* Protein: 20% minimum.

Dogs require protein in their diet for several essential reasons:

1. Building and repairing tissues: Protein is necessary for building, repairing, and maintaining tissues in a dog's body, including muscles, bones, skin, and hair.

2. Producing enzymes and hormones: Proteins are used to produce enzymes, hormones, and other biomolecules essential for various bodily functions.

3. Maintaining healthy skin and coat: Protein helps maintain a dog's skin and coat health, reducing the risk of skin problems and promoting a shiny, healthy coat.

4. Supporting immune function: Protein is necessary for the production of antibodies, which help fight off infections and diseases.

5. Providing energy: While carbohydrates and fats are primary energy sources, protein can also be used as an energy source when needed.

6. Maintaining muscle mass: Adequate protein intake helps maintain muscle mass, which is essential for a dog's overall health and mobility.

The ideal protein intake for dogs varies based on factors like age, breed, size, and activity level. Generally, dogs require a minimum of 18% protein in their diet. However, some dogs, such as puppies, pregnant dogs, or dogs with certain medical conditions, may require more protein.
 

* Crude fat: 45% minimum.

Crude fat is an essential nutrient for dogs, providing several important functions:

1. Energy source: Fat is a concentrated source of energy for dogs, helping to support their daily activities and maintain their weight.

2. Skin and coat health: Crude fat helps maintain a dog's skin and coat health, reducing the risk of skin problems and promoting a shiny, healthy coat.

3. Absorption of vitamins: Fat is necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) in a dog's diet.

1. Brain function and development: DHA and EPA, two essential fatty acids found in crude fat, support brain function and development in dogs.

2. Inflammation reduction: Omega-3 fatty acids in crude fat help reduce inflammation in dogs, which can alleviate conditions like arthritis and skin allergies.

3. Maintaining healthy gut bacteria: Crude fat helps maintain a balanced gut microbiome, supporting a dog's overall digestive health.

The ideal crude fat content in a dog's diet varies based on factors like age, breed, size, and activity level. Generally, dogs require a minimum of 10% crude fat in their diet. However, some dogs, such as puppies or high-performance dogs, may require more fat.

* Moisture 100% maximum.

* Crude Fibre: 45% minimum.

Crude fiber is an essential component of a dog's diet, providing several important benefits:

1. Promotes digestive health: Crude fiber helps regulate bowel movements, preventing constipation and diarrhea.

2. Supports healthy gut bacteria: Fiber acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in the gut, promoting a balanced gut microbiome.

3. Helps with satiety and weight management: Fiber-rich foods can help dogs feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

4. Supports healthy blood sugar levels: Soluble fiber can slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, helping regulate blood sugar levels.

5. Maintains healthy gut motility: Fiber helps move food through the digestive system, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal disorders.

6. Reduces the risk of certain health issues: Adequate fiber intake has been linked to a reduced risk of conditions like obesity, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

The ideal crude fiber content in a dog's diet varies, but generally falls between 2-4% on a dry matter basis. However, some dogs may require more or less fiber depending on factors like age, breed, size, and health status.

* Crude Ash: 80% maximum.

Crude ash is not a specific nutrient, but rather a measure of the mineral content in a dog's food. It represents the residue left after a food sample is burned at high temperatures, leaving behind the inorganic minerals.

Dogs require minerals, which are included in the crude ash content, for various bodily functions, such as:

1. Maintaining healthy bones and teeth: Minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are essential for bone growth and development.

2. Regulating fluid balance and blood pressure: Minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride help maintain proper fluid balance and blood pressure.

3. Supporting immune function: Minerals like zinc, iron, and copper play important roles in immune system function.

4. Enabling enzyme function: Minerals like zinc, magnesium, and manganese act as cofactors for enzymes, supporting various metabolic processes.

While crude ash itself is not a specific nutrient, the minerals it represents are essential for a dog's overall health and well-being. A balanced and complete dog food should provide adequate levels of these minerals. 

* 87% Digestible.