com)Dogs prefer high-fat diets | WALTHAMAre Fats and Oils Good For Dogs?PetMD High Protein and Low Carb Dog Foods | LoveToKnow

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