Micronutrients
Micronutrients don’t make up the bulk of your dog’s bowl — but they determine how well everything else functions.
Vitamins and minerals regulate immune response, bone development, muscle contraction, nerve signaling, detoxification pathways, and cellular repair. When they are balanced, the body runs efficiently. When they are not, symptoms often show up slowly and subtly.
This section breaks down individual micronutrients, what they do, where they’re found in fresh food, and how deficiencies or excesses can impact your dog’s health.
Understanding these nutrients allows you to build a diet intentionally — not accidentally.
About This Section
This micronutrient library is expanding.
If a nutrient is listed but not yet linked, the full breakdown is coming soon. If there’s one you’d like prioritized, leave a comment and I’ll move it up the queue.
Essential Minerals
Essential Vitamins
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Thiamine (B1)
- Riboflavin (B2)
- Niacin (B3)
- Pantothenic Acid (B5)
- Pyridoxine (B6)
- Biotin (B7)
- Folate (B9)
- Cobalamin (B12)
Essential Fatty Acids
- Linoleic Acid (LA) – Omega-6
- Arachidonic Acid (AA) – Omega-6
- Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA) – Omega-3 (plant-based precursor)
- Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) – Omega-3
- Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) – Omega-3
- Omega-3 : Omega-6 Ratio
References & Nutritional Standards
The information in this micronutrient section is guided by established canine nutrition standards and current veterinary research. Primary reference frameworks include:
- National Research Council (NRC), Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- AAFCO Canine Nutrient Profiles
- Peer-reviewed veterinary literature on mineral metabolism and nutrient balance
These posts are intended for educational purposes and are not a substitute for individualized veterinary assessment, particularly for dogs with medical conditions.