By Brent Mayabb, DVM

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To provide specialized nutrition for performance dogs, Royal Canin has developed a formula called Energy 4800. It is a diet designed for working and athletic dogs that is composed of 32% protein and 30% fat. It is made from high-quality ingredients to provide a superior nutrition for dogs involved in activities like endurance, hunting, field trials, herding, rescue, and police or military work. In addition to the normal nutritional needs of canine athletes, Energy 4800 addresses certain problems common to these types of dogs. The problems frequently related to their high level of performance are oxidative stress, digestive disturbances, and musculoskeletal issues.

In the performance animal, fat is the preferred energy source for endurance. Fat contains 2.25 times the energy of the equivalent amount of protein or carbohydrate. Studies have shown that feeding a high fat diet encourages fatty acid consumption by muscle tissue even before training begins. L-carnitine is an amino acid that allows the cells to efficiently utilize fat as an energy source. Energy 4800 has supplemental levels of L-carnitine to offset loss during exercise.

Endurance activities are associated with oxidative stress. Energy 4800 contains our unique combination of antioxidants that we call "Natural Defenses." Our blend of antioxidants has been shown to reduce oxidative damage associated with exercise, as well as improve immune response. We incorporate vitamins E & C, taurine, and lutein into the diet. Mannanoligosaccharide (MOS) helps to stimulate immunity as well.

Many canine athletes experience digestive disorders. Our nutritional solution is to reduce the carbohydrate level (>15% of ME) to improve ease of digestion. We also incorporate beet pulp, fructo-oligasaccharide (FOS), and psyllium that provide a mix of fermentable and nonfermentable fibers to help regulate motility and improve overall intestinal health.

Musculoskeletal problems occur at a higher rate in the performance dog. Increased protein results in a higher red blood cell count (more oxygen-carrying capacity), and studies indicate that higher protein levels are also associated with fewer injuries. Energy 4800 also has the optimal amount of calcium and phosphorus for bone strength. Finally, the diet has supplemental levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.

Today's high performance canine athletes need a high performance food. Royal Canin Energy 4800 meets that need. With nutrients designed to improve performance and endurance as well as antioxidants, L-carnitine, and glucosamine and chondroitin that combat the effects of strenuous exercise, Energy 4800 is the fuel for the performance dog's engine.