The Macro Picture: Translating Nutrients into Clinical Dietary Decisions

This presentation provides veterinarians and veterinary technicians with practical guidance on macronutrient evaluation and clinical diet selection for dogs. Topics include an overview of macronutrients, methods of nutrient expression (dry matter, as-fed, metabolizable energy, energy density basis), and converting guaranteed analysis values to clinically relevant formats. Attendees will also learn how to apply targeted macronutrient modifications to support common disease states encountered in general practice. Clinical case studies are used to illustrate nutrition support planning for patients with common renal and gastrointestinal diseases. 

• Define macronutrients and explain their basic roles in canine nutrition
• Compare methods of nutrient expression (as-fed, dry matter, metabolizable energy, and energy density basis) and convert guaranteed analysis values from pet food labels to enable meaningful comparisons across products
• Apply nutrient modification guidelines to determine target macronutrient ranges—including protein, fat, and fiber—for common clinical conditions
• Develop initial nutrition support plans for patients with renal and gastrointestinal disease using available data to evaluate nutrient intake and guide diet recommendations