By Royal Canin Scientific Communications

Printable Version

Working and athletic dogs require high levels of energy in their diets because they expend many calories while engaged in performance activities. The environmental extremes of summer heat and winter cold also increase the energy needs of these dogs. During periods of exertion, the body will preferentially use the energy from the food for activity and deprive "non-essential" functions such as hair growth. One result of a diet with inadequate energy content is poor coat or overt hair loss.

To prevent this, these dogs should be fed a ration designed to support high levels of expenditure. Both the hair follicles and the skin are very metabolically active, and they consume a lot of energy. Dietary fat is an excellent source of energy, as it provides 2.25 times the amount of calories as the equivalent amount of protein or carbohydrate. Certain fats such as omega fatty acids also have a beneficial effect on the appearance and health of the coat and skin.

The stress of work can take a heavy toll on performance dogs. Poor coat quality is often the manifestation. By offering a diet with increased caloric content, we supply the necessary energy to maintain a healthy skin and coat while working.